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Chief Whip of Council - Councillor Pelisa Nkunjana

Chief Whip’s Profile

Councillor Pelisa Nkunjana is a distinguished leader and dedicated public servant with a lifelong commitment to community development, political activism, and ethical governance. She currently serves as the Whip of Council for the City of Ekurhuleni, a role she assumed in September 2024, where she ensures discipline, cohesion, and coordination among councillors to enhance the functionality of Council proceedings.

A Journey Rooted in Activism and Leadership

Cllr. Nkunjana’s journey in public service began as a student leader at Mzikayise High School in Etwatwa, where she served as the SRC Secretary from 1995 to 1997. She joined the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in 1993 and rose through the ranks to serve at all levels of the organisation — from Branch Secretary to Ekurhuleni Deputy Regional Secretary, Gauteng Provincial Deputy Secretary, and eventually as a member of the ANCYL National Executive Committee.

She has served in senior structures of the African National Congress (ANC), including as Deputy Regional Secretary of ANC Ekurhuleni (2018–2022) and a member of the Regional Executive Committee (REC) since 2014. In 2023, she was appointed to the ANC Regional Task Team. She also holds membership in SANCO and the South African Communist Party (SACP), demonstrating her continued dedication to progressive political alliances.

Public Office and Governance

Cllr. Nkunjana’s political experience is matched by her extensive administrative service. Her career in local government began in 2001 as a Ward Committee Member, followed by her election in 2006 as one of Ekurhuleni’s youngest ward councillors. Since then, she has held key roles in various council structures, including:

  • Chairperson of the ANC Youth Caucus
  • Chairperson of the GEYWODI Standing Committee
  • Oversight Chairperson for Human Settlements and Finance

In 2011, she became the youngest Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), initially responsible for Roads and Stormwater, later transitioning to Corporate and Shared Services, and ultimately leading the Department of Transport and Fleet Management until the 2021 local government elections.

Education and Personal Development

Cllr. Nkunjana is a firm believer in continuous learning and self-improvement. She holds an impressive array of academic and executive qualifications, including:

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Leadership and Sustainability – University of Combria, Switzerland
  • Master’s in Public Management – Regenesys School of Public Management
  • Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Management – Regenesys
  • Post-Graduate Certificate in Management Studies – University of Combria (UK)
  • Executive certificates in:
    • Greening the Economy
    • Sustainable Cities and Urban Infrastructure (World Bank Institution & UCT)
    • Leadership in Local Government
    • Management Development for Municipal Finance (Wits Business School)
    • Leadership in Municipal Governance (Wits School of Governance)
    • African Feminism & Gender Studies (UNISA – TMALI)

She has also completed training at several political schools, including the Walter Sisulu and OR Tambo Political Schools, covering all available modules.

A Role Model for Future Generations

Known for her resilience, humility, and work ethic, Councillor Nkunjana stands as an inspirational figure to young women and girls across South Africa. Her story is a testament to what is possible for a township girl with a dream to serve and uplift her community.