Asanda started her activism during her studies, engaging with Youth Organisations and later moving into political leadership roles. She completed a BA in Politics in 2012 and pursued an Honours in Politics. She also earned qualifications in Evidence-Based Policy Making and Implementation from the University of Cape Town, and Policy Research Training and Academic Writing Skills from the University of Stellenbosch.
Asanda participated in the 2015 #FeesMustFall movement and contributed a chapter to the book “We Are No Longer At Ease: The Struggle for #FeesMustFall.” She later joined the ANC Parliamentary Caucus in Cape Town as a researcher. Her achievements include winning the International Organisation for Migration Competition, earning an educational trip to the African Union Headquarters, and being a finalist for the 2015 Moremi Initiative Women’s Leadership in Africa (MILEAD) Fellows Programme.
She was appointed by the Minister of Higher Education and Training and now serves as a Council Member at Ingwe TVET College, where she chairs the Donor Funding and Stakeholder Relations Committee. In 2021, President Cyril Matamela Ramaposa appointed her as the Executive Chairperson of the Board of Directors at the NYDA, a position she currently holds.
On Youth Political Participation
“Young people must recognise their power in preserving democracy through voting, as it shapes policies that address their specific needs and priorities.”
The WYDE Civic Engagement Network of Young Decision-Makers unites young leaders under 36 years old who are active in politics and decision-making roles, aiming to enhance youth political participation. Members, hailing from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, will collaborate with peers and Club de Madrid Members to shape global agendas through Policy Labs, fostering informed collective action.
The WYDE Civic Engagement project is a component of the Women and Youth in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) by the European Commission. The project aims to empower youth voices, foster international cooperation, and address the gaps in evidence on youth political engagement. More info on the project can be found on EPD’s website.
