SOUTH AFRICAN UNION OF STUDENTS (SAUS) STATEMENT ON THE NEWLY APPOINTED NYDA BOARD LED BY DR. MYENDE AND MR. MAKHANYA
23 JULY 2025 The South African Union of Students (SAUS) extends its revolutionary congratulations to the newly appointed Board of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), as announced by the Presidency. We particularly welcome the appointment of Dr Sunshine Minenhle Myende as Chairperson and Mr. Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya as Deputy Chairperson. Their leadership marks a new dawn for youth development, and we believe that this collective brings the calibre, credibility, and clarity of purpose that the agency needs. Dr Sunshine Myende, a scholar and activist in the field of criminology, brings with her a wealth of experience rooted in community-based approaches to social justice, school safety, and crime prevention. Her commitment to building safer environments for young people, especially in historically marginalised communities, is a critical component that the NYDA needs as it seeks to broaden its scope beyond mere funding disbursement toward tackling the deeper social crises that affect youth development. We are equally proud of the appointment of Mr. Bonga Siphesihle Makhanya, whose journey from student activist to Deputy Chairperson of the NYDA Board is an inspiration to a generation of youth leaders. A product of the student movement, a graduate in Economic Sciences from the University of the Witwatersrand, and a passionate advocate for economic justice. His work through the South African Youth Economic Council (SAYEC), his historic R21 million fundraising effort to rescue financially excluded students, and his role in creating strategic youth participation in the energy sector through Just Energy Transition dialogues prove his unwavering commitment to progressive transformation. Bonga’s policy acumen, his experience in youth-led economic advocacy, he enters the NYDA not merely as a leader but as an organiser of ideas and resources, someone who can bridge policy, programme, and people. SAUS further welcomes the rich diversity and intersectionality represented in the full composition of the Board. These additional members bring important experiences and identities that will ensure that no young person is left behind: Mx Busisiwe Nandipha Nxumalo, a human rights activist and social science graduate, brings a powerful and needed voice for LGBTQI+ youth and other marginalised communities. Their political activism and commitment to inclusivity signal that the NYDA is serious about building a youth sector that is safe, affirming, and accessible for all identities. Dr. Wiseman Mfaniseni Mbatha, a Development Studies scholar and rural development researcher, offers deep insight into the structural inequalities facing rural youth. His presence is a necessary intervention to ensure the NYDA addresses spatial and geographic exclusion and supports youth in farming, climate resilience, and land reform. Ms. Thembisile Precious Mahuwa, with her background in legal aid, education, and women’s rights, provides a strong voice for gender justice and the rights of young women, particularly those facing systemic discrimination in access to education and safety. Ms. Kelly Sandra Baloyi and Mr. Sibusiso Makhathini, with their hands-on community development experience, will help root the NYDA in practical, on-the-ground solutions that are people-centered and responsive. This Board is not only representative of the diverse tapestry of young South Africans, it is equipped with organisers who understand that youth empowerment must be political, economic, and inclusive. For and on behalf of SAUSNhlonipho NxumaloSecretary-General+27 (61) 296-2064