Ndumiso Kubheka, From One Day Leader to NYDA CEO
The NYDA Executive Chairperson, along with agency executive directors, senior managers, managers, and staff members, proudly welcomed Mr. Ndumiso Kubheka as the new Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). This marks an exciting new chapter in the NYDA’s journey of empowering young people and driving youth development nationwide.
Mr. Kubheka first gained prominence by winning the highly contested leadership competition One Day Leader on SABC 1. That achievement launched him into the national spotlight, and he later returned to the show as a judge, helping to mentor the next generation of young leaders . His performance caught the attention of decision-makers, affirming his vision and leadership potential.
He went on to build a distinguished career as an economist and strategist. As Chief Executive at KH Equity Partners—a research-driven advisory and private equity firm—Mr. Kubheka has overseen macroeconomic research, strategy development, investment promotion, and governance oversight . He has advised multinational companies, served as Global Faculty at Duke Corporate Education, and held board positions with a Fortune 500 NYSE-listed company and the DaVinci Business School . His academic credentials are equally impressive: an MBA from GIBS, a diploma in alternative investments from Harvard Business School, a BCom Honours in Economics (UNISA), and a BCom in Economics and International Trade (NWU) .
His appointment as NYDA CEO follows a rigorous selection and approval process, initiated by the interim board appointed by President Ramaphosa in late 2024 and endorsed by the minister and Cabinet . This transition signals a renewed focus on youth development and economic opportunity, with Mr. Kubheka poised to guide the agency toward measurable impact.
Mr. Kubheka’s distinguished track record—combining youth leadership, economic rigour, and strategic insight—positions him well to accelerate NYDA’s programmes, foster innovation, and strengthen partnerships across public, private, and civil society sectors. His vision aligns with the NYDA’s mission to empower South Africa’s youth through enhanced job creation, entrepreneurial support, and skills development.
Under his guidance, expectations are high for the NYDA to elevate its impact through data-driven strategies, tech-enabled initiatives, and collaborative ventures that put young people at the center. Mr. Kubheka exemplifies the very spirit of youth potential: rising from a televised leadership platform to one of the most influential roles in youth development.
Here’s to building a brighter future for South Africa’s youth under his leadership!
