When Elgina Ndhlovu was 16, she attended a community meeting that sparked her interest in public affairs and community welfare. At the end of October, she is retiring from a career shaped by service, leadership and development. Since 2017, she has headed Integrated Business Planning, Risk and Compliance within the Department of Community Development. Her experience on both sides of public governance, as a politician and a public servant, has given her a broad understanding of the workings of local government.
“I got into an environment that I love, that is my passion. In a political environment. And fortunately, I've been on two sides of it. I've been a politician and I've been an official," she says.
Between 1993 and 2014, Ndhlovu held several political leadership positions. Her career included pioneering roles in Johannesburg local government, where she became the first woman Chief Whip in the Southern Metropolitan Local Council and the first woman Chair of Chairs in the City of Johannesburg.
Her transition into public administration began in 2014, when she was appointed Chief of Staff in the Office of the then Executive Mayor, Cllr Parks Tau. In 2016, she became Director of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Academy before joining Community Development the following year in her current role.
During her time at JMPD, Ndhlovu contributed to the implementation of the broader Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and the deployment of Hollard officers to assist with traffic management, helping to ease congestion during peak periods. She was also involved in transformation initiatives at the then Johannesburg Metropolis.
Before entering politics and local government, Elgina spent 10 years as a teacher. Her involvement in the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) and the civic association movement further strengthened her commitment to community affairs.
Throughout her career, she has remained conscious of the importance of creating opportunities for other women to lead.
“I've always been conscious that whatever I do, it has to be a good example that another woman will be appointed because I was there," she says.
Her academic qualifications include a teaching qualification from Vista University, a Risk Management qualification from Stellenbosch University and an Honours degree in Development Communication from the Wits School of Journalism. She has also completed various development programmes locally and internationally and is a qualified coach through the York Academy.
Reflecting on her time at the City, Ndhlovu expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside leaders who demonstrated integrity and accountability. Among those she acknowledges are Kenny Fihla and Pascal Moloi.
“We had very good leaders, leaders that never minced their words on wrongdoing," she says.
Ndhlovu plans to focus on promoting her three published e-books, Scars on My Face, Rejection and You Are a Jewel, while continuing her work in coaching and mentorship.
As she closes this chapter of her career, she says: “Thank you to everyone I've worked with, I've appreciated the guidance over the years."
Written by Brümilda Swartbooi
30/10/2026
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