Mbabane – Nathi Gule has been re-elected as Chairperson of the Southern African Freelancers’ Association (Safrea), extending his leadership for a third consecutive term following the organisation’s annual elections held after its Annual General Meeting.
Gule was elected alongside a new Board that will serve during the 2026/27 term under Safrea’s revised governance structure, which replaces the former Executive Committee (EXCO) with a Board responsible for providing strategic leadership across the association’s operations.
The governance changes were approved by members during the restructuring process and took effect following the Annual General Meeting on June 24 and the election of office-bearers on June 30.
Speaking after his election, Gule said he was grateful for the confidence members had placed in him and the incoming Board.
“We’re looking forward to a new year of service and development, filled with a new energy,” he said.
He described his re-election as a reflection of members’ trust in the leadership while expressing appreciation for their participation in both the Annual General Meeting and the nomination process.
According to Gule, the new Board combines experienced leaders with new members who will work together to expand opportunities for freelancers across Southern Africa.
“We have assembled a team that combines continuity with fresh perspectives. Together, we are committed to building on the progress of recent years while expanding the opportunities, support and professional community that Safrea offers freelancers throughout Southern Africa,” he said.
He said the Board’s priorities for the coming year include representing members’ interests, expanding professional development opportunities, increasing member participation, securing sustainable funding and developing partnerships that benefit freelance journalists and communicators.
The 2026/27 Board comprises Gule as Chairperson, Kay Johnstone as Vice-Chairperson, Hush Naidoo as Treasurer, Mandi Smallhorne heading Advocacy, Deryn Graham overseeing Membership Policy and Applications, Marielle Tappan responsible for Membership Groups, Saskia Meintjes leading Professional Development, Whitemore Ngwira overseeing Fundraising and Antony Kaminju responsible for Communications.
The association has also appointed an Advisory Committee comprising Paul Bedford, Solly Moeng and Adrian Galley to provide guidance to the Board.
Gule also paid tribute to members who served under the previous governance structure, saying their contribution had helped prepare the association for its next phase.
Safrea further thanked its strategic partners WGSA, SANEF, PEG and SASJA for their continued support of freelance journalists and communications professionals across Southern Africa.
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