Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy

Abongile Mashele is the Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy at Google South Africa, where he leads engagement with government, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to support digital transformation and responsible technology development. With over two decades of experience in public policy, governance, and regulatory affairs, he has played a significant role in shaping policy within South Africa’s ICT and media sectors. Prior to joining Google in 2021, Mashele served as Chief Operations Officer at the Film and Publication Board, where he oversaw organisational operations including content regulation, compliance, research, and communications. His earlier career includes roles at the National Youth Commission and the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), focusing on policy development, research, and parliamentary liaison. Mashele holds degrees in Governance and Political Studies from the University of Cape Town and Public and Development Management from the University of the Witwatersrand.