Qhawe Mazaleni
UNICEF Champion for Children, Miss South Africa titleholder and Empower Youth Africa Ambassador
Qhawekazi Mazaleni is a South African speech-language therapist, children's book author, literacy advocate and also UNICEF Champion for Children, Miss South Africa titleholder and Empower Youth Africa Ambassador, whose work is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, communicate and realise their full potential.
A graduate of Stellenbosch University, Qhawekazi's professional journey has been shaped by her experience working with children and families in South Africa's public healthcare system, where she witnessed firsthand the barriers that prevent many children from accessing essential developmental and educational support.
Her commitment to inclusive education and literacy led her to establish Literacy Roots, a company dedicated to making children's literature more accessible, representative and inclusive.
She is also the author of Amasele Amdaka, a children’s book written for young readers, including children with learning challenges. Through colourful storytelling, the book introduces young readers to foundational concepts such as colours and numbers, while nurturing a love for reading and celebrating diversity and inclusion.
In her role as a UNICEF Champion for Children, Qhawe’s focus is on every child’s right to quality education, particularly including children living in underserved communities, with disabilities and learning challenges.
"Anyone who knows me knows just how passionate I am about children’s wellbeing, particularly education in the early years of childhood. Those early years matter so much. They lay the foundation for everything that comes next. But we also know that not every child gets the same opportunities. And I believe that together, we can help change that."
