A Journey of Growth, Connection, and Becoming
The 2025 STEP cohort, running from April 2025 to June 2026, has shown meaningful internal growth, strong teamwork, and new ways of thinking about themselves. Through shared learning and reflection, they continue to grow in confidence, awareness, and connection.
Inspiring Young People To Rise Beyond Their Story
Ethan Manasse
My mission is to inspire young people, especially from my community, to see that their story can rise beyond their circumstances. I pour into others through my journey, faith, and passion in education, athletics and leadership. I strive to serve with integrity, humility, and excellence, honour God in all I do, and show that with faith, hard work, and determination, anything is possible.
I am Curious About ...
... the human mind, how we think, feel, and connect. I love exploring what drives our actions and responses. Understanding these patterns help me grow, relate to others, and create a positive impact in the lives of those around me.
My STEP-Up Moment
My STEP-Up moment was when I shared something very personal during one of the exercises in the STEP Programme. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to reflect deeply and confront parts of myself I had kept hidden. Later that experience gave me more confidence to speak in front of people.
Designing with Curiosity, Care, and a Bit of Fun:
Anele Sisanda Hinana
I'm a creative Industrial Designer who cares deeply about people and the things they use every day. I love turning ideas into practical, meaningful tools that make life a little easier and safer. My work brings together curiosity, human-centred design, technology, and sustainability. I value honesty, making sense of the world, and learning alongside others, I'm most inspired when creating things that support growth and real connection.
I am Curious About ...
... how creativity, technology, and human behaviour come together to solve real problems. I love exploring product design, UX/UI, robotics, wearable tech, and research. Understanding how things work, why people think the way they do, and using design to make a difference excites me.
My STEP-Up Moment
Stepping into leadership roles despite being shy was my STEP-Up moment. I learned growth happens in discomfort, that I can communicate confidently, be myself, and that leadership is about being real, not loud.
Empathy Driven Leader for Social Change
Faye Nthabiseng Williams
I'm a feminist, activist, and Business Administration student passionate about social justice, mental health advocacy, and environment sustainability. Guided by care, compassion, and collective healing, I believe leadership should be rooted in empathy and accountability. Through youth development and community work, I aim to create inclusive, healing, and empowering spaces. my long-term goal is to work in environments that challenge harmful systems.
I am Curious About ...
... community-led development, sustainable living, food justice, and youth development. I'm especially interested in how environmental work, mental health and social justice intersect.
My STEP-Up Moment
One of my biggest STEP Up moment was leading in youth and community spaces while managing my mental health. I learned to lead with compassion, communicate clearly, and trust myself.
Quick Witt, Big Heart
Theo Kampies
Being quick-witted has proven to be a valuable asset, especially when I am surrounded by others. I have always stayed true to myself, and that has helped me connect with others more easily. Authenticity wins! I love being surrounded by my chosen family; sharing laughs, meals, and a game or two, having meaningful conversations, and memorable experiences
I am Curious About ...
… stand-up comedy and theatre! I am very passionate about both comedy and the performing arts, and I would love the opportunity to learn more about it and eventually take part in it too!
My STEP-Up Moment
During the STEP programme, I had to do a “Flash Talk”; I had to speak on an unknown topic with no preparation. Trusting my instincts, I overcame anxiety and spoke confidently, learning that self-trust leads to triumph.
Spreading Smiles, Always Learning
Cleopas Tarira
I‘m someone who loves keeping the people around me smiling, because I believe happiness has the power to heal the world. I’m open to conversations with anyone and enjoy learning from people of all ages, because I believe there is always something new to add to our understanding. I’m always looking for better ways to handle situations and grow from the lessons they bring. “A dollar might turn into a million, and we can all be rich, that’s just how I feel”.
I am Curious About ...
… nature and the wonders of God. I feel a deep desire to explore the world and discover what lies beyond what I already know. One of my dreams is to travel and visit all the countries mentioned in the Bible in the near future.
My STEP-Up Moment
Was when I was chosen to represent my school in a chess tournament. I was very nervous at first, but I ended up winning the entire competition. That experience taught me that with the right support, you can achieve things you never thought were possible, even when you don’t fully believe in yourself yet.
