From Silo to Synergy: Young Water Professionals South Africa Chapter Driving Collaboration in the Water Sector

The IWA & WISA Young Water Professionals (YWPs) South Africa Chapter marked yet another milestone in strengthening youth leadership within the country's water sector by successfully hosting the 8th Biennial Conference from the 25th to the 27th of November 2025 in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The theme, “From Silos to Synergies: Sustainable and Collaborative Water Management Solutions,” built on the momentum of the 7th YWP Conference, themed “Breaking Silos”. This reflects a deliberate shift towards integration, collaboration and cross-sector engagement in water resources management.

The conference, as a knowledge-sharing platform, brought together students, young professionals, emerging researchers, industry experts, and institutional partners to share research, innovative solutions, and practical approaches to address water resources challenges. With over 100 delegates in attendance, the conference provided a dedicated space for emerging voices to engage directly with established professionals, build networks, and help shape the future of water resources management, governance and science in South Africa.  

The technical programme featured over 70 oral presentations, workshops and posters covering a broad range of themes, including innovative water technologies, governance and policy integration, sustainability, climate resilience and data-driven water management. This depth of participation reflects the growing role of young professionals in generating relevant research and applied solutions for the sector.

A highlight of the conference was the gala dinner and awards ceremony, which recognised excellence in research quality, innovation and presentation. Awards were presented for the best oral and poster presentations, as well as the best presentations within each conference theme. These awards not only acknowledged individual achievement but also showcased the high standard of work being produced by young professionals in South Africa’s water sector.

The success of the conference was made possible through the generous support of our partners and sponsors. The Water Research Commission (WRC) served as the anchor sponsor, demonstrating continued commitment to advancing water research and developing young professionals in the sector. Additional sponsorship and support were provided by Umgeni-uThukela Water (UUW), PPS, and the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA). Their contributions enabled broader participation, strengthened programme delivery and reinforced the shared commitment to building capacity and leadership in South Africa’s water sector. 

Conference Planning Committee from the left: Craig Tanyanyiwa (Technical Committee Chair), Jaco Seaman (WISA), Aluvuyo Bixa (Conference Chair), Philadelphia Ngobeni (Marketing Committee Chair), Nomandla Nxusa (Technical Committee Vice Chair), Kgadi Makgakga (Marketing Committee member), Boitumelo Matshediso (Finance Committee Chair), Nthabiseng Litabe (Marketing Committee Member), Lindiwe Nkabane (Exhibitions Committee Chair), Ntuthuko Majozi (WISA), Lindomusa Mabika (Technical Committee Member).  

Opening Plenary guest speakers from the left: Alivuyo Bixa (Conference Chair), Dr Mopfu (WISA), Ms Fundakubi (DWS&EWSETA Rep.), Lindiwe Nkabane (WISA YWP National Lead), Prof Stanley (WRC Rep.), Dr Goldman (WISA CEO).  

Conference Award Winners from the left: Makhosazane Magubane, Sambulisiwe Maseko, Malibongwe Manono, Nomcebo Ndlovu, Simnikiwe Majwete, Freddy Ndiwanga Rasifudi.