ACG Architects has always been driven by the philosophy that its people are it’s greatest asset. As the firm embarks on a new era of leadership under the newly appointed CEO Mrs Shameez Mohamed, this commitment has further been solidified with the appointment of two outstanding individuals to key leadership positions namely, Faranaaz Philander as Financial Manager and Thuthuka Zondi as an Associate.
Their growth within ACG is a testament to the company’s strategic focus on nurturing young talent, fostering resilience and driving transformation within the Architectural Landscape sector in South Africa.
Building from Within, Ms. Faranaaz Philander’s Rise to Financial Manager
Faranaaz Philander’s journey at ACG is one of perseverance, dedication, and professional excellence. Since joining the firm in 2016 as an intern, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to growth and development. Completing her 18-month internship, she went on to obtain her National Diploma in Financial Management in 2018. Her unwavering determination led her to pursue a Degree in Financial Management at MANCOSA, which she successfully completed achieving not just one, but four distinctions.
Her appointment as Financial Manager in 2025 is a well-earned milestone, reflecting her years of hard work and ACG’s commitment to recognizing and promoting talent from within. Faranaaz’s ability to navigate the complexities of financial strategy and operations ensures that ACG remains financially robust and positioned for sustained growth.
A Story of Passion and Progression, Mr Thuthuka Zondi
Thuthuka Zondi’s journey at ACG Architects began in 2016. His appointment to Associate in 2025 represents a significant achievement in his career. A fully qualified Professional Architectural Technologist, Thuthuka’s growth within ACG was supported through financial aid and mentorship, testament to the firm’s dedication to investing in its people.
Reflecting on his new role, Thuthuka acknowledged the significance of this appointment not just for himself, but for the aspirations of the community he represents and the future of Black professionals in Architecture. He expressed his gratitude to those who paved the way, recognizing the historic barriers that ACG’s founders broke down to make the profession more inclusive. Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thuthuka emphasized his commitment to excellence, “If you are a street sweeper, be the best street sweeper, so that all the host of heaven and earth will look down and say, here lived a great street sweeper, who did his job well” This philosophy aligns perfectly with ACG’s ethos pursuing excellence in every role and ensuring that transformation remains at the heart of the company’s mission
Strategic Growth and Transformation Aligned with ACG’s Vision
These appointments are more than just individual achievements; however, they reflect ACG’s broader strategic direction. Under the leadership of Mrs Shameez Mohamed, the firm is entering a phase of renewed transformation, where empowerment, diversity and talent development take center stage. By nurturing leadership from within, ACG is strengthening its foundation for long-term success while ensuring that the next generation of Architects and Financial leaders have the opportunities they deserve.
Mrs Mohamed’s leadership is rooted in the belief that growth comes from within, and that true transformation occurs when organizations invest in their people. A steadfast commitment to fostering professional development and creating opportunities for historically disadvantaged individuals, ACG continues to be a trailblazer in the Architectural industry.
As ACG looks toward the future, these leadership appointments reaffirm its commitment to Excellence, Resilience, and Innovation. More on ACG’s leadership transition and vision for the future, read the CEO announcement here:ACG Architects Announces Leadership Transition.