Let's get to know Luba Nyati

How would you describe yourself in a few words?

Luba is a very simple girl, a daughter, a mother to the most amazing son, a sister, a friend. Just your average Ndebele girl. I am a hard working individual who isn’t afraid to face a challenge. I would describe myself as an honest person, an inquisitive soul, a tea lover who definitely needs at least 3 cups to survive the day!

Could you tell us about your background and how it has prepared you for this role?

When people continue to say the Lord ordains your steps, I am a testament to that exact thing. Working in the NGO/NPO Sector was never in the pipeline for me. Growing up I had the typical girl dream of being an air hostess and seeing so many different places (that quickly died with the revelation that heights are not my best friend), then a corporate girl with heels and a pencil skirt ??….. I worked for an events company while in varsity and continued to do events and marketing gigs, until 2015 when I stumbled on an advert for fundraisers for Doctors Without Borders (MSFSA) and that’s how I started in the NGO sector. I worked my way up, learning everything I could about fund raising and how the smallest of gestures is the biggest blessing to someone, and my passion grew from there. I have been very blessed to work with amazing women who have lead me, taught me, held my hand and lifted me up throughout my journey.

What about the National Fundraising & Marketing Manager role appealed to you?

Fundraising and marketing is definitely one of those functions in an NGO/NPO that is a pillar of the organization. It offers the opportunity to directly contribute to making a positive impact in the lives of the beneficiaries we serve. Being able to secure the necessary financial resources to enable us to implement the programmes and services we provide, I would have played a part in addressing the critical social challenges and improving the lives of vulnerable communities. The role combines strategic thinking, relationship building, and gives me the chance to build meaningful relationships with donors who share the organizations mission which is incredibly rewarding. The joy on peoples faces after being helped by the teams, the little smile on the children’s faces makes everything a whole lot more rewarding and brings a smile to my face.

What motivates and inspires you in your life and career?

My drive for doing better and providing for my family is what drives me. I think above all else a sense of knowing that I get to wake up and do something that can help someone else better their life, overcome challenges and be able to feed or take care of their family will always be the best part for me. I have come to realize over the years that although the great big gestures are always a high, the little things that you do on a daily basis are what bring great joy, rewards and fulfilment.

What is your vision for MES and for this role?

I would like to build authentic relationships with our donors and partners, translating the organizations mission into resonant campaigns, and optimising fundraising strategies to secure long term funding and financial stability while amplifying the organization and its mission. I would love to get us to a point of fostering a culture of philanthropy that empowers communities, creating a powerful brand identity while generating the necessary resources to achieve lasting? social change in the communities we serve.

What message do you have for the MES donors and supporters, or potential supporters?

To our donors : THANK YOU!!!! Your support is the heartbeat of our mission. Every contribution, no matter the size empowers us to change the heart of the cities and communities we serve. By partnering with us you are not just giving, but investing in a brighter future, you’re allowing us to create lasting change by proving essential services, building stronger communities and empowering us to provide tangible impact in the lives of those we serve. Together we will be able to build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The MES team is extremely happy to have you onboard, Luba!