Ms. Vuyo Gumede is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and active Board Member of the Manufacturers Collaboration Association (MCA), where she provides strategic direction, governance oversight, and leadership in advancing community-based manufacturing across South Africa.

She is also the Founder and Managing Director of Cheetah Energy Drink Pty Ltd, a proudly South African beverage company specializing in health-focused energy drinks. These products feature very low caffeine levels combined with essential vitamins, amino acids, and probiotics for wellness-oriented consumers.

Vuyo holds a Bachelor of Accounting Science degree, along with advanced qualifications in Corporate Governance, Management Services (Organisational Work Study), Food & Beverages Safety Packaging, and Quality Assurance. With over 25 years of executive experience, she has held senior roles at Transnet Freight Rail and PRASA, excelling in corporate governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, and operational strategy.

Her international exposure includes completing export and supplier development programmes, notably the prestigious Fit for Business with Germany Manager Programme, which has equipped Cheetah Energy Drink for potential European market expansion.

Renowned for her strong governance expertise and results-oriented leadership, Vuyo is deeply committed to bolstering South Africa’s manufacturing ecosystem. She focuses on connecting community enterprises with technical know-how, funding opportunities, and global standards of excellence.