Dr. Nomvuselelo Mvusy Songelwa

Personal Info

Dr. Nomvuselelo Songelwa, affectionately known as Coach uMalusi, is a leadership strategist and executive coach who bridges ancestral wisdom with modern executive insight. With a formative background as a rural cattle herder, their leadership philosophy is grounded in an intuitive and rooted style that challenges traditional corporate hierarchies.

As a respected voice in transformative leadership, Dr. Songelwa brings over 30 years of leadership experience across conservation, and tourism industry in South Africa, including a tenure as CEO. Founder of SkofNom Leadership & Coaching, specializing in conscious, values-driven leadership that integrates African identity with emotional intelligence.

Dr. Songelwa is the architect of the H.E.R.D. L.E.A.D.E.R. framework, a soulful, empathetic methodology derived from indigenous knowledge systems. This framework moves organizations toward harmony, empathy, resilience, and dignity, offering a powerful alternative to control-based management.

A prolific Conversation Catalyst, she is the author of three books:

• Lead Like a Cattleherder: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leadership; , a practical guide" to authentic leadership.>/li>
• Lipstick Chronicles: The Warfare of Inclusion, which explores "women’s leadership, visibility, and voice".
• Life Lessons of a Cattleherder: Reflections from the Boardroom: weaving her inspiring life story of resilience

Dr Songelwa is also the visionary behind the Lipstick Chronicles movement and an anchor host on VukaOnline Radio, where she facilitates intergenerational dialogue for women on purpose, culture, and leadership. A certified coach, a speaker and facilitator, Dr. Songelwa empowers leaders to lead with presence—not just position.

Beyond the boardroom, Dr. Songelwa is at the forefront of a monumental strategic shift in conservation. She currently leads Social Cohesion within South African National Parks (SANParks) as the organization pivots toward a new trajectory of Inclusive Conservation. Her work is rooted in the principles of social ecology—dissolving the rigid boundaries of protected areas to foster a collaborative, partnership-driven, and inclusive ecosystem. By weaving together traditional leadership and ecological interconnectedness, she ensures that conservation is not just about the land, but about the people and the collective dignity of the landscapes they share.