Ayanda Ngwane (Yaya of Africa) Emerges Leading Voice in Pan-African Media, Geopolitics, and Development Communication

By Korede Omololu-David

Ayanda Ngwane, popularly known as Yaya of Africa, is gaining increasing recognition across the continent and beyond as a leading multimedia journalist, television host, and media entrepreneur championing African narratives on the global stage.

With a career spanning South Africa, Nigeria, Angola, and multiple African regions, Ayanda has built a reputation as a dynamic storyteller and strategic media professional committed to reshaping conversations around African development, geopolitics, and socio-economic transformation. Her work consistently amplifies African perspectives while fostering informed dialogue between policymakers, investors, civil society, and global partners.

Ayanda is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ayanda Media Network, a Pan-African content and strategy hub focused on media production, public relations consulting, development communication, and strategic storytelling. Through the network, she leads initiatives that highlight African innovation, leadership, and global relevance.

She is also the Host and Executive Producer of Sharing with Ayanda TV, a widely followed platform known for its in-depth interviews, policy discussions, and cultural showcases featuring influential voices from Africa and the diaspora. The program has become a space for meaningful conversations on leadership, diplomacy, culture, and economic opportunity.

Currently, Ayanda serves as the Managing Editor of Neptune Prime, Editor-in-Chief of the Diplomatic Envoy Newsletter, and Co-Convener of the Geopolitics Series, where she contributes thought leadership on international relations and global affairs from an African lens. Her editorial leadership previously extended to LeVogue Magazine, a flagship lifestyle publication under Nigeria’s Leadership Newspaper.

Her international journalism experience includes work with Russia Today (RT) and BRICS media platforms, where she has provided commentary and analysis on global governance, economic development, and South-South cooperation. Ayanda began her professional journey at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), a foundation that shaped her expansive continental and global media footprint.

Beyond journalism, Ayanda has played key media and PR roles for high-profile platforms such as the World Economic Forum (African Chapter), the African Women in Leadership Conference, and the African Achievers Awards, helping elevate African-led initiatives to international prominence.

Her contributions have earned multiple recognitions, including being named an African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO) Honouree, recipient of the African Leading Women Awards (2020), and leading her company to win Fastest Growing Independent Media Production House at the Africa CEO Awards (2021). She also served as Media and Consulting Partner for the African Achievers Awards in 2021.

Ayanda holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Multimedia from CityVarsity, South Africa’s leading media institution. She continues to expand her expertise through global collaborations, professional engagements, and ongoing work in media, diplomacy, and development communication.

Through her influential digital presence as Yaya of Africa, Ayanda connects with diverse global audiences, promoting Pan-African integration, women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and social justice. Her platforms are increasingly viewed as bridges between Africa and the world—facilitating dialogue, trade, investment, and shared prosperity.

The collaboration between Ayanda Media and Forbes represents a strategic partnership aimed at promoting and showcasing exceptional African talent, innovation, and leadership on a global platform.

By partnering with Forbes, a renowned and respected business and leadership magazine, Ayanda Media seeks to amplify the profiles of African entrepreneurs, leaders, and visionaries who have achieved success through dedication, hard work, and integrity.

This collaboration aligns with Ayanda Media’s mission to promote, profile, and brand Africans who excel in their fields, while maintaining the highest standards of ethics and transparency.

Through this partnership, Ayanda Media and Forbes aim to:

Showcase Africa’s best and brightest in business, leadership, and innovation

Provide a global platform for African voices and perspectives

Foster international connections and opportunities for African entrepreneurs and leaders

Promote African excellence and leadership on the world stage