Thokozile Nhlumayo

Thokozile Nhlumayo is a political and social justice advocate who has made significant contributions to the development of African politics and leadership. She is the founder of the #NotTooYoungtToLead campaign, which is now a global movement.

Thokozile serves as Executive Secretary of the International Youth Parliament, an Institution that exists in 45 countries in Africa that advocates for meaningful inclusion of young people in politics, leadership, and decision- making. Through her leadership, the International Youth Parliament was recognized by the African Union as one of top 70 institutions contributing to Africa’s political and leadership development. Additionally, Thokozile introduced the Women’s Political Leaders Program in South Africa, Kenya and Namibia. Her work focuses on advancing the SDGs of Reducing Inequalities and advancing Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

She was named one of the 50 most powerful women in South Africa in 2021, and in 2022, she was named one of the 100 most influential young people globally. Thokozile was the first Mandela Washington Fellow who had the opportunity to do her PDE in the U.S House of Representatives under the office of Congress Member Karen Bass where she had the opportunity to also contribute to writing think pieces on behalf of Congress about improving U.S-Africa Relations. In 2023, Thokozile was also amongst leaders who were announced by President Obama as Obama Leaders joining the Obama Leadership Program which she graduated from in August last year.

Her vision is to see young people and women becoming pillars of democracy and shapers of decisions.