Biography

Maria Thoko Msimango is a 26-year-old young woman from Ekulindeni (Kromdraai), a rural community in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Growing up in a rural environment has given her first-hand understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by underserved communities and inspired her passion for rural development and community empowerment.

Maria holds a Degree in Development Studies, which has equipped her with knowledge of community development, social change, youth empowerment, and participatory approaches. She is passionate about supporting communities to identify their own priorities and develop sustainable solutions to local challenges.

She has gained valuable experience as an Education Assistant, she also volunteered to support Grade 12 learners. This role strengthened her communication, mentorship, leadership, teamwork, and interpersonal skills. She also worked as a Cashier at Shoprite Canary Walk, developing strong customer service, teamwork, responsibility, and communication skills.
Rooted in the values of Ubuntu, Maria is passionate about education, youth empowerment, and community-driven development. She is eager to serve as a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, where she hopes to live alongside a rural community, listen and learn from community members, and work collaboratively to support sustainable, community-led initiatives.

Through CorpsAfrica, Maria hopes to contribute positively while growing personally and professionally as a community development practitioner and leader.