Meet our Board of Directors
At the helm of One Life Foundation, a dedicated team of professionals stands united in their commitment to transformative change. Our visionary directors bring a wealth of expertise, spanning diverse industries and backgrounds. With seasoned leaders driving the Foundation forward, we are guided by a collective passion for community development, a heart for the marginalized, and a strategic vision that shapes impactful initiatives. Meet the driving force behind One Life Foundation—leaders who not only envision change but actively lead us towards a future where lives are transformed, and communities are enriched
JAY MANNIKAM- CEO
Jay Mannikam, our dynamic CEO, is a highly qualified and passionate leader with a diverse background. He holds a BA Degree from Durban Westville, an HDE from Unisa, and a Sport Management qualification from Embury College. Additionally, Jay has earned Honours in Senior Management from UKZN and completed Honours in MAP at Wits.
With a solid foundation as an educator for 7 years in the Department of Education, Jay transitioned to a remarkable 18-year tenure, ultimately resigning as Acting Director at the Department of Sport and Recreation. He has also served as an educator at the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport.
Four years ago, Jay responded to a higher calling and resigned from his position to devote himself to full-time ministry. As a Pastor at One Life Church, Jay brings a spiritual dimension to his leadership role, aligning his work with his deep commitment to sharing the gospel.
Jay’s life scripture, “Philippians 4:13,” reflects his unwavering faith and determination. His heart for the poor and needy, coupled with a genuine love for success stories, propels him to steer One Life Foundation towards impactful and transformative initiatives. Under his visionary leadership, the Foundation continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.
RON LANGFORD - CHAIRPERSON
Ron Langford, our esteemed Chairperson, is a seasoned mining and metals executive with an illustrious career spanning 20 years in various roles and companies across multiple commodities. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of South Africa and a postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from the University of Wales, Ron’s academic prowess complements his extensive industry experience.
As an accomplished Finance Executive and Business Leader, Ron has showcased his expertise in Finance, Risk Management, Strategy, Business Development, and Marketing/Commercial areas. His professional journey has been primarily in the Mining & Metals Industry, with notable contributions to the Manufacturing Industry.
Over the past two decades, Ron has held both Executive and Non-Executive fiduciary responsibilities, serving on multiple Boards of Directors, Risk, and Audit Committees for subsidiaries of prominent global Mining companies, including South32, BHP Billiton, Lonmin, and Norilsk Nickel.
Currently serving as the Chairman of the One Life Foundation since January 2021 (previously a Director from January 2019), Ron also holds the position of Chairman at Integrity Health. This private company, established two years ago, focuses on making private healthcare more accessible to low-income workers, showcasing Ron’s commitment to impactful initiatives beyond his role at One Life Foundation.
DR. MELBA NZIMANDE
Dr. Melba Nzimande, a distinguished Marketing professional, brings a wealth of expertise to One Life Foundation with a Doctorate Degree focused on Communications and Media Studies from The University of KwaZulu-Natal. With over 16 years of hands-on experience, Melba has excelled in Marketing, Design, Stakeholder Management, Communications, and Public Relations for both local and international brands.
Her forte lies in strategy and policy development, and she has recently demonstrated her commitment to academia by publishing a journal article. Melba’s passion extends beyond her professional accomplishments; she is deeply dedicated to improving the livelihoods of local communities through skills development, with a particular emphasis on the growth and empowerment of women and children.
In her role as a Board Member, Melba is poised to contribute significantly to the Foundation’s mission. Her areas of expertise, including social media management, web management, events, and communications, align seamlessly with her commitment to making a positive impact. With her strategic mindset and passion for community development, Melba is a valuable asset to the Foundation, driving transformative change in the lives of those we serve.
ZWELIHLE SOKHELA
IAN OLIVER
Ian Oliver is a seasoned legal professional who has significantly influenced the legal landscape in Pietermaritzburg since 2001. As the director of Oliver Attorneys, his expertise primarily revolves around civil litigation. Beyond his legal pursuits, Ian has dedicated a substantial portion of his life to One Life Church, where he has been a member of the leadership team since 2011. Presently, he serves as the site captain of the One Life Church Nottingham Road site.
In his personal life, Ian finds joy in his marriage to Leeaan, and together, they nurture a loving family with three children. Ian’s commitment extends beyond his legal and spiritual endeavors; he has served as a trustee of the One Life Foundation since its inception, demonstrating a profound dedication to the mission of changing lives one person at a time.
His multifaceted contributions reflect a man deeply committed to justice, faith in Jesus Christ, and the betterment of the community.