Geordin Hill-Lewis

Geordin Gwyn Hill-Lewis (born 31 December 1986) is a South African politician. He became the Federal Leader of the Democratic Alliance in April 2026 and has served as the Mayor of Cape Town since November 2021.

Hill-Lewis was born in Plettenberg Bay and went to Edgemead High School in Cape Town. He studied at the University of Cape Town, earning an Honours degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. He also got a Master's degree in Finance, focusing on Economic Policy, from the University of London.

Before becoming mayor, Hill-Lewis worked in the National Assembly of South Africa for over ten years, from August 2011 to November 2021. During that time, he held many important jobs in the Democratic Alliance's team, helping with public service, trade, industry, and finance.

In November 2023, Hill-Lewis became the deputy leader of the Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape. In February 2026, he decided to run to be the party's federal leader. He was elected on 12 April 2026 at the party's Federal Congress.

Early life and education

Geordin Hill-Lewis was born on 31 December 1986 in Plettenberg Bay. He grew up in Cape Town after his parents divorced, and was raised by his mother, who was a nurse. His father was an artist. He went to Edgemead High School and later earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He also got an honours degree in politics, philosophy and economics from the University of Cape Town. He completed a master's degree in economic policy at the University of London.

Early political career

Geordin Hill-Lewis started getting involved in politics when he was still in high school. While studying at the University of Cape Town, he created a group called the Democratic Alliance Students' Organisation. He also worked as an important helper in the office of Helen Zille, who used to be the leader of the Western Cape.

Parliamentary career (2011–2021)

In August 2011, Geordin Hill-Lewis joined the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, to replace someone who left their position. He was very young, only twenty-four years old, when he started, making him the youngest member of parliament since 1994. He was given an important job helping to oversee public services.

Later, he took on more responsibilities, working closely with leaders of his political party. After elections in 2014, another young member became the newest parliament member, but Hill-Lewis continued to work in important roles. He stayed in these roles until he moved to work for the city government of Cape Town in November 2021.

Mayor of Cape Town (2021–present)

On April 1, 2021, Geordin Hill-Lewis announced he wanted to become the next mayor of Cape Town. He was chosen by his party, the Democratic Alliance, after a contest with two other candidates. He started his campaign in August and focused on plans to improve electricity and housing in the city.

Hill-Lewis became mayor on November 18, 2021, after winning a vote in the city council. He was 34 years old, making him one of the youngest mayors in Cape Town's history. In his first days as mayor, he visited areas with sewage problems. He also formed a new team to help lead the city and focused on making Cape Town a better place for everyone.

Federal Leader of the Democratic Alliance: 2026–present

In February 2026, Geordin Hill-Lewis said he wanted to become the leader of the Democratic Alliance. The current leader, John Steenhuisen, decided not to run again, partly so Hill-Lewis could try for the job.

Hill-Lewis promised to keep his party working with the current government team. He also said he would stay as the Mayor of Cape Town and not move to the National Assembly. This way, he could speak freely about the President's choices if needed. He believes his work as mayor is important and helpful to people.

On April 12, 2026, Hill-Lewis was chosen as the new leader of the Democratic Alliance.

Personal life

Geordin Hill-Lewis is married to Carla Hill-Lewis, who used to work as a fashion designer. They have one child, born in August 2015. They live in Edgemead, a neighborhood in the northern part of Cape Town. Geordin is a big fan of rugby union.