Blind KZN advocate appointed to top government post
The appointment places Sukhraj-Ely at the helm of the department tasked with advancing the rights of vulnerable groups.
Durban-born advocate and disability rights champion Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely has been appointed acting director-general of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.
The appointment, announced by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga on Thursday, places the blind advocate of the High Court at the helm of the department responsible for advancing the rights of women, young people and persons with disabilities.
Sukhraj-Ely was born with just 10% vision in one eye and lost her sight completely as a child. She attended Arthur Blaxall School for the Blind in Pietermaritzburg before pursuing a distinguished academic and legal career.
ALSO READ | Calls for support in the ‘She Matters’ sanitary pad donation drive
Sukhraj-Ely holds a PhD in Public Policy and a master’s degree in Political Science, both awarded cum laude. She has built an extensive career in constitutional law, disability rights, gender-based violence and public administration.
She currently serves as a state representative on the Commission for Employment Equity, where she has been advocating for a 7% employment target for persons with disabilities by 2030.
She has also represented South Africa on international platforms, including the United Nations, the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), and the International Disability Alliance.
Her previous work includes contributing to the implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, the development of the Femicide Strategy, and drafting the Disability Access to Justice Policy.
ALSO READ | Know your Sassa grant: Disability Grant
Chikunga said the appointment reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive leadership and equal representation, expressing confidence in Sukhraj-Ely’s ability to strengthen the department’s performance and advance socio-economic development.
“She brings integrity, legal expertise and a deep understanding of constitutional mandates, particularly in advancing the rights of women, youth and persons with disabilities,” said Chikunga.
The department said the appointment underscores its focus on promoting equality, dignity and human rights.
