Brenda Andrews champions young voices in Johannesburg

For Brenda Andrews, empowering young people starts with giving them the knowledge and confidence to participate in their communities.

A passionate civic educator and advocate for youth participation, Andrews has dedicated much of her career to education, community empowerment and strengthening young people's involvement in local governance.

“Education is not just about filling minds; it's about nurturing active citizens who can shape their communities," she says.

Raised in Riverlea, Andrews grew up witnessing the challenges faced by her community. Her parents taught her the importance of hard work and perseverance, lessons that would become central to her own journey. Her passion for education took shape when she enrolled at Rand College of Education and discovered her love for teaching.

“My time at college was pivotal. It ignited a fire in me to not just educate but to inspire change," she says.

Andrews spent more than 16 years in the classroom, gaining extensive experience in learner development and programme implementation. Her career took a new direction when she joined the City of Johannesburg in 2008, where her passion for civic engagement and youth development became a key focus.

Inspired by the vision of former Speaker of Council Councillor Nkele Ntingane, Andrews played an important role in advancing the Joburg Student Council as a platform for young people to express their views and participate in local governance.

The Student Council was launched in 2007 under the leadership of the Director of Public Participation, Kureish Isaacs, and was followed by the establishment of the Children's Council in 2008. The programmes have provided young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage with local government and contribute their ideas on issues affecting their communities.

Andrews' work has also involved finding innovative ways to connect with schools and improve participation. As communication technology evolved, the programme moved away from traditional methods such as faxing and embraced digital platforms such as WhatsApp.

“We had to move from fax machines to faster, more reliable forms of communication," she says. “It's about building connections and ensuring that every student feels included and valued."

For Andrews, the greatest reward is seeing young people realise that their voices matter. “When young people see their ideas considered, it empowers them to dream bigger."

Her journey demonstrates how education and civic participation can help develop confident young leaders who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

Her message to young women aspiring to leadership is equally clear: remain true to yourself, embrace your strengths and use your abilities to drive positive change.

“Embrace your skills to inspire innovation and effect meaningful change," she says.

Through her continued commitment to civic education and youth empowerment, Andrews is helping ensure that Johannesburg's young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow, but active citizens today.

Written by Tinyiko Barbara Ngobeni
28/08/2026

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