Sow The Seeds of Possibility,
Harvest a Future of Impact.

Jala Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to developing and nurturing entrepreneurship among South African youth, with a strong focus on high school learners, tertiary students, and young entrepreneurs from previously disadvantaged communities.
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A Brief History

Our Story

Jala Foundation is a registered Non-Profit Organisation founded in 2018 by Lebona Moleli, a seasoned entrepreneur. Our purpose is to develop and nurture entrepreneurship among South African youth.

“Jala” means to plant a seed. We believe every young person has potential. With the right guidance and support, that potential can grow into leadership, innovation, and meaningful livelihoods. We plant seeds of entrepreneurship early—so learners can build futures rooted in possibility.

Who We Are

Jala Foundation is a registered Non-Profit Organisation founded in 2018 to encourage and inspire entrepreneurship among South African youth. We believe that when young people are equipped with the right skills, mentorship, and exposure, they can create opportunities—not only for themselves, but for their communities too.
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Our Vision
To be the platform of youth entrepreneurship in South Africa.
Our Mission
To encourage and inspire entrepreneurship to youth from previously disadvantaged communities through our innovative programmes.
Our Values
Integrity – Doing what is right, even when no one is watching
Respect – Honouring people, communities, and diverse experiences
Knowledge – Building skills and confidence through learning
Ubuntu – Growing together through shared responsibility and care

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Dr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

Our Programmes

What We Do


Our foundation runs three key programmes designed to educate, inspire, and support the youth- especially those with potential and passion but limited resources.

Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp and Masterclass

A week-long entrepreneurship bootcamp for high school learners, tertiary learners, and young entrepreneurs during school holidays. Learners receive training in entrepreneurship and business planning, visit businesses owned by entrepreneurs, and develop a business project to pitch to a panel of judges. Entrepreneurship masterclass workshops are also conducted for young entrepreneurs.

Adopt A Learner

We provide academic and financial support to high school learners from previously disadvantaged schools to help them complete matric. Learners also receive mentorship throughout the year to strengthen confidence, performance, and long-term planning.

Workplace Exposure

Selected learners spend a week at the workplace of a successful entrepreneur. This real-world exposure helps learners understand entrepreneurship in practice and inspires them to pursue business ownership after school.

Help Us Create The Next Generation Of Entrepreneurs

Your support makes it possible for learners to access training, mentorship, exposure, and educational assistance. Whether you are an individual, business, or organisation—there is a role you can play in building youth entrepreneurship.
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Our Team

Jala Foundation is guided by experienced leaders who bring decades of professional and entrepreneurial expertise. Our directors are committed to empowering young people and building practical solutions that help communities thrive.

Lebona Moleli

Founder & Director

Lebona Moleli is a seasoned entrepreneur with 17 years’ experience in senior managerial positions in the corporate world before venturing into entrepreneurship. He is the founder of The Marketing Kraal (a media company), Lesaka Marketing (a marketing consultancy), Mohope Brewing company, and Lebona Investments.

Esther Motlafi

Director

Esther Motlafi is an experienced corporate executive with a demonstrated history of working in the banking industry. She spent 25 years in banking before venturing into entrepreneurship. She is the founder of Ifaltom Enterprises and a director at Business Doctors South Africa.

William Masehla

Director

William Masehla has 22 years of management experience gained in the financial services industry. He is the founder and director of Tsamala Consulting Services, established in 2002. He holds shareholding in numerous businesses in logistics, financial services, and tourism.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you. Whether you want to partner with us, support a learner, host workplace exposure, or learn more about our programmes—reach out and we’ll respond as soon as possible.