​Johannesburg Development Age​ncy's (JD​A)​ Marama Nkosi was recently named Second Runner-Up for Records Manager of the Year 2026 award. The recognition came at the second annual National Records Management Conference recently hosted by The National Archives and Re​cords Service of South Africa (NARSSA). Nkosi's recognition highlights her exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication to strengthening records management, accountability and good governance at the JDA.

​​Nkosi, an Information and Document Specialist, says she was elated when her name was called out. “Records management is often behind the scenes, so being recognised for my contribution felt so humbling.

“An organisation cannot function without proper record management systems in place. We need evidence when the auditor-general visits," she says

As Nkosi approached the stage to receive her award, the announcer highlighted some of the work that had earned her national recognition.

“Nkosi has enhanced the records management policy. She has led digital transformation in the organisation, and the standardised records processes that have improved accessibility, retrieval and audit readiness. She has ensured that records management is embedded as a strategic governance function," the announcer said.

Nkosi is responsible for ensuring that JDA's information is properly managed and protected throughout its lifecycle. She develops and improves records management policies, procedures and systems to ensure compliance with legislation and best practices. What she loves most about her job is that records tell a story about an organisation.

“My job is to make sure that reliable information is available when needed to support decision making," she explains.

Since joining JDA in 2021, she's implemented an index list of all the records and developed structures to digitise the documents through SharePoint. She has also drafted a policy and pioneered digital transformation.

“I remain passionate about records management and committed to continuous learning, growing and encouraging others to recognise the value of good records keeping."

Before joining JDA, Nkosi worked at the Engineering Council of South Africa, the South African Bureau of Standards and the South African National Accreditation Systems. She holds a National Diploma in Commercial Administration, a BTech in Office Management and Technology, Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management and is currently pursuing a Master's in Management Specialising in Governance.

Growing up in Ga-Rankuwa, north-west of Pretoria, she saw her father always keeping records of everything including school fees receipts organised by month in envelopes. This stimulated her interest in records management.

When she's not travelling or studying, Nkosi enjoys time with her loved ones.

Written by Brümilda Swartbooi
25/09/2026

 
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