Nkosinathi Ndlovu is a highly respected South African disability rights leader, political activist, humanitarian, and internationally acclaimed award-winning advocate who has dedicated his life to empowering people with disabilities, the youth and marginalised communities.
As CEO of the South African Disability Development Organisation (SADDO), he has been instrumental in promoting inclusive education, economic empowerment, gender equality, healthcare programs for people with disabilities and eradication of communication barriers between the Deaf and hearing communities in South Africa.
Achievements and Awards
Ndlovu has received numerous accolades for his work, including:
- The National Order of the Baobab in Silver for his excellent contribution to the fight for the recognition of the rights of people with disabilities in 2018, Presidency.
- 2022 Henry Viscardi Achievement Awards (USA) for his contributions to disability rights
- 2021 D-30 Disability Impact List (USA) for his impact on the disability community
- COVID-19 African Heroes for his efforts during the pandemic ,2021
- Batho Pele National Excellence Awards (SA) – for his commitment to public service excellence, 2013, National Department of Public Service and Administration
Leadership Roles
Nkosinathi Ndlovu has held various leadership positions, including:
- National Deputy Chairperson, Project365 National Movement for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) (2010-2019)
- President, South African Deaf Youth Development Project (2013 -2017)
- Founder and Executive Chairperson, Nkosinathi Ndlovu Foundation (2015 – present)
- Advisory Member, Presidential Working Group on Disability in the Presidency of the Republic of South Africa (2014 – present)
- African Council of Youth Advocates (ACCRA) (2021 – 2023) – Ghana
- Member of the National Executive Council (NEC) Disabled People of South Africa (DPSA) (2023 – present)
- Diversability Leadership Collective (2021- 2023) – USA
- Global Youth Parliament (2020 – 2021) – Nepal
Quote
“Empowering people with disabilities is not only a moral imperative, but a necessary step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.” – Nkosinathi Ndlovu
