Mbabane – The Southern Africa Freelancers Association (SAfrea) re-elected Eswatini’s Nathi Gule as the board chairperson under the revised constitution.
Gule was re-elected in the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 24 June 2026, whereas the subsequent election of office bearers happened on 30 June.
“We’re looking forward to a new year of service and development, filled with a new energy,” says Gule. 
This will be Gule’s third term after being successfully re-elected in the previous two AGMs, a sign of confidence from the freelancers in his leadership and the whole board.
The appointments follow the implementation of Safrea’s new governance structure, approved by members as part of their restructuring process.
Under the new model, the elected office-bearers now constitute the board, providing strategic leadership across Safrea’s key areas of focus. In the past term, they were referred to as an EXCO but are now a board.
The 2026/27 board comprises:
- Chair: Nathi Gule
- Vice-Chair: Kay Johnstone
- Treasurer: Hush Naidoo
- Advocacy: Mandi Smallhorne
- Membership Policy and Applications: Deryn Graham
- Membership Groups: Marielle Tappan
- Professional Development: Saskia Meintjes
- Fundraising: Whitemore Ngwira
- Communications: Antony Kaminju
Supporting the board, Paul Bedford, Solly Moeng and Adrian Galley, whose experience will help guide the association as it continues to strengthen its services to members, form the advisory committee.
Gule thanked the members for their active participation in the AGM and the nomination process, as well as their confidence in the new board.
“The governance changes adopted this year mark an important milestone in Safrea’s evolution. They position us to work more effectively, strengthen accountability and ensure that every area of our work receives dedicated strategic attention.”
Gule said the incoming board brought together a diverse range of skills and experience drawn from across the freelance media and communications sector.
“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 added that the board would continue to be guided by members’ priorities as the association implemented its strategic objectives.
“Our focus remains firmly on creating value for our members through advocacy, professional development, stronger member engagement, sustainable fundraising and meaningful partnerships. We look forward to working with members as we continue building an inclusive, resilient and future-focused association.”
Gule also expressed appreciation to those who had served the association under its previous governance structure.
“Safrea has benefited enormously from the dedication of those who have served on previous executive and oversight structures. Their commitment has helped lay the foundations for this next chapter, and we thank them sincerely for their service.”
Safrea also extends its sincere appreciation to its strategic partners – WGSA, SANEF, PEG and SASJA – for their continued support in advancing the interests of freelance journalists and communicators across the region.
For more information about Safrea, visit www.safrea.co.za.
