Young media strategist inspires Albermarle youth

South Africa marks Youth Month in June, with June 16 serving as a significant day to honour the 1976 student uprising.

This period flows into Mandela Month in July, with both focusing on public service, youth development and active citizenship.

One person reflecting the spirit of this season is Nokulunga Ngcobo, a 24-year-old from Albermarle who recently shared the stage with the mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, during the Youth Community Fair 2026 on June 19, where she served as the MC.

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Ngcobo said the opportunity was a major milestone as she had always hoped to host an event for the City of Ekurhuleni.

“I was approached by Neo Mcilingo, someone who has believed in my potential and supported my journey from the beginning,” she said.

She described her appointment as a reflection of the city’s commitment to investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to grow.

“Opportunities like these don’t just build careers, they build confidence and remind young people that they belong in leadership spaces,” said Ngcobo.

Ngcobo works as an independent media and entertainment strategist, partnering with brands and radio stations to bring campaigns to life. Her work includes strategy implementation, media buying, campaign execution and professional event facilitation.

“At its core, my role is about connecting brands with audiences through strategic media, compelling storytelling and memorable live experiences,” she said.

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She said the highlight of the event was standing next to the mayor and witnessing young people fully engaged throughout the programme.

“Seeing their excitement and knowing I contributed to creating that atmosphere made the day incredibly special,” she said.

Ngcobo believes young people are already making meaningful contributions and should be recognised and invested in.

“Their voices, ideas and potential deserve to be recognised and invested in,” she said.

She added that the mayor was encouraging after the event and praised her for her performance.

“Those words meant a great deal to me because, as an MC, my goal is always to create energy, connection and an experience that people genuinely enjoy,” she said.

Speaking on challenges facing young people, Ngcobo said access to opportunities remains one of the biggest barriers.

“There is no shortage of talent, but many young people simply need someone to believe in them and provide platforms where they can grow,” she said.

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She believes more mentorship programmes, internships, entrepreneurship support and practical industry exposure could help unlock young people’s potential.

“Sometimes one opportunity is enough to completely change someone’s future.”

Ngcobo’s spirit strongly resonates with the youth of the CoE, as she encourages young people to remain focused and keep working hard, even when no one is watching.

“Believe in yourself, stay consistent and trust that your time will come,” she said.

She believes purpose is found in serving others and says her goal is always to create meaningful connections and leave every space better than she found it, whether working behind strategy, behind a microphone or on stage.

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Born and raised on the East Rand, Ngcobo credits her upbringing and supportive parents for shaping her resilience, sense of community and desire to create opportunities for others.

“I was raised to value integrity, humility, excellence and service. I believe every opportunity deserves your very best,” she said.

Ngcobo is currently studying public relations and communications at the University of Johannesburg while building her career in media and communications.

She said balancing work and studies has strengthened her discipline, resilience and time management.

“Communication management is my favourite subject because it aligns with the work I do every day and allows me to bridge theory with practical experience,” she said.

She is building her career at the intersection of media strategy, communications, broadcasting and live events. Her work includes campaign implementation, media buying, brand partnerships and professional event facilitation.

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“I’ve always been inspired by the power of communication to influence, connect and create opportunities. Being able to use my voice and strategic thinking to make a meaningful impact is what drives me,” she said.

Looking ahead, Ngcobo sees herself leading impactful communications campaigns, facilitating major national and international events, growing her presence in broadcasting and mentoring young professionals entering the media industry.

She also hopes to create more accessible pathways for young people to enter the media and communications space through mentorship and real opportunities.

Ngcobo says public speaking has always come naturally to her and over time evolved into a meaningful career.

“Preparation keeps me calm before big moments. Confidence isn’t the absence of nerves, it’s knowing you’ve done the work long before stepping onto the stage,” she said.

She believes success is about using one’s gifts to serve others while creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

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“My message to young people is simple: don’t allow your current circumstances to define your future. Keep preparing, keep learning and keep believing in yourself. The opportunities you dream about often arrive when preparation meets purpose.”

Reflecting on the Youth Community Fair 2026, Ngcobo said the experience affirmed that she is walking in purpose.

“It reminded me that every opportunity arrives at the right time and that excellence is always rewarded. That moment opened new doors and strengthened my confidence,” said Ngcobo.