Nonjabulo Sokhela leads South Africa’s energy transformation with vision, integrity and inclusive intent. As chief executive of Nepoworx Renewable Energy Institution, she drives strategy, operations and business development for a purpose-driven organisation. Her foundation in logistics and supply-chain management, coupled with an MSc in global energy and climate policy from SOAS, University of London, equips her to bridge technical expertise and social impact. At Nepoworx, she champions training and capacity building for youth and marginalised communities, aligning green economy goals with community needs. Nonjabulo, 30, serves on the National Business Initiative’s Just Energy Transition Working Group, SAPVIA’s Solar PV Committee, and G20 platforms such as Startup20 and Y20 — where she advocates for clean energy, youth inclusion and policy reform. As an SDG7 Youth Ambassador, she amplifies voices often left out of the global climate agenda. Rooted in KwaDabeka, KwaZulu-Natal, and inspired by her family’s unwavering belief in her potential, she leads with empathy and resolve.
There are two individuals I deeply admire, each for their extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to serving others: Nelson Mandela and Simon Sinek. Nelson Mandela stands out as a universally respected leader whose legacy transcends borders. What I admire most about him is his unshakeable commitment to justice and the people of South Africa. Even when offered early release from prison in the 1980s, he refused because the conditions undermined the very principles of freedom and dignity he stood for. His words still resonate: “Negotiations could only take place when real freedom was on the table, not conditional, symbolic gestures.” His leadership was marked by courage, sacrifice and a profound sense of responsibility to his country. Today, we enjoy the fruits of democracy because of the determination and vision of leaders such as Mandela and Oliver Tambo. I also draw inspiration from Simon Sinek, a contemporary thought leader whose work centres on purpose-driven leadership. His vision — “to build a world where the vast majority of people wake up inspired, feel safe at work and return home fulfilled” — is rooted in compassion, empathy and human-centred leadership. He reminds us that leadership is not about authority but about serving others and leading with purpose. Both figures inspire me to lead with integrity and to contribute meaningfully towards building an inclusive, equitable and hopeful future for all.