Naledi Pandor named new Chair of Nelson Mandela Foundation

The Nelson Mandela Foundation’s Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Naledi Pandor as its new Chair. Pandor will be the third individual to hold this position since the Foundation’s inception in 1999, succeeding founding Chair, Professor Jakes Gerwel. Her term officially began on October 1, 2024.

Pandor’s appointment follows the retirement of Professor Njabulo Ndebele, who devoted 25 years to the Board, including over a decade as its Chair.

Commenting on her selection, Professor Ndebele stated, “Dr. Pandor brings exactly what the Foundation needs for its next phase of growth. I wish her great success in this role.” Reflecting on his own retirement, he added, “It’s time for me to step back, make way for new leadership, and embark on a new chapter in my life.”

The Board and staff of the Foundation expressed their deep appreciation for Ndebele’s remarkable service and leadership. Acting Chief Executive Professor Verne Harris acknowledged his contributions, saying, “Professor Ndebele has been a guiding force for us through both triumphant and challenging times.”

Pandor has an extensive history of working alongside Nelson Mandela during South Africa’s first democratic government in the 1990s and is one of the country’s longest-serving parliamentarians. She has held numerous leadership roles, most recently serving as Minister of International Relations. “I am deeply honored and excited to take on this role,” said Pandor.

“In a world filled with complex challenges, it’s more important than ever to champion Madiba’s legacy. I believe the Nelson Mandela Foundation is doing critical work in the sphere of social justice, and I am eager to make a meaningful impact.”

The ceremonial transition of leadership took place at the 22nd Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture last week. Both Dr. Pandor and Professor Ndebele attended the event, which featured Nobel Prize winner Abdulrazak Gurnah as the keynote speaker. The lecture, themed “Realizing our Shared Humanity,” was held on Saturday, September 28.