Azukile Nzuzo is driving inclusion and innovation in South Africa’s public health sector as manager for assistive technology at the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). A Chevening Scholar with an MSc in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship from Kingston University, London, Azukile leads programmes that enable early identification of disabilities across five provinces. His work focuses on scaling dual sensory screening initiatives that integrate mobile health tools for hearing and vision testing — bringing vital diagnostics to communities that need them most. “I was inspired by the inequities I saw in health access,” he says. “I wanted to combine innovation, community action, and technology to make health care inclusive and locally relevant.” At CHAI, he forms strong partnerships with government, social enterprises, and local organisations, ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of his interventions. A passionate marathon runner, Azukile, is on a mission to run 40 marathons in 40 countries before turning 40, using each run to raise awareness and funds for disability inclusion. Whether in health innovation or on the racecourse, he is driven by persistence and purpose. “Use your difference as your advantage,” he says — a mantra that defines both his leadership and his lifelong mission to build a more inclusive future.
QUALIFICATIONS
- MSc in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship (Distinction), Kingston University, London (*Chevening Scholar)
- B.Tech in Biomedical Technology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- National Diploma in Biomedical Technology, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- Certificate in Project Management, University of Cape Town
ACHIEVEMENTS
- Recipient of the Chevening Scholarship for academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Completed global marathons, including London, Paris, Prague, and Sydney.
- Leading assistive technology and early identification programmes across five provinces in South Africa.
