Zama Khanyase: Empowering South Africa's youth through collaborative leadership

 In the heart of Gamalakhe, on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, resides Zama Khanyase, a 31-year-old powerhouse whose belief in collaborative leadership and community involvement is unwavering.

It drives her mission.

Currently serving as the national spokesperson for the ANC's Youth League (ANCYL), Khanyase is a champion of women empowerment, and insists that leadership should not be a tier above society, but grounded.

This mantra reflects her dedication to building a society where equality, justice, and dignity are afforded to everyone.

Khanyase draws motivation from her childhood on the South Coast, where social challenges remain rampant.

“I’m a firm believer in the role of the community in socialising the kind of citizens we have as a country,” she said.

With a vision to eradicate crime, drug abuse, gangsterism, and gender-based violence, her ambition is anchored in the belief that transforming local communities can pave the way for responsible leaders.

“If we create a safe environment, we nurture individuals who can thrive and lead in spaces we never imagined,” she adds.

Politics, she insists, has always felt like a calling, a channel through which she can serve her community and advocate for justice.

“It’s not just a career choice; it’s a lifelong commitment to bettering society,” Khanyase says, reflecting on her journey that began at a young age.

Her political involvement ignited when she joined student activism in Grade 8. “I joined politics in 2007, 18 years ago,” she reminisces.

Her activism has taken her through the ranks of various organisations, including student bodies like COSAS, SASCO, and YCLSA, leading her to her current position as a national executive committee member of the ANCYL.

“From grassroots organising to on national platforms, I have always been driven by a belief in positive change,” Khanyase asserts.

The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) ignited her passion for politics, she rose to the role of national deputy secretary-general and ultimately president.

She recalls that during her tenure, the focus was on critical issues plaguing students, such as teenage pregnancy, inadequate school infrastructure, and limited access to educational resources.

While Khanyase roams the corridors of power, she admits that politics can be daunting, especially for women.

“Intimidation is a reality we face,” Khanyase explains, alluding to the pressure women experience from both men and women seeking to undermine their authority.

However, she remains resolute, crediting resilience and a robust support network of women as crucial in overcoming challenges.

On the balance between her public life and family time, Khanyase emphasises the need for extreme discipline.

“It requires prioritising properly and delegating tasks whenever possible,” she says.

At the core of her success is a deep appreciation for family support, allowing her to make the most of the precious moments with loved ones.

As she continues her journey, Khanyase stands out as a compelling example of how young leaders can navigate the complexities of politics while remaining grounded in their communities.

Her unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation and fostering a collaborative spirit sets the stage for positive change in South Africa.

DAILY NEWS