eNews

#03 2025

Remembering Amanda Thobela, a trailblazer who shifted atmospheres

By Joe Sibiya (NRF-SAEON) and Tshinakaho Malesa

The SAEON Ndlovu Node’s inaugural science camp in 2006 started with no blueprint to draw from – it was the first of its kind for the node’s staff as well as for the learners. Twelve grade 11 learners selected from the 12 local Phalaborwa high schools were thrown into the deep end as initiates. Among them was Amanda Thobela (“Panda” to her friends), a bubbly and confident learner, who demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills throughout. 

After a very successful camp, Amanda led the group in writing up their experiences and submitting a proposal for the formation of an eco-club for the SAEON Kids. “As the first group of learners to attend a camp organised by SAEON, we felt it was necessary to extend our learning experience through an eco-club. What we have learned at the camp is beyond words and explanations. We have been given a whole new perspective towards nature conservation,” she wrote.

“SAEON has changed us, made us products of their knowledge and invested in us. It would be our pleasure to show them how much this has advanced our knowledge. An eco-club is a great and exciting way to develop young and upcoming scientists, biologists and conservationists to fight against the destruction of nature.”

Towards the end of that year, Amanda was selected to give a talk during SAEON’s annual Women in Science celebration, which she elevated to another level. She succeeded in enthusing both the learners and the elderly in attendance with her coherent and eloquent presentation.

It was clear to everyone that Amanda was on the threshold of a very successful career.

Amanda Sibongile Thobela, innovator, trailblazer and champion of our natural world. (Photo: Joe Sibiya)

Amanda showed a keen interest in all the science camp activities. (Photo: Joe Sibiya)

Tribute

By Tshinakaho Malesa, former SAEON Kid and friend 

When I met Amanda at the SAEON Camp many years ago (2006), she sparked vibrant energy and enthusiasm in our small group of 12 learners. I can only describe how I experienced her then – as a passion that shifted atmospheres.

The young girl who coined the name AdvEnviro Kidz (Adventure in Environment Kids) for the eco-club went on to blaze a trail as a young woman, bringing her creative spirit and charm to the thrift movement. I loved seeing her thrift business grow (link to Amanda makes vintage clothing trendy again | Letaba Herald) as she poured her heart into it. My favourite moments were when she reimagined vintage garments with a fresh and modern take and transformed them into something trendy and beautiful the way only Panda could!

AdvEnviro Kidz brought Amanda and I together; her quest to experience life in all its fullness united us. Amanda’s excellence combined with her good nature was a pleasure to behold, and she has left an indelible mark on my heart. I am grateful that more people got to experience her Panda magic through her thrift business – ever so charming, ever so stylish. xoxo

The group of learners who attended the SAEON Ndlovu Node’s inaugural science camp in 2006. Amanda is second from the right, next to Sibongile Mokoena, who headed up SAEON’s Education Outreach programme (right) and Joe Sibiya (front row, centre), education outreach officer at the Ndlovu Node, who organised the camp. (Photo: SAEON)

As the founder and owner of Panda Thrift Box, a sustainable online fashion outlet, Amanda was on a mission to dress residents of Phalaborwa and beyond in quality clothes while saving the planet. (Photo courtesy of Phalaborwa Herald, May 1, 2024) (Amanda makes vintage clothing trendy again | Letaba Herald)

Born on 10 April 1989 in Phalaborwa, Limpopo province, Amanda Sibongile Thobela was the firstborn daughter of Edwin and Asnath Thobela.Amanda pursued her education at Little Achievers, Fauna Park Primary School and Frans du Toit High School, matriculating in 2007.She then went on to obtain qualifications in Banking and Customer Services.

 

Amanda began her corporate career in 2010, working as a teller and rising to dealer relationship manager, first at NEDBANK (MFC) and then at ABSA and Volkswagen. In 2024, she left the corporate world to follow her passion for fashion design, founding Panda’s Thrift Box, where she upcycled clothes into vintage wear.She also ventured into food and hospitality by opening Roadside Grill.

 

10 April 1989 – 25 May 2025, mom, sister, daughter, friend, a creative