Xoli founded Black Girls Rising in 2020 in South Africa (However, it has been in existence since 2015 under Earth Child Project). Black Girls Rising is a black-led, youth-focused organisation based in Cape Town that works to empower the next generation of young women climate-activist leaders. They work with black girls and young women between the ages of 9 -18 from under-resourced communities or communities affected by environmental and climate change in South Africa, Zambia and Kenya. They prepare them for activism, education and work in the green sector through: Mentorship opportunities and, Advocacy and campaign training.
Their vision is the existence of a thriving society made up of empowered black girls and young women, from under-resourced communities across Southern Africa, who are prominent leaders in climate action, sustainability, and environmental justice.
To achieve this vision, they provide educational empowerment programs, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy platforms that support the development of black girls as influential voices and catalysts for climate leadership.
Xoli is also a certified 5Rhythms® teacher and offers the dance as a bridge to connect under-resourced communities to the wider dance community. She facilitates dynamic, fun, and transformative spaces for young women with an aim to stimulate the girls to find their voices and courage by equipping them with mentorship and leadership training.
“The work with Melissa Michaels has been my compass, guiding and supporting my work with groups and young women in South Africa. It’s been a key in my growth and transforming in all aspects of my life. SomaSource training and resources have helped me in fostering an including community and leading through serving others.”
