Melvyn Lubega (Head of School 2007) has recently assumed a new role as Head of the Digital Services Unit in the Presidency. In this new position, he leads the coordination and implementation of digital transformation efforts across government to make public services more accessible, efficient, and citizen-focused.
“In practice, this means building foundational infrastructure like digital identity systems that support government departments in offering inclusive and human-centred digital services. It’s about building a government that meets people where they are,” he explains.
For Melvyn, digital transformation is about simplifying the lives of South Africans. “People should not have to stand in long queues to access basic services. If we get this right, we can reduce the cost of doing business with the government, improve transparency and accountability, and ultimately restore trust in public institutions. However, this can't be achieved through technology alone. It also requires culture change, policy reform, and building a coalition of public servants who are committed to delivering better outcomes.”
Drawing on his experience as co-founder of the global company Go1, which operates in over 60 countries, Melvyn brings valuable lessons to this national project. “Scale is possible from the global south when you have a relentless focus on users and build strong, values-aligned teams. Resilience is crucial; things rarely go according to plan, but with clarity of purpose and the right people, progress is always possible. I’ve seen firsthand how digital systems, when done right, can unlock economic participation and change lives. That experience is now guiding how I approach building digital public infrastructure in South Africa.”
As a recipient of the Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship in 2008, Melvyn reflects on how that opportunity shaped his worldview. “It gave me a community and a deep sense of duty to extend the opportunities I’ve had to others. It also shaped my understanding of entrepreneurship as a vehicle for social and economic change and that continues to guide my work today.”
Melvyn credits his time at St John’s College as being a good foundation for his leadership journey. “It was a place that cultivated curiosity, instilled discipline, and taught me the value of servant leadership. Being Head of School in 2007 was a formative experience. It showed me the power of using one’s voice not for status, but for stewardship. And it taught me that leadership is about showing up consistently, even when it is uncomfortable.”
Now serving as Vice Chair on the Council of St John’s, Melvyn describes the opportunity as both humbling and full-circle. “It is a way of giving back to a community that helped shape me, while helping shape the future of the school. I am particularly passionate about ensuring that St John’s remains a place of excellence that is also inclusive, forward-looking, and grounded in purpose.”
To fellow Johanians hoping to make a meaningful difference in the world, Melvyn offers this advice: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Don’t wait for permission. The world doesn’t need more spectators. It needs builders, doers, and people who are willing to care deeply and act boldly. And never underestimate the power of integrity, especially in difficult times. That is where real leadership begins.”
Reflecting on his journey, Melvyn closes with gratitude, “I am deeply grateful to my teachers, mentors, peers, and the broader St John’s community. This journey is one I walk with many. I remain committed to using whatever platform I have to help build a better, more just South Africa.”