What makes an alumni event transformative rather than transactional? This was the central question explored at the recent MBA Alumni Forum, hosted by the South African Business Schools Association (SABSA). The gathering brought together alumni representatives from across the country to reflect on the evolving role of alumni relations in shaping the future of business and education. Our Registry and Alumni Coordinator, Mduduzi Biyela, was in attendance representing The DaVinci Institute.
The discussions, both timely and inspiring, highlight how alumni engagement can move beyond routine networking to become a powerful driver of lifelong learning, institutional impact, and societal change.
The Purpose of Alumni Engagement
At the core of the SABSA Alumni Forum was a reminder that alumni engagement must be aligned with an institution’s purpose. Alumni networks extend beyond events and databases, focusing on fostering growth, transformation, and lifelong connections between graduates and their alma mater.
One of the most striking metaphors compared the student journey to that of an egg. If it is broken from the outside, life ends. But if growth happens from within, new life emerges. Similarly, institutions must nurture students during their studies so that transformation begins from within. This requires robust student support and exceptional service, since the quality of the academic experience determines whether graduates will later choose to reconnect, reinvest, and contribute as alumni.
Leading Through Uncertainty
Another critical theme was the role of institutions in preparing graduates to lead in uncertain times. The world of work is unpredictable, and resilience, adaptability, and confidence are essential skills.
This means academic programmes must do more than impart knowledge; they must create environments that support clarity during studies while also equipping graduates to navigate ambiguity beyond the classroom. Strong support structures during the student journey lay the foundation for professional agility after graduation.
Importance of Alumni Stories
The forum has highlighted the importance of alumni stories as a bridge between past and present. Alumni who share their journeys through events, mentorship, or guest lectures inspire current students while strengthening the alumni community itself.
Crucially, engagement should not be limited to academia. When institutions partner with alumni in community development and social impact projects, they position themselves as collaborators in creating positive change. This not only deepens alumni loyalty but also extends the institution’s influence into society.
The Future with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
A forward-looking theme that resonated strongly was the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education. While many institutions teach about AI, the real opportunity lies in embedding AI-driven learning across all qualifications and curricula.
Graduates should leave with AI literacy, an understanding of its possibilities, risks, and impact on work and society. More importantly, alumni can become ambassadors of this shift, taking AI-enabled practices into their industries and communities. By positioning AI as a tool for empowerment rather than displacement, institutions prepare both students and alumni to shape the future with confidence.
In Closing Remarks
The SABSA Alumni Forum had underscored that alumni relations are not a side function; they are the natural extension of the student journey. By ensuring positive student experiences, cultivating resilience, amplifying alumni stories, embracing community engagement, and preparing graduates for an AI-driven future, institutions can build networks that are loyal, dynamic, and transformative.
For The DaVinci Institute and for all institutions, the challenge and opportunity now lie in co-creating spaces where alumni are not just remembered but actively empowered to reinvest their skills, resources, and passion into shaping the next generation of leaders.
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