Makungu Valoyi is a passionate Occupational Therapist and an award-winning mental health activist born and raised in Phalaborwa. She completed her Occupational Therapy degree at Stellenbosch University and earned her Master’s in Mental Health from the University of Pretoria, where she received Golden Key for being among the top 15% in her field. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Mental Health, deepening her commitment to research, education, and accessible care. With experience in government hospitals, education, and the private sector, Makungu has dedicated her career to helping children and adults reach their full potential. She is the co-founder of The Body and Mind Therapy Centre in Phalaborwa and provides virtual therapy and support to clients across South Africa.

Driven by advocacy, Makungu launched the ‘advocacy4mentalhealth’ movement on Instagram in 2021 to share tools for self-care and supporting loved ones. She has been a guest expert on WomanRadioSA, Capricorn FM, and Panache FM, and a speaker at church conferences, women’s forums, and in partnership with the Department of Education — including addressing school principals on preventing burnout in leadership. She has been recognized nationally as a News24 Top 100 Young Mandela in 2023 and received the Mail & Guardian Power of Women Award in Health in 2024. Makungu is also recognized as a changemaker in mental health and partners with brands to amplify mental wellness and reduce stigma across South Africa.