The launch of The Life of a Councilor by author and public servant Andile Hoyi will feature a powerful conversation with lecturer Nculumanco Nanto from the University of Cape Town. The discussion will reflect on the realities of leadership, governance, public accountability, and community development through the lived experiences captured in the book. This thought-provoking engagement aims to create meaningful dialogue around the role of councillors in society and the responsibilities that come with serving the people.
The book provides readers with an inside perspective into the daily life of a councillor highlighting the challenges, sacrifices, political pressures, ethical responsibilities, and commitment required to serve communities effectively.
The publication explores important themes such as:
Community leadership and accountability
Service delivery challenges in municipalities
The relationship between councillors and communities
Political activism and governance
Ethical leadership and public trust
Youth participation and democratic development
Ultimately, Life of a Councillor is not only a story about politics, but also a story about public service, sacrifice, community development, and the ongoing struggle to build accountable and people-centred governance.
Production Credits
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA)
South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO)
Eastcape Midlands TVET College
Vision Axis Consulting and Publishing
About the Artists
Zanekhaya Andile Hoyi is a local government councillor, Chief Whip, and community leader based in Makana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. With years of experience in grassroots organisations, political leadership, and municipal governance, he has served at the intersection of community expectation and institutional constraint.
His leadership is grounded in lived experience, ethical commitment, and deep accountability to the communities he represents. Over the years, he has worked closely with residents, youth structures, civil society organisations, and municipal administrations, shaping a leadership approach that is people-centred and rooted in service.
Zanekhaya holds a Certificate in Housing Finance and Administration from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public administration at Regent Business School. He has further served in governance roles as a Board Member at Fort England Hospital, Themba Hospital, and Settlers Hospital, contributing to oversight, accountability, and improved public health service delivery.
He is particularly known for his focus on service delivery, youth empowerment, local economic development, and integrity-driven leadership, especially in environments marked by limited resources and high community expectation.
Leadership, Pressure, and Service in Local Government is his first book—a personal and reflective account of life on the frontline of democracy. Drawing on real encounters, difficult moments, and quiet victories, the book illuminates the human cost and moral responsibility of public office.
- Venue: The Black Power Station
- Location: The Old Power Station
- Programme type: The Fringe
- Genre: ArtTalk
- Duration: 120 minutes
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Ages:
ALL AGES
- Academic or Professional Content
