The 2025-2027 Special Olympics South Africa members of the Global Youth Leadership Council
Johannesburg, South Africa – Special Olympics South Africa is proud to celebrate International Youth Day with an incredible announcement—our very own athlete leader Lumka Ndileka Gogela, her Unified partner Zamangwe Lebogang Mazibuko, and their mentor Busangani Mazibuko have been selected to represent South Africa on the 2025–2027 Global Youth Leadership Council (GYLC).
This prestigious appointment places our youth leaders on the highest platform of youth leadership within the Special Olympics movement, where they will join 16 youth leaders from 8 countries across all seven global regions, including the host nation for the 2027 World Games, Special Olympics Chile.
“We are deeply honoured and grateful that Lumka, Zamangwe, and Busangani will be raising the Special Olympics South Africa flag high on this global stage,” said Ancilla Smith, CEO of Special Olympics South Africa. “Their voices, commitment, and leadership embody the spirit of inclusion and empowerment for all people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).”
International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12, recognises the vital role that young people play in building more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable societies. This year’s celebration underscores Special Olympics’ commitment to empowering youth as changemakers who drive inclusion through sport, education, and advocacy. The Global Youth Leadership Council members will serve a two-year term, guiding global youth programming, shaping local and regional initiatives, and playing a pivotal role in the 2027 Global Youth Leadership Summit during the Special Olympics World Games in Santiago, Chile.
For South Africa, this achievement is not just about representation — it is a powerful statement about empowerment and opportunity for people with IDD. By taking their place on the GYLC, Lumka and Zamangwe demonstrate that leadership knows no boundaries, ability, or disability. They will bring forward the perspectives, creativity, and lived experiences of young people with and without IDD, ensuring that inclusion is not just spoken about but actively built in communities around the world.
“Our new Council members exemplify the full potential of youth leadership,” stated Jackie Jodl, Chief Education Officer at Special Olympics International. “Their ideas, energy, and lived experience will help shape a more inclusive world — from the field of play to classrooms and communities and ultimately to the global stage.” Special Olympics South Africa congratulates Lumka, Zamangwe, and Busangani on this milestone. It stands proudly behind them as they embark on this extraordinary journey to change perceptions, break barriers, and inspire action for people with IDD everywhere.
To learn more about the Global Youth Leadership Council and meet the new members, visit https://www.specialolympics.org/what-we-do/youth-and-schools/youth-leaders/council.
