Koleka Sofuthe is the founder of the Qiqa-Mntwana Project in Crossroads, Cape Town. With qualifications in Early Childhood Development and Social Auxiliary Work, she started the project in 2016 to create a safe, supportive space for girls, later expanding it to include both girls and boys aged 9 to 18.
Today, the project supports over 100 children, providing emotional, physical, and financial care. Some live with Koleka due to family violence, and many affectionately call her “Mama.” Her mission is to ensure children stay in school, have enough to eat, and grow into empowered young adults—several of whom are now studying or working.
In 2018, she was nominated as a local hero for her work. Koleka dreams of expanding the project and creating skills-based job opportunities for youth.