From a modest start as a secretary to becoming a chief director in the Presidency and later an executive at Adcock Ingram Healthcare, Doreen Kosi’s story is one of perseverance, discipline, and purposeful growth.

Born and raised in Annshaw location in Middledrift, Eastern Cape, Kosi is the eldest of three children. Her early years were shaped by resilience and sacrifice. While her single mother, Mavis (Nomthunzi) Tyali, searched for work in Port Elizabeth, young Doreen was raised by her aunt, Elbrona (Somnci) Tyali—a woman who would profoundly influence her life.

Kosi credits her aunt for instilling in her a deep respect for education as a key to life, the value of independence, and the importance of respecting one’s body as a “temple.” These early lessons would become the foundation of her remarkable career.

Stepping Stones to Success

After completing her studies, Kosi secured her first role as a secretary to a managing director at a factory in Dimbaza. Her career progressed steadily when she joined the University of Fort Hare as a library assistant. Within a year, her dedication and competence earned her a promotion to secretary to the dean of the Faculty of Science.

In 1992, her excellence was formally recognised when she won the Eastern Cape Secretary of the Year Award. Watching graduation ceremonies at Fort Hare, Kosi quietly made a promise to herself—one day, she would be on that stage too.

A Leap of Faith to Gauteng

In search of greater opportunities, Kosi relocated to Gauteng, a move that required immense courage. By 1996, she found herself in a new province, a new city, a new job, and entirely on her own, without family support. Yet, she persevered, driven by her unwavering dream.

She began working as assistant director to the national director-general, Professor Chabani Manganyi, whose mentorship brought out the best in her. Under his guidance, Kosi flourished, later becoming private secretary to the Minister of Education, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, who taught her humility and further accelerated her career growth.

Four Deputy Presidents, One Legacy

In 1999, Kosi was appointed private secretary to then Deputy President Jacob Zuma, a role through which she learned the value of ubuntu. This appointment marked the beginning of her 14-year journey in the Presidency, where she proudly served four deputy presidents with professionalism, dedication, and integrity.

Her time in the Presidency sharpened her interpersonal, leadership, and management skills, preparing her for executive-level responsibilities.

Investing in Personal Growth

Kosi understood early on that staying relevant required continuous learning. She pursued qualifications in public relations, community relations, and labour relations, and later earned a Master of Management in Public and Development Management from the University of the Witwatersrand Graduate School of Governance in 2009.

That same year, she participated in the prestigious General Electric CEOs Programme at Crouton University in the United States. She is currently further enhancing her leadership skills through a Women in Leadership programme at Wits Business School.

Choosing Family and Balance

A pivotal moment came when Kosi realised that success should not come at the expense of family. Reflecting on the sacrifices her mother made for her, she chose to step away from public service to prioritise her children, while still pursuing excellence in her career.

This decision led her to an executive role at Adcock Ingram Healthcare, where she continues to make an impact in the corporate sector.

Final Thoughts

Doreen Kosi’s journey is a powerful reminder that greatness is built through intentional choices, resilience, and continuous self-development. Her life philosophy sums it up best:

“Make choices, commit to them; live with the consequences.”

Her story stands as an inspiration to aspiring professionals—especially women—proving that no beginning is too small, and no dream is too big.