Thembisa gives thanks for the life of Chris Mann, who died of cancer on 10 March 2021. Chris was a key advisor and wise counsellor of Thembisa since its founding. Stephen and Tonia met Chris in 1988. Chris, then Administrator of The Valley Trust, a centre for health promotion in KwaZulu-Natal, enthusiastically backed their idea of setting up a Trust to support grassroots projects.

Chris was born in Port Elizabeth. He worked in rural development and poverty alleviation projects, such as low-cost water-supply and small-scale agriculture; taught English in a rural school; lectured in English at Rhodes University; and worked in teacher development and job creation. Chris combined his compassion with practical action, serving on the board of several trusts. One of these, the Masikhulisane Trust, focusing on job creation and educational initiatives, was supported by Thembisa.

Chris had a BA from Wits in English and Philosophy, an MA from the School of Oriental and African Languages (London) in African Oral Literature, and an MA from Oxford in English Language and Literature. Chris had retired as Professor of English at Rhodes University in Grahamstown. He was a gifted musician, poet, songwriter and author of numerous books. His books, illustrated by his wife, Julia Skeen, are unique treasures. He performed his works in various locations, often accompanied by his own guitar playing.