Daniel Ngwepe is someone who has dedicated his life to building bridges — between people, institutions, and ideas. With more than 25 years of experience across both the public and private sectors, he has earned a reputation as a strategic thinker, a relationship-builder, and a leader who works with steady conviction and purpose.

Today, he serves as one of the Executive Directors of the In Transformation Initiative (ITI), an organization focused on democratic transitions, inclusive socio-economic development, and peacebuilding in Africa and beyond. His work at ITI reflects his deep belief that sustainable change is only possible when government, business, and communities collaborate meaningfully.

Daniel’s academic journey laid a strong foundation for his career. He studied at the University of the North, completed further management studies at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), and earned a master’s degree from the University of the Witwatersrand. This combination of academic depth and practical experience defines his approach: thoughtful, analytical, and always focused on real-world impact.

For approximately 13 years, he served in South Africa’s foreign service, where he played a key role in strengthening bilateral economic and political relations between South Africa and the United States. During this time, he gained firsthand insight into how diplomacy, policy, and economic interests intersect — and how essential trust and dialogue are in shaping lasting partnerships.

He later joined Visa as Head of Government Relations for Sub-Saharan Africa. For nearly a decade, he operated at the intersection of finance and public policy, managing relationships with central banks, governments, and regulatory authorities. This experience gave him a unique perspective on how the private sector can play a constructive role in advancing development.

In November 2022, Daniel was appointed Executive Director of ITI, a role he formally assumed on 1 January 2023. In this capacity, he focuses on fostering strategic collaboration that supports economic growth, youth development, and community resilience. One of his notable contributions has been leading the Waterberg District Development pilot project, where he has facilitated local economic mobilization by strengthening cooperation between government, the private sector, and local communities.

Beyond his formal responsibilities, Daniel serves on several boards and in advisory capacities, including with the Get-On Skills Development Centre, the PHASA Foundation, and St Augustine Catholic College. He is also part of Cogent Advisory, a public affairs consultancy, and serves as a senior advisor to the Public Private Growth Initiative, which promotes economic growth partnerships.

• What distinguishes Daniel’s career is not merely the positions he has held, but the consistent thread running through his work: a belief that collaboration is stronger than division, and that sustainable progress is built by bringing people together around a shared vision for the future.