From a Dream to a New Chapter: The Story of Zoë-Life's Leadership
Twenty-two years ago, Zoë-Life began with a dream. Today, a new chapter begins, built on the same belief that inspired it all: that people, working together, can change lives.
As Zoë-Life welcomes Nokuthula Heath as its new Chief Executive Officer, we reflect on the remarkable journey of founder Dr Stephanie Thomas, the people who helped shape the organisation, and the shared vision guiding its future.
Where it all began
Dr Stephanie Thomas - Zoë-Life Founder & Outgoing CEO
For Dr Stephanie Thomas, the beginnings of Zoë-Life were anything but conventional.
With a tiny baby at home, Stephanie recalls receiving dreams and instructions during the night. She began following them, one by one, initially on her own and later alongside friends who shared her vision.
What started as a series of small steps grew into programmes, partnerships and interventions that would reach communities across South Africa and beyond.
Behind that dream was also a strong foundation in medicine and a deep commitment to improving people's lives. A qualified medical doctor who studied at Stellenbosch University, Stephanie brought experience in HIV, public health, chronic illness and mental health to her work, with a professional journey spanning South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Looking back, Stephanie describes the journey as adventurous, exhausting, amusing and inspiring. Above all, she remembers the extraordinary people who made it possible.
After more than two decades of leading the organisation she founded, Stephanie is stepping down as CEO, passing the leadership to someone who has been part of that journey for over 16 years.
A familiar face, a new role
Nokuthula Heath - Chief Executive Officer
When Nokuthula Heath first interviewed for a position at Zoë-Life, she arrived thoroughly prepared. What she hadn't prepared for was Stephanie asking her to demonstrate her dancing or drumming skills!
It was an unexpected introduction to an organisation that has never been afraid to do things differently.
Over the years, Nokuthula has worked across programme implementation, coordination, management and advocacy. She has seen ideas become practical interventions and witnessed how listening to communities can transform the way services are delivered.
As Zoë-Life's Regional Programmes Manager and an Executive Director, Nokuthula has helped develop programmes and strengthen partnerships with communities, healthcare providers, government and other organisations. Her experience spans HIV, child and adolescent health, psychosocial support and community development. Beyond Zoë-Life, she also serves as National Secretary General of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) Civil Society Forum Children's Sector, contributing to national advocacy for children's health and wellbeing.
For Nokuthula, one of Stephanie's greatest lessons has been the courage to challenge conventional thinking when existing systems are not meeting people's needs.
It is a lesson she carries into her new role.
When asked whether she ever imagined becoming Zoë-Life's CEO, her answer was refreshingly simple: she hadn't. Yet her journey has prepared her for this moment. Having worked alongside communities, healthcare workers, government and partners, she understands both the organisation's strengths and the challenges ahead.
And she knows that leadership is not something one person does alone.
Preserving the heart, embracing the future
As Nokuthula takes the helm, there is something she is determined to protect: the heart of Zoë-Life. Its commitment to children, families and communities. Its willingness to innovate. And the sense of belonging that has kept people connected to the organisation over the years.
But she is equally clear that preserving a legacy does not mean standing still.
Her vision includes stronger partnerships, greater collaboration and building on Zoë-Life's work beyond South Africa. Her hope for Zoë-Life's next chapter is one of togetherness, where organisations, communities and individuals bring their strengths together to achieve more than any could alone.
Two women. Different journeys. A shared commitment to making a difference.
As Stephanie passes the leadership to Nokuthula, Zoë-Life carries forward the experience, relationships and values built over more than two decades, with fresh leadership to guide what comes next.