Bio
Sipho "Paddy" Nhlapo is a South African accounts director, consultant, television presenter and AIDS activist best known for co-presenting (with Mercy Makhalemele) the first two seasons of the HIV magazine series Siyayinqoba Beat It!, from 1999-2000.
He was diagnosed in February 1992 and disclosed his HIV status in March 1999. Born in Daveyton in 1970, he moved to Kwa-Thema (Springs) when he was nine years old.
He joined the political struggle when he was 14 years old by joining the then unbanned COSAS - spending both his 15th and 16th birthdays in detention without trial.
Between 1998 and 2000, Paddy worked as the Provincial Coordinator of the National Association of People living with HIV and AIDS (NAPWA) in the North West Province.
He worked his way up within the Johncom's Ochre Media between 2000 and 2006, starting as the Account Executive, promoted to Account Manger and subsequently the head of Health Development and Communications with Ochre Communications Department.
Nhlapo worked for TBWA\HUNTS\LASCARIS Johannesburg as an Account Director. He has worked across a range of portfolios within Community Development, Human Rights, Social and Health Communications.
In his responsibilities he has demonstrated high-quality ability to conceptualise, develop and manage strategic initiatives especially in Health Communications.
Over the years he has contributed to a growing body of work that has contributed towards having a positive impact on behavioural change communications.