Tsholofelo Thobakgale CA(SA), 34

Finalist: Wellness Advocate | SAICA Top-35-Under-35 Awards 2025

Tsholofelo Muriel Thobakgale is a Chartered Accountant and newly Registered Auditor whose career at the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. At just 34, she has emerged as a transformative force in the public sector audit space—combining technical excellence, strategic foresight, and a deep commitment to wellness and inclusivity.

Tsholofelo has consistently demonstrated academic and professional excellence. She successfully completed SAICA’s ITC and APC assessments and has received multiple accolades for her achievements. Her technical expertise spans IFRS, GRAP, ISAs, and tax legislation, and she has led high-impact audits for major state-owned entities including the SABC, ICASA, Rand Water, TCTA, and SAA Technical.

But Tsholofelo’s impact goes far beyond audit execution. As a Senior Audit Manager, she plays a strategic role in budgeting, stakeholder engagement, and talent development. Her leadership is marked by a rare blend of analytical precision and emotional intelligence—qualities that have made her a trusted advisor and mentor within AGSA.

In her role as Goal Champion for Culture and Wellness, Tsholofelo has pioneered initiatives that embed mental health, inclusivity, and recognition into the organisation’s DNA.

Her leadership in the establishment of business unit’s Women’s Forum and dedicated support in creating a complementary Men’s Forum were strategic acts of advocacy that brought balance, allyship, and inclusivity into AGSA’s culture, creating safe and empowering spaces for dialogue and growth. Her leadership on AGSA’s executive committee of the Women’s forum under the theme “Rise by Lifting” reflects her belief in collective progress and servant leadership.

Tsholofelo’s influence also extends to the next generation of Chartered Accountants. Through mentorship and the development of resource management frameworks, she has strengthened succession planning and fostered a culture of continuous learning. Her efforts have contributed to AGSA’s recognition as a Top Employer and have positioned the organisation as a leader in employee wellness and professional development.

Whether she’s leading complex audits, shaping organisational culture, or mentoring future leaders, Tsholofelo brings a sense of purpose and humanity to everything she does. Her story is one of resilience, vision, and a relentless drive to uplift others—making her a true architect of leadership in the public sector.