As it enters its second decade, WeThinkCode_ has announced that Nyari Samushonga, CEO since 2019, will transition to executive chairperson of the board effective 1 January 2026.
Ashmita Singh will succeed her as CEO.
Since 2019, Samushonga has led WeThinkCode_ through a period of intentional growth – expanding its footprint, broadening access, and strengthening the systems and partnerships that underpin its impact. Under her leadership, the academy now trains 600 learners annually across seven campuses, including five operated in partnership with TVET Colleges.
WeThinkCode_’s funding base has grown fourfold, supported by a balanced mix of corporate, philanthropic, and public sector partners. The academy now operates on an in-house curriculum with specialised technology tracks and is run by a mission-aligned team that is now majority alumni and majority women – preserving institutional knowledge and ensuring leadership continuity.
“It’s been a privilege to lead WeThinkCode_,” says Samushonga. “Our bold ideas have grown into a national platform that has transformed the stories of many young people. This chapter has shown what is possible, and I’m excited for the next one under Ashmita’s leadership.”
Singh trained in finance and audit at Mazars before moving into financial management at South African Breweries and AB InBev, building strong foundations in governance and operational leadership.
She went on to found Party4Change, Refresh Afrika, and SwapVend, technology-enabled ventures expanding economic participation in underserved communities. Most recently, she served as MD at AMANDLA and Rhiza Ventures, scaling national programmes in youth skills and enterprise development, and as Strategic Advisor to Women for Change, helped secure the declaration of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide as a National Disaster in South Africa.”
Justinus Adriaanse, co-founder and board member of WeThinkCode_, says: “Nyari’s leadership has strengthened the institution and expanded its impact.
“As we enter this next chapter, the board was intentional about appointing a leader who can build on that foundation while bringing complementary experience from both corporate and social enterprise contexts. Ashmita’s blend of operational rigour, ecosystem insight, and mission-driven leadership makes her well-suited to extend the trajectory already set.”