Nhlanhla Gordon ‘Nhleks’ Mayisela: From Soweto’s Struggle to Community Leadership
Born and raised in Ward 47, Soweto, Nhlanhla Gordon “Nhleks” Mayisela’s journey reflects a life shaped by political activism, perseverance and community involvement. A long-standing member of the African National Congress (ANC), Mayisela currently serves as the party’s Ward 47 branch chairperson and is a councillor candidate.
Born on 16 May, Mayisela’s early life was marked by financial challenges that tested his determination to pursue an education. Despite attending school without paying school fees, he persevered through various educational institutions, an experience that he says has influenced his commitment to improving opportunities for young people and vulnerable members of the community.
An Educational Journey Built on Perseverance
Mayisela began his schooling at Uvuyo Primary School, where he attended Sub A, before moving to Thathezakho Primary School for Sub B to Standard Two. He continued at Enkolweni Higher Primary School from Standard Three to Five and later attended George Khoza for Standard Six.
He completed his matric at Jabulani Technical High School before pursuing further development in business, public relations, human resources and facilitation.
His qualifications include studies at Wits Business School through its P&DM programme, an Advanced National Diploma in Public Relations and Human Resources, a Certificate in Business Development Programme from Paradigm Development, an Advanced Certificate in FNB Training Facilitation and a qualification in module development, alongside other short courses.
His educational background forms part of a journey that combines formal learning with practical experience in political structures and community development.
A Political Journey Rooted in the Struggle
Mayisela’s involvement in political activism dates back to his school days, when he joined the student movement under SOSCO while in Standard Five.
During the apartheid era, he participated in the Soweto Civic Association (SCA) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) between 1986 and 1991. His biography also records his underground political involvement and participation in Self-Defence Units (SDUs), as well as SOYCO/SAYCO.
Following the unbanning of the ANC and its allied organisations, Mayisela became actively involved in the party and its structures, including the ANC Youth League, South African Communist Party (SACP) and the broader Mass Democratic Movement (MDM).
Over the years, he has held various positions within structures of the movement. He currently serves as the ANC branch chairperson in Ward 47, a role that places him at the centre of the party’s local organisational activities and engagement with residents.
His political journey, spanning different periods in South Africa’s history, forms an important part of his stated commitment to public service and community participation.
Community Service and Local Development
Beyond his political responsibilities, Mayisela’s biography highlights his involvement in addressing everyday challenges faced by residents.
His community work includes facilitating employment opportunities and helping young people access work. He has also assisted residents with Integrated Development Plan (IDP) processes, social challenges and efforts to secure placement in Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) housing.
In addition, he has been involved in establishing and mentoring youth and business formations, with the aim of supporting local economic development and creating opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.
These activities reflect his stated focus on practical community concerns, including unemployment, housing, youth development and access to municipal processes.
For Ward 47 residents, these issues remain important areas of local governance, requiring sustained engagement between communities, political representatives and relevant institutions.
Turning Personal Challenges into a Commitment to Education
Mayisela’s experience of completing his schooling without paying school fees is a defining part of his personal story.
Rather than allowing financial hardship to determine his future, he continued pursuing opportunities for education and professional development.
According to his biography, this experience has strengthened his resolve to ensure that children in Ward 47 are not left behind.
His stated priorities include expanding opportunities for young people and supporting initiatives that respond to the social and economic challenges affecting local households.
Answering the Call to Serve Ward 47
Mayisela’s decision to pursue the councillor candidacy, according to his biography, followed encouragement from fellow ANC members and calls from members of the Ward 47 community.
He says his motivation is not personal gain but an opportunity to contribute to restoring dignity, improving service delivery and promoting unity.
As a councillor candidate, his stated priorities centre on community needs and the principle of putting people first. The extent to which these priorities can be realised would depend on the commitments made, the resources available and the processes of local government.
His candidacy also places renewed attention on the issues residents consider most urgent, including access to employment, housing, youth development and responsive service delivery.
Looking Ahead
From his early involvement in student activism to his current role as ANC branch chairperson in Ward 47, Nhlanhla Gordon “Nhleks” Mayisela’s biography traces a path through political organising, further education and community engagement.
His story is one of perseverance in the face of financial hardship and continued participation in political and community structures.
As Ward 47 considers its future leadership, Mayisela has presented his candidacy as a call to serve, guided by the principles of selflessness, loyalty and putting the people first.
His stated ambition is to contribute to a community where residents’ concerns are heard, opportunities are expanded and service delivery remains a central priority.