Simphiwe Biyela
Executive DirectorNDip Quantity Surveying, Durban University of TechnologyA founding member with more than 15 years in the built environment. Provides technical oversight of our physical projects and guides our long-term strategy.
About the Foundation
Our story
Almal Foundation was started in 2016 by a group who believed that a small team working together could achieve a great deal.
Between 2016 and 2019, we ran emergency relief, brought government and communities together, and took young people into conservation. That work showed that we could link decision-makers with the people their decisions affect.
The years that followed were hard. COVID-19 brought heavy loss to our communities, and in October 2021 our Chairperson passed away. With both of these losses, our work slowed and we took time to reflect.
We used those years to rebuild. Our aim was an organisation that would outlast its founders and turn short-term efforts into lasting results.
In 2026 we are back with a clearer focus: four projects where culture, the environment and opportunity meet, each aimed at securing the next generation’s future.
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Simphiwe BiyelaExecutive Director
Our vision
To work together within society to inspire resilience, opportunity and sustainability.
At a glance
Founded in 2016 in KwaZulu-Natal. Registered as a non-profit company and public benefit organisation, with B-BBEE Level One status.
What guides us
Our values
Ubuntu
Living by the values of Ntu: care, respect and shared humanity.
Heritage
Protecting what the next generation will inherit.
Stewardship
Taking responsibility for the places and people we work with.
Opportunity
Always looking for new ways to open doors for more people.
Governance and leadership
Our directors
Bongumusa Khumalo
DirectorFinancial services professional, 13+ yearsA founding member responsible for the Foundation’s financial sustainability, transparent reporting and careful management of development funds.
Asanda Biyela
DirectorLLB, postgraduate qualification in Industrial RelationsBrings legal expertise to heritage rights, community engagement and the administration of large projects.
Registered and accountable
Our credentials
Almal Foundation is a registered non-profit company, non-profit organisation and public benefit organisation.
| Legal name | Almal Foundation NPC |
|---|---|
| Company registration number | 2016/510922/08 |
| NPO number | 182-358 |
| PBO number | 930057656 |
| Tax registration number | 9072448245 |
| B-BBEE status | Level One |