By Mohau Seleka
Lwandile Cyril Mashele, a 24-year-old from Tonga in Mpumalanga, is leveraging his Bachelor’s in Development Planning and Management to lead impactful community projects. As Project Manager of the HydroHope initiative, he’s dedicated to sustainable development and local empowerment.
Oiginally from Tonga in the Nkomazi Local Municipality, Lwandile Cyril Mashele, is not your average graduate. At 24, he’s already made a name for himself in the field of Development Planning and Management.
“My journey is about using the knowledge I’ve gained to create real, lasting change,” says Mashele. From high school class representative to Project Manager for the HydroHope initiative, he embodies determination and purpose in community development.
Mashele’s academic path began at the University of Limpopo in 2021, where he completed his Bachelor’s in Development Planning and Management on time. He didn’t stop there, he obtained an Honours degree in 2024, finishing it in record time.
Turning knowlege into impact, the hydro manager shaping sustainable change through developmnt planning. Photo by: Mohau Seleka
“Challenges are opportunities for growth,” he reflects on his academic journey. He demonstrated leadership early on, facilitating a partnership between the Department of Development Planning and Management and Vhembe District, enabling students to gain essential in-service training.
Currently pursuing his Master’s degree with a CETA bursary, Lwandile’s goal is to drive sustainable community development. He’s leading HydroHope, a project focused on infrastructure improvements and job creation. “HydroHope addresses local needs through sustainable projects,” he explains.
Beyond academics and his professional role, Mashele is also involved in youth empowerment and community outreach, including serving as program director for a local school event and participating in the 2024 UL Convocation.
His focus remains on job creation, infrastructure improvement, and empowering local businesses. By collaborating with local governments and private stakeholders, as he hopes to make a significant impact on the communities he serves.
Reflecting on his experiences, Mashele says, “Your network is your net worth.” He urges others to build meaningful relationships, stay resilient, and never underestimate the power of community-driven change. For him, success is about uplifting the entire community.
