Mmatshepho Ngwenya CA(SA), 35

Finalist: Transformative Leader | SAICA Top-35-Under-35 Awards 2025

Mmatshepho Ngwenya is a Chartered Accountant, academic, and mentor whose leadership is transforming the accounting profession through education, equity, and excellence. At 35, she serves as a Senior Lecturer in Taxation, Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) Degree Course Coordinator, and Thuthuka Programme Coordinator at the University of Johannesburg, and in these roles, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring Chartered Accountants.

Mmatshepho’s journey is rooted in a passion for education and transformation. She holds a Master’s degree in South African and International Taxation, and her career spans academia, public service, and professional development. Her leadership is defined by innovation, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to student success.

As a lecturer, she facilitates courses in Taxation for second-year BAcc (CA Stream), BCom Accounting and BCom Accounting Online students, designing assessments, delivering lectures, and mentoring learners. Her teaching philosophy centres on knowledge sharing, high performance, and creating inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive.

In her role as Thuthuka Programme Coordinator, Mmatshepho ensures the smooth onboarding and holistic support of bursary recipients. She liaises between SAICA and UJ, manages academic trainees and administrators, and oversees budgeting, reporting, and performance tracking. Her work ensures that students receive not only financial support, but also life skills, mentorship, and academic guidance — laying the foundation for long-term success.

She also serves as Coordinator of the BAcc Degree (CA Stream) where she provides strategic input on key degree development, student performance, and stakeholder engagement. Her leadership helps align the degree with university and SAICA standards, ensuring its relevance and impact.

Mmatshepho’s influence extends into professional development. She is a SAICA marker for both the Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC) and the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) and contributes to the APT Professional Programme as a marker and observer. Her work helps uphold the integrity of the profession and supports candidates in achieving their designations.

Her career began at the South African Revenue Service (SARS), where she specialised in Transfer Pricing Compliance Risk. She reviewed complex cross-border transactions, assessed tax risks, and aligned reports with OECD guidelines and BEPS action plans. Her work protected South Africa’s tax base and contributed to global compliance standards.

Mmatshepho completed her articles at SARS, focusing on mining sector audits, VAT, PAYE, and personal income tax. She was seconded to the Auditor General of South Africa, where she conducted financial statement audits and internal control testing — gaining exposure to governance and oversight in the public sector.

Her leadership is grounded in values of growth, transformation, and service. She mentors students in her personal capacity and through Thuthuka, and is known for her people skills, innovation, and ability to navigate team dynamics with empathy and clarity.

Mmatshepho Ngwenya leads with purpose and precision. Her work exemplifies the spirit of a Transformative Leader — one who uplifts others, strengthens systems, and builds a profession that reflects the diversity and excellence of South Africa.