Mmabatho Mongae
but a call to contribute meaningfully. The latter serves as a new reference point – a proof that anything is possible with dedication and purpose. Mentors Mulalo Tshikalange: Mulalo’s mentorship has been transformative for both my personal and professional development. Her consistent engagement – asking thoughtful questions, dedicating time and encouraging reflection – has influenced how I view myself, navigate my career and, importantly, how I show up in my own life. Professor Rod Alence: Any PhD student will attest that a supervisor can make or break the PhD journey. In my case, I was fortunate to have an exceptional supervisor. Professor Alence’s patience, commitment to excellence and genuine interest in both my research and career development made a lasting impact. His example has influenced how I approach my own work and how I think about leadership: a good leader recognises potential in others and creates the conditions for it to grow.
“OUR DEEPEST FEAR IS THAT WE ARE POWERFUL BEYOND MEASURE. IT IS OUR
LIGHT, NOT OUR DARKNESS, THAT MOST FRIGHTENS US”
Kefilwe Vanessa Mokwebo
“SUCCESS ISN’T ALWAYS ABOUT GREATNESS. IT’S ABOUT CONSISTENCY. CONSISTENT HARD WORK LEADS TO SUCCESS. GREATNESS WILL COME.’ – DWAYNE JOHNSON
Profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmabathomongae/ As acting head of programme for governance insights and analytics at Good Governance Africa, Mmabatho Mongae, 31, leads a multidisciplinary team committed to evidence-based policy research that strengthens governance systems on the continent. Her work includes directing the Governance Performance Index, a tool that assesses the effectiveness of local governments, and overseeing the African Cities Project, which builds a data-driven understanding of urban governance across sub-Saharan Africa. Mmabatho’s research investigates the gap between formal institutions and everyday lived experiences. Her inquiry into South Africa’s political psyche and citizen-state relations reflects her belief that real transformation begins by understanding people’s relationship with power. “I focus on the dissonance between what was, what is, and what might be,” she explains. This ethos also inspired her podcast, In Conversation With… Candid PhD Journeys and Beyond, amplifying the voices of African scholars and practitioners. A PhD graduate, Mmabatho was awarded the Walter and Albertina Sisulu Prize during her master’s studies, a moment that cemented her sense of responsibility to collective advancement. Qualifications Research fellow – Centre for Africa–China Studies, University of Johannesburg Achievements A significant milestone includes being awarded the warded the Walter and Albertina Sisulu Prize during the master’s degree and the completion of the PhD. The former imparted a sense of responsibility, serving as a reminder that although endeavours may begin through individual effort, they should ultimately contribute to the collective good and advancement. The recognition was not only an honour,
Profile LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kefilwe-vanessa- mokwebo-550b12127/ Growing up in the rural towns of Ledig and Mogwase in the North West, Kefilwe Mokwebo, 31, never imagined she’d one day be presenting cutting-edge research on global stages alongside Nobel Laureates. A postdoctoral research scientist at the University of Cape Town and the University of the Western Cape, Kefilwe’s work focuses on developing innovative nanomaterials for electrochemical sensors that address health and environmental issues. Her research contributes to achieving the sustainable development goals of clean water, better healthcare and environmental sustainability. Kefilwe has completed her PhD in chemistry, co-authored 15 peer-reviewed journal articles, co-supervised
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