The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is once again well represented among the young South Africans recognised in the Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans 2026, with members of the UJ community recognised for their contributions across fields ranging from technology and innovation to education, law, governance and media.
The annual Mail & Guardian initiative celebrates young South Africans who are making a meaningful impact in their respective fields and communities. The 2026 cohort reflects the breadth of talent and leadership emerging from, and connected to, the University.
Among those recognised is second-year LLB student Thatego Phala, whose academic achievements and commitment to constitutional values have already earned national attention. The Mail & Guardian describes Phala as an academically recognised student at UJ. His achievements include being invited to recite the Preamble to the Constitution before President Cyril Ramaphosa and the National Assembly during the Milestone of Freedom launch.
UJ’s strength in technology and innovation is reflected in the recognition of academics and postgraduate students working at the forefront of research and innovation.
Dr Khutso Lebea, Deputy Head of Informatics in UJ’s Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering, is recognised for his work spanning human-computer interaction, cybersecurity, privacy in smart environments and distributed systems. His recognition highlights the contribution of young academics working to address emerging technological challenges.
Master’s student in Food Technology Marutha Promise is recognised for combining scientific research with leadership, mentorship and community engagement. While pursuing her master’s degree at UJ, she has also contributed to the University’s Community Engagement Programme, demonstrating how academic development can be coupled with meaningful service to society.
Tebogo Lucky Mamela, a PhD candidate in Data Science at UJ, and Dr Jairus Jerry Lesibana Lamola, who holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry from UJ, further illustrate the University’s contribution to developing researchers equipped to address complex scientific and technological challenges.
The University’s commitment to education, social justice and community impact is similarly reflected among those recognised in the Education, Training and Skills Development category.
Dr Ockert Pretorius, a senior lecturer at UJ, is recognised for his contribution to urban planning and the development of future professionals who can respond to the challenges facing rapidly changing cities.
Dr Babalwa Tyabashe-Phume, a lecturer in UJ’s Department of Social Work and Community Development, is recognised for work grounded in social justice, human dignity and advocacy for vulnerable communities.
The recognition also extends into politics and governance. Mzwakhe Mdhluli, a senior tutor in UJ’s School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, represented the University at the Southern African Universities Debate Championship, where he finished as the 11th-ranked speaker in the open category. He also led Team National Treasury to victory in the Young Economics Debating Challenge.
UJ alumnus Malesela Wilfred Ledwaba, who holds a BA in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from the University, is recognised for his work supporting young people from informal settlements. His initiative assists learners with university applications, financial aid and the transition into employment, helping create pathways to opportunity for young people who might otherwise face significant barriers.
In Justice, Law and Human Rights, UJ is represented through the work of law researcher Rethabile Segone. A researcher at UJ’s Centre for Banking Law and an LLD candidate, Segone is exploring how South African law should respond to the digitalisation of trade finance, positioning his work at the intersection of law, technology and global commerce.
UJ’s contribution extends into film, media and broadcasting, where the University’s platforms continue to provide opportunities for emerging media professionals.
Anathi Sidali, Senior Manager of UJ Broadcasting, is recognised for his work at the intersection of broadcasting, branding and digital innovation, contributing to the University’s media platforms and its engagement with diverse audiences.
Livhuwani Dagada is also associated with UJ Broadcasting, UJFM and UJTV, reflecting the role of the University’s broadcasting ecosystem in developing and showcasing young media talent.
The M&G profiles also highlight the wider reach of the UJ community and its academic networks. Ziyanda Ngwendu’s profile references her engagement with academic platforms at the University of Johannesburg, while Dr Shelly Mona is recognised in connection with UJ’s Exceptional Academic Achievement Doctoral Award.
The recognition of UJ students, academics, staff and alumni across such diverse fields reflects the depth and breadth of talent within the University community, as well as the many ways in which that talent is making a meaningful contribution to South African society.
The recognition also builds on UJ’s strong and sustained presence in the Mail & Guardian’s annual 200 Young South Africans initiative. In 2025, UJ students, staff and alumni featured prominently across the cohort, underscoring the University’s continued contribution to developing young South Africans who are shaping their fields, communities and the country’s future.
The 2026 cohort further illustrates the reach and impact of the UJ community, from researchers advancing new knowledge and technologies and academics shaping future professionals, to students challenging conventions, alumni creating opportunities, and media practitioners using their platforms to inform, influence and connect communities. Collectively, their achievements reflect the distinctive role UJ plays in nurturing talent with the ambition, capability and purpose to make a difference.
