Supporting youth development

We are excited to welcome Asiphile Magaqa to the CSDA team, as an intern through the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme.

Asiphile has completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg. While at UJ, she was a politics mentor and a member of the Golden Key UJ Chapter. She also participated in the UJ Study Abroad Programme with George Mason University in the USA. She attended the Washington Summer Institute, which allowed her to immerse herself in a different educational system and gain a broader understanding of global issues.

Asiphile is also a facilitator with Engage SA’s My Voice initiative, an initiative focused on empowering young South Africans to find their voices and actively engage in civic affairs. Recognising the significance of youth representation and gender inclusivity in policymaking, Asiphile joined the Youth Policy Committee and served as the Youth Gender Action Plan Coordinator for the South African Institute of International Affairs.

Asiphile is a member of the Aspire Leaders programme initiated by Harvard Business School, offering her the opportunity to engage with fellow visionary leaders. Additionally, she has been acknowledged as a Women@Dior mentee, granting her invaluable insights and mentorship from established professionals in the field.

“I am thrilled by the prospect of contributing to the Centre for Social Development in Africa at the University of Johannesburg, as their commitment to conducting research that informs both the theory and practice of social development resonates deeply with my values. This unique opportunity would enable me to engage directly in shaping positive change, bridging the gap between academia and grassroots communities across South Africa, and fostering impactful solutions that can transform lives on a meaningful scale.”