WE HARNESS THE POWER OF COLLABORATION AND ACTIVE CITIZENRY TO CO-CREATE THRIVING COMMUNITIES.
Ranyaka was established as a non-profit, urban planning consultancy in 2013 to develop transformative strategies for towns and neighbourhoods. We work hand-in-hand with residents, civil society entities, faith-based institutions, business, all levels of government, academic institutions and local change agents to co-create places where people can prosper – in every sense of the word. We are currently (2024) working in 33 communities in 15 towns in 8 provinces across South Africa – implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town initiative.
WE WORK WITH
PLACES
Our approach is place-based and systemic. People-centered spatial planning and multi-sectoral integration are key to community well-being. Our objective is to create healthy eco-systems that lay a foundation for optimal development.
A TRANSFORMED PLACE HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM LIVES.
WE WORK WITH
PEOPLE
We work with local stakeholders, strengthening change agents, facilitating cross-sectoral collaboration and integrating citizen-led initiatives into the over-arching strategy for the area. Our objective is collective, as opposed to isolated impact.
THROUGH COLLABORATION, WE TACKLE WHAT IS WRONG AND UNLOCK WHAT IS STRONG.
WE WORK WITH
PIONEERING INVESTORS
We develop smarter ways of investing in societal transformation. Our objective is sustainability, real impact and maximum return on investment. Nedbank’s Proud of my Town initiative is a prime example of smart investment in action.
SMART INVESTMENT LOOKS BEYOND ISOLATED INTERVENTIONS.
A word from our CEO
In navigating the tumultuous landscape of South Africa, both politically and socio-economically, we acknowledge the prevailing sentiment of uncertainty about the country's future. However, at Ranyaka, we consciously opt for an alternative outlook; not from naivety,...
Klapmuts – a journey of partnership, progress and possibility
A small gathering at a school library in early 2016 marked the beginning of Ranyaka's journey in the community of Klapmuts. Fifteen residents and stakeholders met to discuss a shared vision for the area, laying the groundwork for future planning and development. This...
Strengthening local heroes for lasting impact
In every community across South Africa, passionate individuals and organisations are driving meaningful change. We journey with these local heroes every day – and as a non-profit organisation working side-by-side with our implementation partners, we understand the...
Darling: A journey of trust and transformation
Darling, in the Western Cape, has set a bold vision: to become the country’s first green, resilient, and inclusive town. Getting there will require a foundation of trust, strategic partnerships, and strong community engagement.
Paintball with a purpose: The Ghost Paintball story
What began as a non-profit initiative to give survivors of gender-based violence a functional way to release their stress and anger has evolved into a thriving paintball business for Martin Mokapala, founder of Ghost Paintball in Mamelodi. From humble beginnings as a...
Reaching for the Stars: How Pixel Art Studio captures the essence of Africa
Once dreaming of soaring through the skies as an aviation professional, Nhlanhla Mkhwabane has found a different way to fly high — through the lens of his camera. Today, his photography and design business, Pixel Art Studio, is reaching for new heights. Pixel Art...
Crafting keys, building dreams: The story of Sbevu Trading
When you visit Mams Mall in Mamelodi township, Tshwane, you are likely to come across Sbevu Locksmith and Projects (registered as Sbevu Trading), a local business that has been serving the community since it opened its doors in 2020. Bheki Innocent Simelane, the man...
Empowering local brands to shine on a global stage: The Gabriel Projects journey
In the city of Rustenburg in North West province, a young creative agency is making a name for itself in the branding and design industry. Gabriel Projects, founded by Karabo Gabriel Mulaudzi, is on a mission to empower local brands to shine on the global stage.Karabo...
Fixing spaces, inspiring futures: Transforming Early Childhood Development centres
I remember a particular day when I walked into our local hardware store with my youngest son at my side. He was 11 years old at the time. Hardware stores have that distinctive smell – a mixture of paint, chemicals, wood and cement. I commented on it and my son,...
Building confidence and community: the story of Elate Beauty
With her bright, beautiful smile and sunny personality, Sanelisiwe Kanqu wants nothing more than to make her clients feel confident and happy. A qualified somatologist, her goal is to offer inclusive, affordable beauty and spa services to a diverse clientele through...
Crocheted dreams: How Captain Fabulous is building a thriving business
For Itumeleng Molopo, crocheting has been an important part of her life growing up, and now again in her adult life as means to provide for her family. As a child, it helped her steer away from negative influences such as teenage pregnancies, drug abuse, and crime so...
Building a legacy in beauty and catering
Herminah Mentoro's entrepreneurial journey speaks of passion and perseverance. Hailing from Boitekong township in Rustenburg, Herminah's love for beauty began in her youth. "As a child, I was captivated by fashion magazines and lifestyle shows, experimenting with...
Fueling change in the automotive realm
When Sbusiso Mngomezulu and Mandisa Xulu started their business, Alcophylex (Pty) Ltd in Mamelodi township in 2020, they never expected their journey to be so rewarding. Their business, an automotive paint centre, provides a profitable outlet for their mutual love for...
ABOUT US
In 1996, two young town planners from very different backgrounds reported for duty at a local municipality in Gauteng. Only two years had passed since the dawn of democracy in South Africa.
WHAT WE DO
Ranyaka works hand-in-hand with communities, local stakeholders, all levels of government and investors to develop and implement transformation strategies for towns and communities.
WHERE WE WORK
By mid-2020, Ranyaka will be working in 13 towns and neighbourhoods in 9 towns across seven provinces throughout South Africa. We focus mainly, but not exclusively, on under-resourced communities.