Mbombela founder empowers communities through holistic wellness initiative

For Xandra Malapane (51), wellness is about empowering people and building healthier and more resilient communities.

Malapane, the founder of the World of Wellness Foundation, puts this philosophy into action by focusing on several interconnected dimensions of wellness. The foundation’s key pillars include health and wellness, financial literacy, education support and small-business acceleration.

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The foundation was established this year and is positioning itself as a platform through which individuals, organisations and businesses can address community needs. Its work includes providing support where a need has been identified or assistance has been requested through partnerships with organisations, individuals and companies.

Foundation tackles period poverty

One of the foundation’s major focus areas is alleviating period poverty. Through this initiative, it aims to improve access to safe, quality organic sanitary pads, helping women and girls manage their menstrual health with greater confidence.

“For me, community development is not a new pursuit. Before establishing the organisation, I worked at two non-profit organisations and currently serve on the board of another. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of the importance of collaboration and responding meaningfully to community needs,” she said.

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The foundation is also actively seeking partners, donors and volunteers who share a commitment to wellness, personal development and community upliftment.

“I believe that meaningful change is most powerful when people and organisations combine their resources, expertise and passion,” she said.

Business provides corporate wellness solutions

Her commitment to holistic wellness is also reflected in her work as the founder and director of The Wow Group.

“Through the business, I support individuals on their wellness journeys while providing wellness solutions and experiences to corporates and businesses,” she said.

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Malapane holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from the University of Cape Town, and the combination of corporate experience and community-focused work has shaped her approach to wellness as something that should be accessible, practical and empowering.
Whether she is working with an individual, a business or a community, her focus remains on creating opportunities for people to thrive.