A Postgraduate Diploma from The DaVinci Institute can be a transformative step for those seeking to lead and create lasting impact. In a changing world, institutions like DaVinci play a crucial role in shaping leaders who not only succeed professionally but also positively influence society. Known for its focus on innovation, systems thinking, and human-centred solutions, DaVinci equips students to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Its unique learning model encourages resilience, adaptability, and the ability to tackle complex societal challenges, skills that ripple beyond individual careers to strengthen communities and industries.
Quality of DaVinci’s Postgraduate Diploma
The DaVinci Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) is a crucial stepping stone for professionals seeking to improve their leadership, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities. Designed with working adults in mind, it blends strategic thinking with practical projects, enabling students to address challenges within their organisations while they study.
This applied learning approach ensures graduates are not only academically equipped but also industry-ready, capable of influencing policy, shaping business strategy, and driving societal change in an era defined by complexity and technological disruption.
From East Rand to Success
Growing up in the East Rand, our PGDip student, Courtney Melissa Mako, was the kind of student who made her teachers proud. Hard work and recognition for excellence marked her schooling years, but it was the influence of her father, a travelling engineer for Ericsson, MTN, and other leading companies, which shaped her ambition. Witnessing his early success, confidence, and determination gave Mako a living example of what was possible.
After matriculating, Mako entered the legal field as a Legal Officer, completing an NQF 5 Paralegal Certificate to complement her role.
“Returning to studies after an eight-year break was daunting, but with company-sponsored tuition and my inner drive, I quickly excelled,” she explains.
Turning Point of Mako’s Career
Her turning point came through an email from her manager about a learnership. While many institutions offered only certificates and diplomas, The DaVinci Institute stood out for its degree pathways. For Mako, this meant not just a qualification, but a future with more opportunities. She earned her Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Financial Service Management and, true to her collaborative nature, mentored a peer who joined later in the programme.
Graduation
Today, Mako is in the final stages of her PGDip in Risk Management, on track to graduate eight months earlier than expected.
“That is my proudest academic achievement so far,” she says, with October 2025 circled on her calendar.
Mako’s Experience at DaVinci
Her time at DaVinci has been marked by support, innovation, and a focus on practical application.
“It taught me to be innovative, resilient, and to think outside the box, and most importantly, how to connect my studies directly to my career,” she explains.
For Mako, education is both a personal stepping stone and a tool for impact. She aims to live a financially stable life while creating opportunities for others in her community and across South Africa.
Advice to DaVinci’s Students
Her advice to future DaVinci students is simple yet powerful:
“Plan your days well and be resilient. If you commit to the process and stay disciplined, you will surprise yourself with what you can achieve.”
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