David Magae – a seasoned communicator whose career spans the broadcasting, local government and water utility sectors, is a proud alumnus of the North-West University (NWU). He is a leading voice in communication and public engagement, and an inspiring mentor to future professionals in the field.
Despite his many responsibilities as senior manager for communication and media relations at Magalies Water, David makes time for mentorship. “The mentors who took the time to shape and guide me made such an impact. That experience inspired me to pay it forward.”
David's dream when he enrolled at the NWU was to one day become a household name in the broadcasting sector. “I remember entering the Great Hall on the Mahikeng Campus to register for my communication degree with the full intention of making a name for myself in media,” he reflects. “What stood out for me was the unwavering support from my lecturers. They always had time to listen to my goals and help guide me towards them.”
He earned both his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in communication in 2009 and 2011, respectively. These formative years not only equipped him with theoretical and practical knowledge, but also instilled a lifelong commitment to using communication as a tool for empowerment.
Moving up the ranks
David’s career began in community radio at Mahikeng FM, where he rose through the ranks to become radio station manager. He later joined the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) at Motsweding FM, taking on several key roles, including radio producer, current affairs senior producer and anchor.
He then joined local government, serving as head of communication at Rustenburg Local Municipality, a role that solidified his experience in public sector communications. Today, at the Magalies Water Board, which supplies water across Gauteng, Limpopo and North West, his work is both strategic and people centred.
He leads engagement efforts with local, regional and national media, responding to inquiries and conducting public education campaigns on the Water Board’s mandate. His mission as the utility’s spokesperson is building trust with communities and demonstrate transparency around how Magalies Water contributes to universal access to potable water across the three provinces it serves.
David also provides strategic communication advice to the executive and board, ensuring that public perception is balanced and objective. One of his critical roles is to keep bulk customers such as mines and municipalities well-informed of any operational developments, especially when it comes to water supply or quality concerns.
Championing mentorship and social impact
Since 2023, David’s mentorship efforts have resulted in eight young people securing employment opportunities in the communication space. Although his mentorship duties present challenges such as time constraints and limited resources, the reward outweighs the cost.
“We have a responsibility to show future graduates that despite different backgrounds and challenges, determination is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be,” he says.
For students and aspiring professionals, David offers this advice: “Research and apply. The evidence is there that the NWU produces some of the best talent across various industries. Believe in your dreams and make use of every opportunity that comes your way.”
NWU alumnus David Magae is an inspiring mentor to future professionals in the field.
