WSU Journalism graduate, Zolile Zamisa, is one of the candidates currently being interviewed by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications set to fill vacancies on the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) board.

Zamisa (29) currently serves as an Administrator at the ANC Parliamentary Office and the youngest of 37 individuals, nationally, who met the requirements for SABC board candidacy.

The SABC Board is responsible for providing guidance, leadership and ensuring that good governance is upheld by the country’s public broadcaster.

As the youngest candidate, Zamisa wishes to bring a youthful perspective to the board, which will pave a path to the revival of the national broadcaster and its appeal to the youth.  

“The SABC Board has always been dominated by elders who served in different executives, but the SABC has not made profit for the past five years. One key factor which led to this is the fact that young people, with their innovation and fresh ideas in entertainment, are left out. I will bring fresh relevant ideas which are appealing to the biggest demographic in SA and that’s young people,” said Zamisa.

Interviews for the board commenced on 13 September and will conclude on 16 September, with candidates appearing before the Portfolio Committee on Communications at the National Assembly.

Zamisa is elated at his nomination for the board and hopes that his vast knowledge ranging from politics, media and public administration will garner him the support he needs to make the final cut.

Zamisa holds a National Diploma in Public Relations, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration.

During his years at WSU, he was speaker of student parliament for three terms, chairperson of SASCO, and convenor of the ANC Youth League Branch Task Team, amongst other leadership roles.

He went on to work as a Journalist for the Go & Express newspaper, as well as Media Liaison officer for a SAPS branch in East London.

“I am proud to have been shortlisted and I hope I will get the appointment to make history and also showcase my ability and expertise for the betterment of the board and SA citizens,” he said.

CVs of candidates have been published on the South African Parliament’s website for public comment until 22 September.

By Yanga Ziwele