Zamangwanya Mfubu

Born and raised in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Fourteen years ago, I moved to Cape Town to study and build my career. Over time, I created a life I had always dreamed of, independent, successful, and thriving in a fast-paced, modern environment.

However, my journey took an unexpected turn when I began experiencing vivid dreams and unexplained physical symptoms that no medical diagnosis could explain. In 2022, after my health declined, I was told that my calling was spiritual, not physical. This led me back home to the Eastern Cape, where I was guided to begin my initiation into ubungoma.

Answering this calling was not easy. I had to leave behind my career, my lifestyle, and everything I had worked toward. But through the process of initiation, I found clarity, healing, and a deeper sense of purpose. What once felt confusing became a source of guidance and strength.

Today, I am a practicing Sangoma. I have come to understand that my journey is not about choosing between two worlds, but about bridging them, honoring both my professional background and my spiritual calling.

Before stepping fully into this path, I built a career in public health, research, and data systems strengthening. With over a decade of experience, I worked in roles focused on monitoring and evaluation, clinical research, data quality management, and health counselling. My work included supporting community health programs, managing research data systems, and contributing to studies focused on improving healthcare outcomes, particularly in underserved communities.

I have worked with organizations such as Amandla Development, the University of Cape Town, the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, and the South African Medical Research Council. Across these roles, I developed a strong foundation in ethical research, data integrity, and community-centered care.

Today, I bring both my professional experience and spiritual practice together in my work. My purpose is rooted in healing, guidance, and service, supporting others on their journeys while staying grounded in both tradition and modern life. At my core, I am still Zamangwanya, someone who once chased success, and ultimately found meaning