As a former Springbok prop and now Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, Eddie’s career spans two worlds, professional sport and public leadership, both demanding heart, grit, and teamwork.

In a compelling episode of the Training Portal Podcast, Eddie sits down with host Melissa Mostert to reflect on his upbringing in Mitchells Plain, the values that guided his path, and the vision he’s working toward as a public servant.

A Springbok’s start

Before stepping into the world of politics, Eddie was a celebrated rugby player. Representing South Africa on the international stage, he was part of the legendary Springbok squad of 2007 and wore the green and gold with pride. But when a career-ending injury forced him off the field, Eddie faced the difficult transition so many athletes know — the question of what comes next.

Leadership with purpose

Today, Eddie serves as the Deputy Mayor of Cape Town alongside Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. What drives his leadership? A deep commitment to care, community, and purpose.

“We all lead lives with purpose,” Eddie says. “And I believe we have a moment in time to affect real change.”
Drawing on the discipline and teamwork he learned in rugby, Eddie is helping to lead Cape Town through one of its most ambitious phases, with a R120 billion infrastructure plan, city-wide resilience initiatives, and a renewed focus on entrepreneurship and job creation.

Facing the triple threat

Eddie speaks candidly about the “triple threat” facing many South Africans: poverty, inequality, and unemployment.

“It’s what keeps me awake,” he shares. “How do we ensure that socially vulnerable communities not only have access to opportunities, but the capacity to benefit from them?”

It’s not just about policy, it’s about people. Eddie’s focus remains on those who are too often left behind, working to ensure that the city’s progress is inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful.

Scaling impact across the city

From energy and sanitation to mobility and environment, Eddie emphasises the need for every department in the city to work together, not in silos, but as a cohesive team.

“We all have a part to play,” he says. “And we recognise that we have this moment in time to deliver real results.”

Listen to the full episode

Tune in to hear Eddie talk about:
• His journey from sport to service
• Key lessons from rugby that shape his leadership
• The future of Cape Town's infrastructure and economy
• Why youth empowerment and access to education matter more than ever
• The role of faith, community, and purpose in leadership

🎧 Watch the full episode on YouTube (You can also tune in on Spotify on The Training Portal Podcast)
Eddie Andrews: From Springbok to Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town

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