Rali Mampeule, From Humble Beginnings to Real Estate Mogul and Philanthropist

​Born on December 22, 1979, in Mokwasele village, Modjadji, South Africa, Rali Mampeule’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in real estate is both inspiring and instructive. Starting as a street hawker selling boerewors rolls while pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree through UNISA, Mampeule’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to the real estate sector. In 2001, he began his career as an assistant real estate agent at Chas Everitt International Property Group in Bryanston, Johannesburg. By 2004, he acquired a Chas Everitt franchise in Midrand, becoming the first Black real estate top executive in South African history.

Mampeule’s commitment to education saw him completing an Advanced Management Development Program in Real Estate at Harvard University. He founded the South African Housing and Infrastructure Fund (SAHIF) in 2019, aiming to address the country’s housing deficit. SAHIF, currently valued at $1 billion, focuses on acquiring vacant and unused land near urban centers for development into zoned and serviced stands. In 2019, Mampeule became the first South African to join the Forbes Real Estate Council, further cementing his influence in the industry. ​

Beyond his business ventures, Mampeule established the Mampeule Foundation in 2019, a non-profit organization dedicated to property education, global health, community development, and providing bursaries for tertiary education. His philanthropic efforts extend globally, as evidenced by his role as the founding donor of the Global Surgery Foundation, which aims to provide access to safe and affordable surgery in underserved regions.

Rali Mampeule’s academic journey reflects his dedication to mastering the complexities of business and real estate. He began his formal education at Rand Park High School, a respected institution known for producing graduates who excel in various professional fields. His early schooling provided a strong academic foundation that would later support his ambitious career trajectory.

Recognising the value of higher education in business leadership, Mampeule pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree through the University of South Africa (UNISA). UNISA, one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world, allowed him to balance his studies with practical entrepreneurial experience. This period was instrumental in shaping his understanding of economics, finance, and corporate strategy—skills that proved invaluable as he entered the real estate sector.

Determined to refine his expertise on a global scale, Mampeule later completed the prestigious Advanced Management Development Program (AMDP) in Real Estate at Harvard University. Harvard’s AMDP is renowned for training elite professionals in property investment, urban development, and market analysis. This qualification positioned him among the top minds in the industry, reinforcing his ability to navigate the evolving real estate landscape in South Africa and beyond.

Early Career

Rali Mampeule’s entrepreneurial mindset emerged early. While studying for his BCom degree, he started a small business selling boerewors rolls in Kyalami, Midrand. This venture not only provided financial support but also sharpened his business instincts—teaching him the fundamentals of customer service, sales, and financial management.

His breakthrough into real estate came through an unexpected encounter with Charles Everitt, founder of Chas Everitt International Property Group. Recognising Mampeule’s drive, Everitt offered him a position as an assistant estate agent. This opportunity introduced him to the property industry, where he quickly grasped market dynamics and sales strategies.

Within a few years, Mampeule transitioned from assistant agent to property entrepreneur. He built a reputation for identifying high-value opportunities and understanding client needs, setting the stage for his future success as a leader in South Africa’s real estate sector.

Founding of the South African Housing and Infrastructure Fund (SAHIF)

In 2019, Rali Mampeule launched the South African Housing and Infrastructure Fund (SAHIF) to tackle the country’s growing housing crisis. The fund focuses on acquiring strategically located vacant land near urban centres, ensuring faster and more efficient development of residential areas. By securing land before it is rezoned, SAHIF lowers costs and accelerates the availability of serviced stands for housing projects.

SAHIF’s impact extends beyond property development. The initiative has contributed to the creation of over 11,000 jobs, stimulating economic activity in construction and related industries. By prioritising affordability and accessibility, the fund supports government efforts to address housing backlogs while fostering sustainable urban expansion.

Mampeule’s vision for SAHIF is not just about infrastructure—it is about economic empowerment. By integrating land ownership with social development, he is reshaping the housing landscape and creating opportunities for historically disadvantaged communities to gain a foothold in the property market.

Philanthropic Initiatives

Rali Mampeule’s commitment to social impact led to the establishment of the Mampeule Foundation in 2019. The foundation invests in property education, equipping aspiring real estate professionals with the knowledge needed to enter the industry. It also funds bursaries for tertiary education, empowering students from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue higher learning. Beyond education, the foundation supports community development projects that improve living conditions in underserved areas.

His philanthropic reach extends to global health. As the founding donor of the Global Surgery Foundation, Mampeule advocates for increased access to safe and affordable surgical care in low-income regions. The initiative addresses critical gaps in healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that essential medical procedures are accessible to vulnerable populations.

Through these efforts, Mampeule’s philanthropy goes beyond financial contributions—he actively drives change in education, housing, and healthcare. His initiatives create long-term opportunities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Board Memberships and Advisory Roles

Rali’s expertise in real estate and infrastructure development has positioned him as a key figure in advisory and leadership roles. In April 2022, he was appointed chairman of the Sustainable Materials and Construction Technologies (SMaCT) Research Centre at the University of Johannesburg. This role allows him to contribute to cutting-edge research on sustainable building practices, aligning with global efforts to create more efficient and environmentally responsible construction methods.

His influence extends beyond academia. In 2019, Mampeule became the first South African to join the Forbes Real Estate Council, an exclusive network of industry leaders shaping global property trends. His inclusion highlights his strategic insights and impact on real estate development, investment, and policy.

Through these roles, Mampeule actively shapes the future of real estate and construction. His contributions to research, sustainability, and market innovation reinforce his status as a thought leader in the industry.

Rali’s values family as the foundation of his success. He is married to Makentse Mampeule, and together they have two children. Despite his demanding career, he prioritises time with his family, balancing his professional ambitions with personal commitments.

His journey from humble beginnings to industry leader has shaped his approach to life, instilling a deep sense of responsibility toward both his loved ones and the broader community. His family remains a source of motivation, driving his dedication to philanthropy and economic empowerment.

Away from the boardroom, Mampeule maintains a strong connection to his roots. His personal experiences continue to inform his vision, ensuring that his work in business and social impact remains grounded in meaningful change.

Rali Mampeule’s journey reflects a relentless pursuit of progress, both in business and in social impact. His contributions to real estate have reshaped industry dynamics, while his philanthropic initiatives continue to create opportunities for others. His leadership in property development, education, and healthcare underscores a vision that extends beyond personal success.

By breaking barriers and driving meaningful change, Mampeule has set a precedent for future entrepreneurs and industry leaders. His ability to merge business growth with community upliftment highlights a model of success rooted in responsibility.

His legacy is defined not just by his achievements, but by the lasting impact of his initiatives. Through his ongoing efforts, he continues to influence economic empowerment, sustainable development, and access to opportunity, shaping a future that benefits both individuals and society as a whole.