Welcome to School of Succession
Founded in 2004, the School of Succession is a Christian-based leadership development conference designed to empower and equip the next generation of leaders with the tools, values, and vision needed to bring lasting impact to society. Rooted in a biblical worldview, the School of Succession is committed to raising up individuals who are not only spiritually grounded but also culturally relevant and socially responsible. Our mission is to cultivate leaders who can think critically, lead with integrity, and drive change across key areas of influence. Each year, we bring together young leaders from diverse backgrounds to engage with thought leaders, pastors, academics, and professionals through interactive sessions and in-depth teachings. Our focus areas include:
Biblical Literacy – Developing a strong foundation in Scripture, theology, and Christian worldview to navigate contemporary challenges with faith and clarity.
Economics – Exploring principles of stewardship, entrepreneurship, and financial integrity that align with Kingdom values.
Politics & Governance – Equipping future leaders to influence policy, justice, and governance through a biblical lens.
Environmental Advocacy – Promoting creation care and sustainable living as a reflection of our responsibility as stewards of God’s world.
Other Key Cultural Topics – Engaging current and emerging issues that affect the Church and society, from media to education, technology to global missions.
The School of Succession is more than a conference—it’s a movement of young visionaries committed to shaping the future with wisdom, courage, and purpose. Join us as we raise up a generation that is informed, inspired, and mobilized to lead.
Key Note Speakers
Shailen Singh (Founder, School of Succession). Shailen is a Leader, Public Speaker, Author & Community Activist. He is the Senior Pastor of Ecclesia Glocal Church, Founder of Jems Foundation & Founder of Veritas Life Solutions. Shailen holds a BA Honours (Cum Laude) and a Masters Degree from UKZN, where his thesis focused on the Amendment to the Sexual Offences Act of 2007. Shailen has completed various programmes in Leadership, Coaching & Mediation.
Pastor Rajan Govender is in the ministry and fully dedicated to the work of the ministry for the past 22 years. He graduated from Durban Christian Centre and holds certification from Hebron Bible College. He is married to Pam Govender and has three children. He is called to the body of Christ and empowers leaders. He is also an author.
Ps Nel Sewraj (Senior Elder, Groundbreakers Church)
Cllr Nel Sewraj has been actively involved in politics since 2010. In 2011 he became the ACDP’s first Councillor at Kwadukuza Municipality. He also served as the party’s Provincial Executive Chairman in KZN. In 2020, he joined ActionSA and hit the campaign trail together with his team. They won seven seats in the 2021 elections. Cllr Nel Sewraj is currently the party’s caucus leader in Council and a member of the Executive Committee of KwaDukuza Municipality. He also serves the party as the Regional Chairperson for the iLembe District and a member of the Provincial Executive Committee in KZN.
Cllr Nel Sewraj holds an Honours degree in Dogmatics and Ethics and postgraduate certificates in Executive Leadership Municipal Development and Management of Local Government. He also a Commissioner of Oaths and the founder of People Movement, a people-centred advocacy group that influences public policies and champions moral values.
Gary Nagoor’s journey was forever changed in 2004 through the School of Succession, where he encountered Christ and discovered his God-given purpose.
Once a young man without direction, his life was transformed by the power of God’s grace and intentional discipleship. Today, he serves as a pastor, a qualified accountant, and the Chief Financial Officer at Royal Tyres, one of South Africa’s fastest-growing independent commercial tyre importers and distributors. Passionate about equipping and empowering the next generation, his story reflects the lasting impact of spiritual mentorship and purpose-driven living. With a heart of gratitude, Gary is committed to investing in others as others once invested in him.
As the Chief Analytics Officer at FNB Commercial and Associate Professor of Behavioural Finance at Wits University, I use analytics and research to drive business growth and create positive societal impact. I’m passionate about bridging the gap between theory and practice, and dedicated to inspiring the next generation of leaders. With fellowships and memberships in prestigious institutions like the SA Institute of Financial Markets and the Royal Society of South Africa, I’m committed to making a meaningful difference through my work.
Thabo Mahlobo is the Executive Director of TNE Agri Group and serves as an Executive Strategy Advisor for Agriculture across Africa, focusing on special projects that drive transformation. He brings a wealth of expertise in strategic visioning, policy engagement, public-private partnerships, and innovation in the agricultural sector.
With a proven track record in shaping long-term agricultural strategies, Thabo advises governments, institutions, and development partners to align national master plans with sustainable, future-focused solutions. He champions cutting-edge innovations, research and development collaborations, and knowledge transfer initiatives to empower farmers and communities.
Thabo is also deeply committed to mobilizing investment, promoting value-chain integration, and representing Africa in global dialogues. As a continental thought leader and Kingdom Ambassador for transformation, he is passionate about raising Africa’s agricultural systems from survival to significance.
From the age of 16, Anthea Nagoor knew God had called her to serve the next generation, beginning her journey as a youth leader with a heart for healing and hope.
Today she serves as Director of Counselling at Focus on the Family Africa (a global organisation that helps families thrive)
She has a Master’s in Social Science and leads a diverse team that supports people both nationally and beyond.
A passionate mental health advocate, Anthea speaks boldly on radio about suicide, grief, GBV, depression, and the importance of strong families.
She pioneered the South African adaptation of Alive to Thrive training communities to recognise and respond to suicide risk and ensure no young life is lost to silence.
Sipho Zungu is a dedicated Councillor in both KwaDukuza Local Municipality and iLembe District Municipality.With a strong focus on ethical governance, service delivery, and community empowerment, he champions transparency and accountability.
Vanishree Pillay is a Specialist Counsellor who holds a Honors Degree in Psychology, is a trained facilitator and addictions counsellor with over 15 years of experience in counselling, and youth development. Her journey has taken her from the heart of non-profit work to her current role as the School Counsellor at New Forest High School, where she guides learners through academic choices, career paths, and personal challenges.
She holds multiple degrees and certifications in psychology and counselling from UNISA. Her work has touched hundreds of lives, and reflects her deep commitment to community transformation.
But beyond the titles and accolades, Vanishree is a passionate advocate for mental health, a tireless supporter of vulnerable children, addiction and a firm believer in the power of empathy and education. Her motto? “It’s not just a job—it’s a calling to touch one life at a time.
