“My blood will nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of freedom. Tell my people that I love them. They must continue the fight” — Solomon Mahlangu

Dimakatso John Manthosi

Category

Politics & Governance
 

Organisation / Company

Project Youth South Africa

 

Position

Strategic advisor

 

Follow

 
 

Profile

Dimakatso John Manthosi, 25, is an advocate for youth empowerment and inclusive governance. As a strategic adviser to Project Youth South Africa, he plays a key role in shaping civic education initiatives and advancing democratic engagement among young South Africans. His political journey began at MOVE  South Africa, where he served as the youngest spokesperson for the youth-led political party, championing good governance and youth participation. After MOVE SA merged with RISE Mzansi, Dimakatso transitioned to roles in policy development and research, contributing to strategic documents such as TSOGA GP, the party’s plan for  Gauteng, and supporting members of parliament with legislative analysis. Dimakatso’s influence extends beyond national borders. He has engaged on global platforms, including the United Nations  Economic and Social Council, led youth dialogues with the British High Commission and promoted cross-cultural collaboration through partnerships with diplomatic missions. A published author and Golden Key  International Honour Society inductee, Dimakatso has co-written academic work exploring Africa’s role in the fourth industrial revolution.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Political Science (BPolSci) degree, University of Pretoria
  • BA Honours degree in International Relations, University of Pretoria

Achievements

  • Appointed as the youngest Spokesperson for MOVE South Africa, a youth-led political party established in 2022
  • Held strategic roles in RISE Mzansi’s Political Programs and Policy Departments. Initially appointed as a Researcher, later advancing to Policy Analyst.
  • Co-authored TSOGA GP, a key policy document outlining priorities for Gauteng
  • Co-authored Chapter 7 in the academic publication Contributions of Africa’s Indigenous Knowledge to the Wave of Digital Technology (IGI Global).
  • Selected as a delegate for the UN ECOSOC and International Model United Nations (IMUN) simulations in Turkey
  • Led a 2024 youth dialogue with the British High Commission, promoting inclusive governance.
  • Inducted into the Golden Key International Honour Society during the first year of undergraduate study in recognition of academic excellence and leadership potential.

Mentors

Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi is one of the most brilliant individuals I look up to. I admire him not only for the way he has advanced his legal career, but also for how he has consistently used his platform to highlight and engage with the struggles of black people in South Africa. His deep understanding of the judicial branch and broader governmental structures allows him to critically examine systemic issues. What sets him apart is his ability to go beyond diagnosing these challenges — his writings also offer thoughtful and actionable solutions, which I find truly inspiring. On a more personal level, my mentor is Mr Moloi, my lecturer and research supervisor at the University of Pretoria. He has played a pivotal role in shaping my professional growth, offering both academic guidance and emotional support throughout my journey. His mentorship has opened doors to a wide range of opportunities and professional networks beyond the university space. I am especially grateful that we continue to collaborate on academic articles, a partnership that continues to enrich my development.