Guerrilla Strategies for Public Service Career in South Africa

Ready to break into public service—or take your career to the next level? This book is your secret weapon. Guerrilla Strategies for Public Service Career in South Africa is an essential guide for those who dream of making an impact while building a rewarding career. It’s packed with powerful strategies that cut two ways: first, for those on the hunt to break into the field, and second, for current public servants looking to thrive—not just by climbing the ladder, but by finding the goldmine of meaning that public service can offer. Because, let’s face it, promotions are great—but not at the cost of your soul.

Authored by two standout South Africans, Guerrilla Strategies brings together the best of street-smart career tactics and heart-centered advice. Chris Kanyane, a veteran public servant with over 20 years under his belt, is a senior strategic specialist with an MBA and a deep, insider’s knowledge of the government landscape. And Nomsa Bokaba, a seasoned counseling psychologist and student mentor at the Tshwane University of Technology, brings invaluable insights into the human side of success.

This book isn't just a guide—it’s your go-to manual for a fulfilling, sustainable career in public service, designed to give you the edge without losing yourself. Insightful, practical, and downright inspiring, this is a must-read for anyone serious about making a difference in the world and loving what they do while they’re at it. Grab your copy, and get ready to launch your public service career with passion and purpose!

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

CHRIS KANYANE

Chris Kanyane is a highly respected public service strategist with over 20 years of experience in South Africa’s Department of Public Service and Administration. Known for his deep commitment to public service, his extensive knowledge and practical advice make him an invaluable guide to anyone navigating this challenging field.

NOMSA BOKABA

Career Growth

The public service terrain in South Africa is rich and varied, offering a multitude of paths to make a difference. Whether you’re drawn to the grassroots engagement of local government, the regional focus of provincial roles, the broad scope of national policy-making, or the business-oriented world of parastatals, each level of public service provides opportunities for growth and impact.

As you consider your options, think about where you feel you could make the most meaningful contribution. The best fit will be the one that aligns with your skills, values, and the type of impact you want to have. Public service is about more than just a job—it’s about building a better South Africa, one role at a time.

Nomsa Bokaba is a counseling psychologist based at Tshwane University of Technology, where she mentors and coaches university students, helping them develop resilience and purpose in their professional lives. She also owns a counseling practice in Sunnyside, South Africa, a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood known as a melting pot of African cultures, with communities from Somalia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo, and beyond. Her background brings an essential human element to the book, enriching it with insights into the importance of cultural sensitivity, emotional resilience, and purpose-driven work.

Navigating the Public Service Terrain – Local, Provincial, National, and Parastatal Sectors

The public service landscape in South Africa is as diverse as it is vast. From local municipalities to national departments, each sector plays a unique role in shaping the nation’s future. While public service offers a wide range of roles, each level of government and every type of institution has its own rhythm, responsibilities, and challenges. Understanding the terrain not only helps you choose the right path but also allows you to make a deeper impact once you’re there.

We have created a dynamic community—a refuge where public servants can reconnect, not only with each other but with the very essence of why they chose to serve.

Experience

Strategic Career Guidance

Public Service

January 2023

Navigating the complexities of public service with resilience and resourcefulness.

Tactical Career Development

Public Sector

February 2024

Building alliances and overcoming workplace challenges in the public sector.

woman in black academic dress standing on gray concrete floor during daytime
woman in black academic dress standing on gray concrete floor during daytime

Empowering Future Public Servants

At Leading Public Service, we provide aspiring public servants with insights and strategies from experienced professionals to navigate the complexities of South Africa's public sector effectively.

people jumping on shore front of golden hour
people jumping on shore front of golden hour
Learn from Experts
Navigate Workplace Politics

Our platform equips you with the knowledge and resilience needed to thrive amidst challenges, fostering resourcefulness and strategic alliances for a successful public service career.

Connect with Public Service

The public service terrain in South Africa is rich and varied, offering a multitude of paths to make a difference. Whether you’re drawn to the grassroots engagement of local government, the regional focus of provincial roles, the broad scope of national policy-making, or the business-oriented world of parastatals, each level of public service provides opportunities for growth and impact.

As you consider your options, think about where you feel you could make the most meaningful contribution. The best fit will be the one that aligns with your skills, values, and the type of impact you want to have. Public service is about more than just a job—it’s about building a better South Africa, one role at a time.

Contact

Chris Kanyane (MBA) Certified Management Consultant

Nomsa Bokaba, MA (Psychology)

Support

ChrisKanyane63@gmail.com