Hedley Lewis is the visionary CEO of CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa and serves on the board of Childhood Cancer International and chairs Childhood Cancer International Africa, emphasizing collaboration and global advocacy in pediatric oncology. Driven by purpose and impact, Hedley is counted among the Most Admired Business Personalities to Watch in 2025, a tribute to his pioneering influence, cross-sector leadership, and steadfast dedication to improving outcomes for young people across South Africa and beyond.
A Calling Beyond Corporate
Hedley’s professional journey began in the field of finance, which he pursued during his tertiary education, earning a B.Com in Accounting from what is now known as the University of Johannesburg. The inspiring leader launched his career in a finance department and gradually climbed the corporate ladder, eventually working in the Managing Director’s office of a leading loyalty programmes division. It was in this role that Hedley encountered outstanding leadership, individuals who were deeply focused, people-oriented, and dedicated to empowering their teams. Their example of leading with integrity and mentoring others left a lasting impact on him and helped shape his own approach to leadership.
Although he had not initially envisioned a career in the non-profit sector, the inspiring leader began to feel a growing urge to align his work more closely with his personal values. This calling prompted a significant shift from the corporate sphere to the NGO space,a decision that transformed both his outlook and his sense of purpose. Since making that transition, Hedley has had the opportunity to work with three different non-profit organizations, each enriching his understanding of resilience, human connection, and the power of compassion in leadership. Today, he serves as the CEO of CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, an organization devoted to supporting children, teenagers and their families affected by cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder.
What attracted Hedley to CHOC was not only the critical mission of the organization but also the chance to leverage his leadership and strategic expertise to offer meaningful support and hope to families navigating unimaginable challenges. Leading CHOC has proven to be both a personal and professional calling,one that continues to inspire and challenge him every day.
Building a Stronger Future for Children and Teenagerswith Cancer
The CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa plays an essential role within a wide and compassionate network of support. This network includes hospital administrators, healthcare professionals, the National and local Departments of Health, volunteers, donors, and partner NGOs. Together, they form a united “village” working to support children and families affected by childhood cancer.
CHOC provides additional supportive care that complements the efforts of medical teams and is shaped by the experiences and insights of the children, teenagers and families it serves. The organization works closely with the South African Association for Paediatric Haematology Oncology (SAAPHO) and partners with various networks, alliances, and like-minded non-profits to strengthen the overall care system for young cancer patients.
Collaboration is more than a value at CHOC,it is central to their strategy. Across their board, management, and teams, working together is key to fulfilling their mission. CHOC also partners with technical and medical experts to develop new models of care, especially for underserved communities. Being part of global groups like Childhood Cancer International (CCI), the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP), and the St. Jude Global Alliance helps CHOC adopt global best practices and apply them locally.
Although many organizations in South Africa support children with cancer, the challenges faced by these children, teens, and their families go beyond medical needs. They often deal with financial hardship, emotional struggles, interrupted education, and social isolation. CHOC recognizes the importance of collaboration and avoids duplicating services, believing that a shared effort leads to a more complete and effective care system.
CHOC’s mission is to offer a wide range of free services: safe accommodation, transport assistance , emotional and psycho-social support, practical aid, and education about the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer. A recent innovation, in partnership with iSchool Africa, introduces digital learning to children and teenagers in treatment, ensuring they stay connected to education even while in the hospital.
Purpose Meets Leadership
As the CEO, Hedley is dedicated to upholding the organization’s mission of supporting children and teenagers with cancer and life threatening blood disorders and their families through compassionate care. He focuses on building strong partnerships with stakeholders and leads the strategic and operational direction of CHOC. His role involves engaging with various supporters and health professionals to strengthen collaboration. One of the most meaningful parts of his work is visiting CHOC houses, where direct interaction with families reinforces his commitment to lead with empathy and purpose.
Overcoming Challenges
One of CHOC’s biggest challenges is raising awareness about childhood cancer to support early diagnosis. Under CEO Hedley Lewis’s leadership, the organization continues to focus on awareness training and campaigns, social media outreach, and partnerships to highlight its impact. For Hedley, this work is deeply personal. From the start, he saw that early detection can save lives, and this belief continues to guide CHOC’s mission and efforts today.
A Team United by Purpose
Hedley considers himself fortunate to lead a strong and capable management team, supported by dedicated and passionate staff members located across the country. The CHOC team is united by a shared purpose,one that deeply resonates with each individual: the understanding that their work directly impacts the lives of vulnerable children and families. This mission serves as a powerful source of motivation.
The team continues to be inspired by CHOC’s founders, Julian and Sadie Cutland, whose vision was rooted in sharing personal experiences and offering one-on-one support to fellow parents. CHOC fosters a culture of ownership and accountability, where team members are trusted to lead initiatives, solve problems, and make decisions within their scope. This culture of trust encourages both innovation and personal growth.
People-First Leadership Philosophy
Hedley’s leadership journey began at Vodacom, where he was mentored by empathetic, visionary leaders who showed him the power of transformative leadership. Inspired by the Zulu greeting Sawubona,“I see you”,he learned the importance of making people feel valued and heard. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, deep listening, and a shared sense of purpose. Now as CEO of CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, Hedley leads with empathy and service, focusing on human impact over metrics. He believes true leadership is about inspiring others, fostering connection, and driving meaningful change through collective effort.
Transforming Care, Touching Lives
CHOC remains committed to being a beacon of hope for countless children, teenagers, and their families as they navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The organization continues to work in close collaboration with the medical community, national and local Departments of Health, and various nonprofit partners to deliver essential support.
CHOC’s priorities include strengthening existing programmes while exploring innovative ways to better serve patients and their families. A key area of focus is to continue expanding post-treatment care to ensure that support extends well beyond the initial phase of treatment. The organization also places strong emphasis on sustainability, aiming to maximize its reach and effectiveness. In addition, CHOC is increasing its efforts in early detection and diagnosis to help ensure that more children receive timely care when it matters most.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Hedley encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on collaboration, build strong stakeholder relationships, and understand community needs. He highlights the value of using technology to increase impact and stresses the importance of passion, commitment, and adaptability. According to him, lasting success comes from a clear vision and working together toward meaningful change.