Penny Lebyane appointed head of communication at Collen Mashawana Foundation

The Collen Mashawana Foundation (CMF) has announced the appointment of acclaimed media personality and broadcaster Penny Lebyane as its new Head of Communication, effective immediately.

In her new role, Lebyane will serve as the primary public voice of the Foundation, providing strategic leadership to its communications team and strengthening relationships with partners and stakeholders. Her mandate includes shaping and articulating CMF’s vision as the organisation enters a new phase of growth in 2026 and beyond.

Lebyane is no stranger to the Foundation. A long-standing supporter and trusted ally since CMF’s inception 14 years ago, her appointment formalises a relationship rooted in shared values and commitment to social justice. She steps into the role of Foundation Champion, bringing her extensive media platform and advocacy experience to support the work of CMF founder and chairman, Dr Collen Mashawana, alongside the organisation’s national volunteer network.

“I am deeply honoured and moved to formalise my long-standing relationship with CMF,” Lebyane said. “For over a decade, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative work this Foundation does in restoring dignity and hope to the elderly, as well as orphaned and vulnerable children. To now lead the charge in telling these powerful stories and amplifying our advocacy is not just a job, but a calling.”

Her appointment comes as the Foundation prepares to mark its 14th anniversary, a milestone that will be accompanied by the launch of strategic plans to expand its social impact and advocacy footprint across South Africa and beyond. CMF said Lebyane’s media acumen, stakeholder engagement expertise and passion for social causes will be central to driving this next phase of growth and international awareness.

Dr Mashawana welcomed the appointment, describing it as a “homecoming”.

“Penny has been part of the CMF family from the very beginning and her heart has always been aligned with our mission,” he said. “Her credibility, communication prowess and genuine compassion make her the ideal person to steward our public engagement. As we look to expand our reach across Africa, there is no one better to ensure our message of love, care and social justice resonates clearly.”

Lebyane is a multi-award-winning radio and television presenter, producer and health activist with more than two decades of experience in the South African media landscape. She is widely respected for her intelligent, compassionate and engaging approach to issues of public and social importance.

Established in 2012, the Collen Mashawana Foundation is a non-profit organisation focused on restoring dignity to marginalised communities, with a core emphasis on the elderly, people living with disabilities, and orphaned and vulnerable children. Through initiatives in housing, water and food security, education, job creation, psychosocial services and advocacy, the Foundation has impacted millions of lives across the country.