Category: DaVinci Alumni

Earning a qualification while navigating the complexities of work, life, and personal aspirations is no small achievement. For Nazlee Van De Rhede, a recent Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management graduate at The DaVinci Institute, this journey became a profound chapter of self-development, resilience, and leadership growth. Her story reflects not only academic accomplishment but also the inner transformation that comes with perseverance and purpose.

A Passion for Business and a Drive to Lead

Van De Rhede’s inspiration to pursue her BCom in Business Management stemmed from a longstanding curiosity about how organisations operate, grow, and create value, especially within the dynamic world of financial services.

“I’ve always had a strong interest in understanding how businesses build efficiency and deliver value. I wanted a qualification that gave me both strategic insight and practical skills I could apply in real workplaces like Capitec,” she shared.

Her studies shaped her on multiple levels. Personally, she grew in discipline, resilience, and confidence. Professionally, the programme deepened her understanding of financial principles, leadership, decision-making, and operational excellence.

“Overall, the degree helped me become more capable, structured, and purpose-driven in how I approach work and leadership,” Van De Rhede added.

Exploring Internal Mobility at Capitec

Van De Rhede’s Work-Based Challenge, “Scaling internal mobility challenges to enhance workforce agility at Capitec Bank,” was inspired by her keen interest in people development and organisational agility.

Having observed the need for structured career pathways in high-performance environments, she wanted to understand why some employees struggle to transition into new roles and how organisations can support growth more effectively.

“I’ve seen how important internal opportunities are for both employees and the business. When mobility is well supported, it strengthens career development and builds a future-ready workforce,” Van De Rhede explained.

Her research uncovered key insights:

• Employees often have the capability to move into new roles but face barriers such as low visibility of opportunities and inconsistent coaching.
  
• Supportive leadership and clear development pathways significantly enhance internal movement.
  
• Organisations benefit from transparent communication, structured upskilling, and tools that give employees access to internal roles.
  

“These findings show that mobility is not just about creating opportunities, but removing blockers and supporting people through transitions,” she said.

Balancing Pressure With Purpose

Like many working students, Van De Rhede faced the demanding task of balancing academic deadlines with professional responsibilities and personal life. Research required deep thinking, time management, and emotional endurance.

“There were moments where I questioned whether my findings were strong enough or if my approach was correct. Staying committed meant sacrificing weekends, seeking guidance from a life coach, and breaking my work into manageable tasks,” she recalls.

Her resilience, strong values, and commitment to growth carried her through.

Lessons That Shaped Her Future

Reflecting on her journey, several lessons stand out for Van De Rhede:

• Discipline and consistency remain essential to managing pressure.
  
• Critical thinking transformed how she approaches challenges and decisions.
  
• Perseverance through difficult moments-built confidence and mental strength.
  
• Business knowledge broadened her understanding of people, processes, and organisational development.
  

“These experiences shaped not just my academic success, but the professional I am becoming, disciplined, analytical, values-driven, and hungry to learn,” Van De Rhede said.

Support That Made the Journey Possible

Van De Rhede attributes her success to a strong support system: her family, who encouraged her through overwhelming periods, and DaVinci lecturers who guided her with constructive feedback. This combination of emotional and academic support kept her motivated and grounded.

A Future Built on Purpose and Impact

As she celebrates her achievement, Van De Rhede is excited about stepping into roles where she can meaningfully apply her knowledge. Her passion lies in leadership, business operations, and people development, spaces where she can grow, guide others, and contribute strategically.

“I’m entering the next chapter with purpose and confidence. I want to build a career that aligns with my values, develop people, and take on greater responsibility,” Van De Rhede said.

Advice to Students on Their Own Journey

Her message to other students is one of encouragement and truth:

“Growth happens in the moments that feel the toughest. You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to stay consistent. Break the work into smaller goals, lean on your support system, and believe in your potential. Challenges prepare you for future opportunities. Keep going, you are capable of far more than you think.”

A Journey Worth Celebrating

Nazlee Van De Rhede joins the growing community of DaVinci alumni who continue to rise in leadership, resilience, and purpose. Her journey embodies the spirit of determination and the transformative power of education. Through her commitment, insight, and unwavering values, she stands as an inspiring example of what it means to learn, grow, and lead.

On 30 October, Bridget Nembudani graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Leadership from The DaVinci Institute, marking a significant milestone in her journey as a professional committed to organisational development, leadership, and aviation safety.

Meet Bridget Nembudani: A Leader in the Making

Nembudani’s interest in leadership and organisational growth inspired her to pursue a degree that would strengthen her analytical skills and leadership capabilities. Her goal was clear: to become a meaningful contributor in fields such as aviation, where safety, resilience, and governance are critical.

“My decision to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Leadership stemmed from my fascination with organisational development and leadership roles that shape high-performance environments. I sought a course that would refine my analytical aptitude and build my capacity for purposeful leadership,” she shared.

A Work-Based Challenge with National Impact

Nembudani’s Work-Based Challenge, “A quantitative analysis of cybersecurity measures to strengthen South Africa’s aviation resilience,” explored a critical intersection of leadership, risk management, and national security. Motivated by the increasing reliance of the aviation sector on digital technologies and the corresponding rise in cyber threats such as ransomware and phishing attacks, she sought to develop solutions that could strengthen cybersecurity in South Africa’s aviation industry.

Her research uncovered key findings: ransomware, phishing attacks, and outdated systems pose the greatest threats, while partial adoption of cybersecurity policies remains a concern. Organisations implementing frameworks such as ISO/IEC 27001 and NIST, with strong leadership and regular training, showed significantly improved cyber resilience. Bridget’s study also recommended a national compliance audit, regularised cybersecurity training, and the creation of a cross-border SADC cybersecurity index for aviation. These insights provide regulators, aviation operators, and policymakers with actionable strategies to improve governance, safety, and resilience.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience

Nembudani’s journey was not without challenges. Sensitive information on cybersecurity incidents required careful handling to ensure ethical compliance and trust, while mastering advanced statistical methods such as chi-square, ANOVA, and regression analysis demanded persistence and focus. Time management was a constant challenge, overcome through structured schedules, prioritisation, and seeking support when needed.

“These challenges taught me resilience, discipline, and adaptability, qualities essential for effective leadership,” she reflected.

Lessons Learned and Support Systems

Nembudani highlighted several lessons from her academic journey: the importance of data-driven decision-making, the value of ethical responsibility, and the confidence gained from investigating real-world problems. Support from family, friends, lecturers, peers, and industry professionals was instrumental in keeping her motivated and ensuring the credibility and depth of her research.

Stepping Into The Next Chapter

As Nembudani steps into the next chapter, she is excited to apply her skills to aviation safety, cybersecurity governance, and strategic leadership. Her ambitions include contributing to organisational resilience, shaping policy frameworks, and leading initiatives that drive positive change. She also plans to pursue postgraduate studies and grow into a reflective, ethical, and transformative leader in Africa’s aviation sector.

Advice to Fellow Students

For those navigating challenges or self-doubt, Nembudani offers empowering advice: “Begin, even if it is small. Ask for help; no one succeeds alone. Be organised and consistent, consistency is more powerful than intensity. Use challenges as opportunities for learning, and believe in your capability. Your persistence will carry you further than your perfection,” she shared.

With her degree in hand, Bridget Nembudani joins the growing community of DaVinci alumni demonstrating leadership, resilience, and purpose, setting an inspiring example for future students.

Why is holistic and sustainable leadership development such an essential building block in today’s organisations? For Dr Sharon King Gabrielides, this question became the foundation of a journey that continues to shape leaders, teams and organisational culture across South Africa and beyond.

When she began her doctoral studies at The DaVinci Institute, her goal was clear. She wanted to create value for her business, her clients and society at large. What drew her to DaVinci was its emphasis on applied learning, a philosophy that links academic insight with meaningful, practical impact.

“The reason I chose DaVinci was because of the applied nature of the learning. I wanted to be able to say, ‘This is the benefit to me, my business and my clients.’ Otherwise, I would not have invested the time and energy. It was never about the title; it was about creating something that truly adds value,” she explains.

Her research demanded depth and rigour. By the end of her studies, she had engaged two data analysts to process and triangulate extensive datasets, a commitment that added significant robustness to her findings. “It was demanding, but it was worth it,” she recalls.

From Learning to Practice

DaVinci’s doctoral programmes are built on the expectation that research should solve real organisational challenges. For Dr King Gabrielides, this principle has defined her professional path.

Soon after completing her studies, she was approached by a leading South African Bank to assist with the principles of holistic and sustainable development to support a company-wide culture transformation initiative. Her doctoral research was the perfect foundation.

“They knew my doctorate focused on holistic and sustainable development. I’d shared my framework, which was published in the International Journal of Management and Business by Rutgers University, deemed the gold standard in leadership, and they came back saying, ‘Can you workshop this with us?’”

The resulting engagement drew heavily on her DaVinci research and the holistic and sustainable development model she created. Seeing her work shift mindsets and practices in a large organisation affirmed exactly what Dr King Gabrielides had set out to achieve.

“It was so fulfilling to see how the research added such value and translated into real change. That is what I did my doctorate for. It is something I use every single day,” she says.

Living the DaVinci Philosophy

Dr King Gabrielides’ experience reflects DaVinci’s core educational philosophy: research should not remain on paper. It should transform systems, organisations and communities.

At DaVinci, the doctoral journey is designed to be personal, purposeful and practical, producing scholar-practitioners who apply knowledge meaningfully in their own contexts. Sharon believes a doctorate should be pursued not for prestige, but for its potential to drive systemic, sustainable change.

“It is disheartening when people see a doctorate as just another credential. I was attracted to DaVinci because the expectation is to resolve challenges systemically and holistically, to make a meaningful difference,” she reflects.

Co-Creating Sustainable Change

Today, Dr King Gabrielides continues to work passionately in the fields of leadership development, culture transformation and holistic growth strategy.

“I am excited because I love what I do. The doctorate gave me the tools to show the return on investment that our work at Key Steps provides for our clients and how we partner to tangibly make a difference. And that is what I plan to keep doing,” she adds.

Her journey stands as a powerful reminder of how DaVinci alumni transform research into living practice, creating sustainable value for individuals, organisations and society.

The DaVinci Institute proudly celebrates the academic achievement and leadership journey of Godfrey Mahlase, who recently announced on LinkedIn that he completed his Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership. His milestone reflects not only academic excellence but also a deep commitment to personal development, strategic thinking, and the continuous pursuit of meaningful leadership.

A Journey Marked by Gratitude and Collaboration

In his LinkedIn post, Mahlase expressed heartfelt appreciation for the individuals and institutions that supported his journey. He acknowledged Dr Mark Fuller for his unwavering guidance on his research paper titled “Exploring the Effect of Financial Acumen in Decision-Making in Leadership,” and extended gratitude to Future Ngwenya for their support throughout the research process.

His academic success was further enabled by generous funding from DSVET Career Wise, along with strong support from DSV Management, including Adrienne Youell, Jannes Janse van Rensburg, and Magdalena Neave, whose involvement enriched the practical insights within his dissertation.

Academic Excellence Recognised

Mahlase’s work received strong academic endorsement from DaVinci Institute faculty members, Dr S February, Dr N Masindi, and Prof Paul Singh. During his oral presentation, they challenged his dissertation with rigorous academic scrutiny, insightful questioning, and critical engagement with his thematic framework, hypotheses, and conceptual models. Their feedback strengthened the validity and reliability of his research.

The outcome speaks volumes, as his dissertation has been recognised as the top research project in Leadership Development, highlighting both the quality of his work and the transformative nature of his academic journey.

Building Leadership Through Critical Thinking and Multidisciplinary Insight

Reflecting on his experience, Mahlase noted that the PGBL programme enabled him to integrate leadership theories with real-world application. Through multidisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and hypothesis-driven inquiry, he developed strong capabilities to analyse organisational challenges and craft evidence-based solutions.

Key programme pillars, such as reflective practice, ethical leadership, emotional intelligence, and strategic decision-making, played a significant role in shaping his professional identity. The blend of academic rigour with lived experience allowed him to approach leadership with greater empathy, agility, and resilience.

The collaborative environment at DaVinci, supported by action learning sets and research supervision, further enhanced his analytical depth and ability to navigate complex organisational behaviour.

A Family Pillar of Strength

Mahlase also expressed deep gratitude to his wife, Manape Matjekane, and their children, whose unwavering love and support provided the foundation he needed to pursue his studies. Their encouragement, he said, was instrumental in helping him reach this milestone.

A Future Shaped by Innovation and Purpose

Godfrey Mahlase’s academic journey continues. He will join the 2026 Master of Management in Technology and Innovation cohort, where he aims to deepen his expertise in transformative leadership and innovative organisational strategy.

He looks forward to leveraging the knowledge, frameworks, and tools gained at The DaVinci Institute to drive sustainable success in an evolving business landscape.

The DaVinci Institute proudly congratulates Titus Tembo on achieving Cum Laude honours in his Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership, an accomplishment that underscores his intellectual excellence, professional commitment, and dedication to advancing South Africa’s fintech landscape.

Tembo shared his reflections as part of DaVinci’s Graduate Spotlight Series, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to recount the journey that shaped both his leadership and personal growth.

A Transformative Leadership Journey

For Tembo, pursuing the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership was driven by a desire to enhance his strategic leadership capabilities in a rapidly evolving fintech environment. The qualification, he explains, broadened his understanding of organisational behaviour, improved his decision-making skills, and deepened his appreciation for aligning strategy with operational execution.

“Completing the programme was truly transformative,” he shared. “It strengthened my resilience, sharpened my professional capability, and helped me grow as a leader. Achieving the qualification Cum Laude was a moment of pride and a reflection of discipline, persistence, and commitment,” said Tembo.

Research That Advances Financial Inclusion

At the heart of Tembo’s academic journey was a research study focused on alternative credit scoring at Lime Loans South Africa. His work was driven by a meaningful purpose: addressing financial exclusion affecting individuals without formal credit histories.

His research demonstrated that incorporating behavioural, transactional, and digital data into credit assessment models leads to more accurate and responsible lending decisions. These insights have the potential to reduce barriers for underserved communities, increase operational efficiency, and support regulatory alignment within South Africa’s evolving financial landscape.

This work highlights the power of research-driven innovation and its capacity to create practical, socially relevant solutions.

Overcoming Challenges Through Resilience and Support

Tembo’s journey was not without difficulty. Balancing full-time leadership responsibilities with academic commitments, navigating data privacy constraints, and confronting moments of self-doubt were among the challenges he faced.

He credits his family, colleagues, and academic supervisor for providing invaluable support.

“The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration in leadership. You don’t achieve meaningful things alone. Having people who believe in you matters,” Tembo reflected.

Leading Innovation and Inspiring Others

With his qualification complete, Tembo is focused on shaping the future of fintech through innovative thinking, strategic leadership, and mentorship. He is passionate about guiding emerging leaders and committed to pursuing long-term growth through advanced studies and leadership development.

Looking back on his journey, he hopes to inspire other DaVinci students with a message of resilience and belief.

“I hope my journey encourages others to remain committed, ask for help when they need it, and believe in their ability to complete their studies,” Tembo concluded. 

It is rare to meet someone who combines professional ambition with a deep commitment to personal growth. Thandeka Mfeka, a recent Master of Business Leadership graduate from The DaVinci Institute, exemplifies this balance. She has navigated the rigorous demands of her postgraduate studies while sharpening her leadership skills and expanding her professional impact.

Meet Thandeka Mfeka: DaVinci Graduate and Emerging Leader

Shortly after her graduation, Mfeka shared her reflections on the journey.

“I pursued this qualification because I reached a point in my life where I knew I needed to grow beyond my comfort zone. I wanted to understand leadership not just as a title, but as a responsibility to myself, my work, and the people I serve. The journey has reshaped how I see myself. Leadership begins with self-awareness, discipline, and courage. Today, I approach challenges with more confidence, knowing that I am capable, prepared, and still evolving,” she explained.

Exploring Entrepreneurial Intent

Mfeka’s dissertation explored entrepreneurial intent among postgraduate business students. She chose this topic out of curiosity about what drives individuals to step into entrepreneurship, particularly in environments where innovation is critical.

“Through this research, I learned that entrepreneurship is not just about resources; it is deeply connected to belief, belief in oneself, in one’s ideas, and in the possibility of creating something meaningful. Mentorship, exposure, and supportive faculty can turn hesitation into action. This insight has reshaped how I view potential, not just in others, but in myself,” Thandeka reflected.

Overcoming Challenges

Like any ambitious journey, her Master’s programme had its challenges. “There were moments when the workload felt overwhelming, and life outside academia demanded more than I had to give. Balancing everything felt impossible at times,” she admitted.

What helped her push through was resilience, routines, and small celebrations of progress. She also leaned on her support system, which included family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and her supervisor. “Their encouragement reminded me that even when I doubted myself, I was not walking in the dark; I had people who believed in me. Success is never a solo achievement; it is built through love, patience, and community,” she said.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

Thandeka highlights that growth often hides in discomfort. The assignments that challenged her, the debates that stretched her thinking, and the feedback that forced refinement all contributed to her personal and professional development. She also emphasised the value of community, noting that her peers and mentors were a source of strength throughout the journey.

Looking ahead, Thandeka is most excited about possibility and purpose. “I am stepping into spaces that once intimidated me and turning fear into purpose. I want to lead with empathy, courage, and conviction, and I am eager to write the next chapter of my story with clarity and confidence,” she shared.

Future Goals and Advice for Students

Mfeka is focused on roles that challenge her to think bigger and lead boldly, while continuing to evolve personally. “I aim to grow into a leader who not only achieves, but inspires, builds others up, and creates meaningful, sustainable impact,” she said.

For students facing doubts or struggles, her advice is simple yet profound: “Be patient with yourself. Growth doesn’t always look like big leaps; sometimes it’s just the courage to take one small step. Ask for help, lean on your support system, and trust that your journey is preparing you in ways you may not yet understand. You belong here, your effort matters, and every difficult moment shapes you into someone stronger and wiser.”

Celebrating a Milestone

With her Master’s degree in hand, Thandeka Mfeka joins the growing community of DaVinci alumni who are excelling professionally while inspiring others through dedication, resilience, and purpose. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and the transformative impact of education.

What does the identification of future technological operations in ICT and ISP look like? BCX’s Head: Field Operations and Logistics and The DaVinci Institute’s master’s alumnus, Frederik Raath’s study explored how organisations in the ICT and ISP sectors can identify the operational success criteria required to maintain a sustainable competitive advantage in an environment shaped by rapid technological evolution, shifting customer expectations, and increasing market competition. Using a qualitative research approach, the study focuses on understanding lived experiences, operational challenges, and cultural dynamics within organisations undergoing technological transformation.

The central research question investigated what kind of framework would ensure continuous operational success and customer value within ICT and ISP environments. Through extensive literature review and interviews with experienced industry leaders, the research concludes that culture forms the foundation of operational excellence. A strong, aligned organisational culture enables more effective change management, which in turn supports improved customer-centric operations.

Scope and Nature of the Study

The ICT and ISP sectors are characterised by high-speed technological innovation and escalating customer expectations. As customers become more informed and demand greater value at lower cost, organisations face increasing pressure to modernise their operations. Traditional models, designed for standardised services, struggle to keep pace with new, complex solutions such as IoT and customer-specific solutions (CSS).

Research Problem

The study identifies three primary operational challenges:

• Execution and fulfilment barriers leading to customer dissatisfaction and unexpected costs.
• Ineffective change management, with teams struggling to adapt outdated processes to new technologies.
• Cultural misalignment, where employees resist change or lack the skills and mindset for future-oriented operations.

Aims and Objectives

The research aims to identify operational success criteria that enable organisations to continuously add value to existing and future customers. Objectives include:

• Determining performance criteria for ongoing operational success.
• Identifying organisational features that support effective change management.
• Understanding the cultural elements required to sustain future operations.

Primary and Secondary Research Questions

The guiding question asks what framework ensures continuous operational success and customer value. Secondary questions explore performance criteria, change management characteristics, and cultural elements essential for organisational fit.

Theoretical Foundation and Literature Review

Current operational models used in ICT and ISP environments often rely on outdated, sequential business process frameworks that do not accommodate modern product diversity, such as IoT solutions. Traditional “cookie-cutter” execution approaches no longer work in environments where each customer may require a unique solution.

Key gaps identified include:

• Lack of proactive customer visibility.
• Insufficient operational readiness criteria.
• Rigid opportunity-evaluation processes that slow down responsiveness.
• Misalignment between market-leadership strategies and customer-experience expectations.

Change Management

Successful transformation requires seamless alignment between business functions, technical systems, and staff capabilities. The literature reveals that change-management failures often arise from siloed operations, limited staff buy-in, and inadequate support structures. Future change models must integrate mindset shifts, process redesign, and skills development.

Culture

Culture emerges as a dominant factor influencing both operational success and the ability to innovate. A winning culture requires clarity of purpose, psychological safety, accountability, and continuous learning. Organisations with stagnant or risk-averse cultures struggle to embrace new technologies or adapt to evolving customer needs.

Research Design and Methodology

A qualitative, phenomenological approach was used to capture leaders’ lived experiences in managing technological and operational transitions. Purposive sampling targeted experts such as CTOs and COOs with more than 15 years of industry experience. Semi-structured interviews provided rich insights into operational challenges, cultural barriers, and success factors.

Presentation of Findings

Theme A: Best Performance Criteria

Interview findings emphasise:

• Clear customer visibility.
• Flexible and responsive operations.
• Defined operational readiness requirements.
• Continuous review of fulfilment quality and cost structures.

Theme B: Effective Change Management

Key success criteria include:

• Transparent communication across business units.
• Clear ownership of processes.
• Skills alignment for emerging technologies.
• Metrics and tools to track change progress.

Theme C: Cultural Elements for Success

Participants identified the need for:

• A culture of accountability.
• Openness to learning and innovation.
• Employee empowerment and ownership.
• Breaking comfort-zone behaviours to adapt to new markets.

Recommendations and Action Plans

Culture

Building a winning culture is the foundation for operational transformation. Leadership must nurture psychological safety, support continuous learning, and create an environment where employees see themselves as contributors to future success.

Change Management

Change management should be an embedded, ongoing organisational function rather than a periodic project. Structures must support faster decision-making, skills development, and cross-functional collaboration.

Delighting Future Customers

Organisations must shift toward customer-centric delivery by:

• Leveraging real-time data and predictive insights.
• Redesigning business processes for agility.
• Continuously redefining “customer value” in line with technology trends.

Further Research

Continuous research is needed into emerging customer-experience expectations and how technology innovations reshape operational success criteria.

Dr Gabapelo Emmanuel Phillip, could you please give us a brief overview of your career to date?

I am an industry expert with two decades of experience spanning higher education, corporate sector and business consultancy. My professional purpose lies in bridging the gap between academia and industry, to transform insight into impact through strategy, innovation and knowledge-driven decision making. I led various projects across the telecommunications, higher education, and consulting sectors, implementing data-driven solutions that enabled business growth and digital transformation. Currently, I am a lecturer at Botswana’s leading School of Business. I deliver innovation and graduate employability-aligned programmes informed by market and national development priorities, focusing on curriculum renewal to create learning experience that is both relevant and transformative. I am a Lecturer for modules that include Implementing Strategy & Change, Creative Problem Solving, Entrepreneurship and Business Development.

In industry, I held a managerial role as Head of Marketing and Business Development, and spearheaded the setting up of the Marketing, Admissions and Corporate Training departments at the newly established Botho University campus in Maseru Campus with the primary focus in integrating technology, people, and systems. Managed commercial strategy implementation. B2C & B2B marketing: Business development across the university’s B2C and B2B portfolios and customer experience design with the goal of building partnerships and expanding reach within the country.

Previously, I served as Marketing and Communications Specialist at Mascom Wireless, leading the execution of 3rd-party campaigns, project management and market intelligence initiatives. Crafted short-term commercial strategies rooted in deep market insights and consumer behaviour analysis, delivered a 5-year Compound Annual Growth Revenue double digit growth with extensive use of marketing and operational excellence initiatives.

In a few words, how can you describe your journey to completing your qualification?

This journey was quite intensive and grueling. As a many-years research journey, it means the originality of the study was a key attribute and involved the invention of a problem to tackle, one that was partly solved or was never solved. In the context of my study, the problem related to a set of related KM challenges among the selected Mobile Network Operators in Botswana’s Telecommunications Sector. I credit The DaVinci Institute for much of the success thanks to the genuine care and mentorship from my supervisors, who introduced me to the richness of various theories and the rigorous methodologies that grounded my study and shaped the way I think. This demonstration of critical and creative skills has occurred – a deep knowledge of the knowledge management field, advanced methods of inquiry, and the ability to synthesize different sets of developments within the field.

What was your most significant challenge that you faced during your doctorate journey at The DaVinci Institute, and how did you overcome that?

The passing of my academic supervisor, Professor Joel Chigada, was quite painful. He passed on in February 2025, a few days before receiving feedback from external examinations. I remain so indebted to that man!

The DaVinci Institute has as part of its learner support system, assigned psychologists to every doctoral candidate for a quarterly ‘meet and chat’ and this helped a great deal. These interactions indeed provided what one could call the ‘DaVinci experience’ and here we are. I finally got my capping!

Can you share a moment or an experience during your doctoral studies that had a profound impact on your thinking or approach to your research?

I was invited to participate as a doctoral student presenter in one of the monthly colloquial sessions held at The DaVinci House. With many of the subject matter experts attending these colloquial sessions, they become a hub for forward-looking scholarly discussions and opportunity for eye opening conversations. Coming out of the colloquial session, I thought it strengthened my analytical and research capabilities that enabled this study to succeed, leading to the successful development of a tailored KM framework, conceptualised to be the solution for driving sustainable development and transformation of the selected MNOs in Botswana and the telecommunications sector at large, both locally and globally. As they say, colloquia is usually a space where research meets practice

Can you describe how you incorporated the DaVinci Institute’s TIPS™ Framework in your study, and the value it added to your research?

The DaVinci Institute’s TIPS™ Framework plays a significant role from a technology, innovation, people and systems perspective because organisations need to survive, grow and innovate. MNOs need to embrace the new change. The development of the conceptual KM framework for the selected MNOs in this study was founded on the interlocking tenets of interconnectedness and interrelationships across the functional areas of organisations. It looked beyond individual organisations’ boundaries to ensure the multiple stakeholders understand the bigger picture and consequently, to appreciate the other components of a system (the organisation) being interlinked.

The TIPS™ Business Framework espouses for the high-level co-creation of knowledge and collaboration, recognition of synergistic accomplishments and workplace integration that views the organisation as a system, determining patterns that may help an organisation to develop effective operational methods.  With TIPS™ Business Framework emphasises for alignment of organisational processes and thus, the development of the KM framework, conceptualised in the context of 4IR, through embracing of the TIPS™ business framework, Botswana’s MNOs, and even the telecommunications sector regionally and globally, will be able to enhance their current processes, be it processes, financial models and even from a profitability perspective.

Dr Gabapelo Emmanuel Phillip, What impact would your research have on your organisation, your community or society at large?

A significant contribution for development of the conceptual framework to these MNOs is the promise for enhanced knowledge access to individuals. In essence, the knowledge acquired will serve as a compass to steer MNOs towards sound financial strategies due to reduced wastages, enhanced performance levels, the efficiency of telecommunications networks, providing invaluable insights into areas of resource allocation, risk assessment and strategic planning.

Further, without knowledge, society may not be aware of the many opportunities that the economy has to offer and, therefore, may be excluded from effectively participating in the knowledge economy. Equitable knowledge access, from the success of the conceptual KM framework will enable citizens to have facilitated access to the various services provided by the government using multiple telecommunication platforms. With the telecommunications sector considered the backbone of connectivity and driver for 4IR, these cutting-edge innovations and advanced technologies will significantly empower the industry and society, enhancing user experiences, improving reliability, and revolutionising the way people communicate.

What advice would you give to incoming doctoral students at The DaVinci Institute, considering your own experience and the insights that you have gained along your journey?

Embarking on a doctoral journey is a monumental task that requires dedication and a support system to guide you through the numerous challenges. To complete a doctorate can be daunting and a successful completion of the doctoral journey should be a recognised rite of passage to acknowledge one’s entrance into the community of scholars within their discipline. Inevitably, it matches the magnitude of the challenge that one would have met through their journey of study. This, therefore, underscores the importance of having an appropriate support system and ‘cheerleaders’ to keep you motivated, encouraging you to consistently show up at your best.

It is not every day that you meet someone who blends professional expertise with a relentless drive to learn. Tebogo Gazide, a recent Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management graduate from The DaVinci Institute, is one such individual. As a Client Desirability Analyst at FNB South Africa, she skillfully navigates the complex world of risk operations and management, all while having completed her degree in Project Management.

Meet Tebogo Gazide: DaVinci Graduate and FNB Analyst

We caught up with Tebogo shortly after her graduation ceremony, and her pride was palpable.

“To be honest, at first I was not really sure what qualification I wanted to pursue. Reflecting on her academic journey. However, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with business analysts and project managers at work, which influenced my decision to pursue business management with a focus on project management. That experience has shaped how I approach both my personal and professional life,” she shared.

Balancing a demanding corporate role with academic commitments was no small feat. Tebogo manages the termination of flagged customers, oversees off-boarding processes, communicates across departments, and continuously refines operational procedures. Yet, even with a packed schedule, she remained steadfast in completing her degree.

Overcoming Challenges

“There were moments when giving up felt easier. Finding the balance between work, life, and completing my degree was my biggest challenge. What helped me push through was remembering why I started and my desire to succeed,” she admitted.

Time management quickly became her most vital skill. She learnt that juggling work, life, and school will drain you, and one area will fall behind if you do not manage your time right. 

“I had to ensure I submitted quality work on time and stayed committed to all my modules,” she shared. 

Her support system played a critical role in her success. Her mother and her partner were her biggest supporters. 

“Their encouragement kept me going. But ultimately, it was my own desire to succeed and earn this degree that motivated me to reach the finish line,” she explained. 

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

Gazide’s journey was shaped by key lessons that extend far beyond academics. Time management, dedication, and perseverance stand out for her. These lessons are not just applicable to studies but to life and career growth as well.

As she steps into the next chapter, she is most excited about opportunities for personal development and career growth. “This achievement will hopefully open many doors and allow me to grow further in my field. Professionally, I aim to climb the corporate ladder and eventually take on a project management role,” she shared. 

Encouragement for Current and Future DaVinci Students

For students who may be struggling or doubting themselves, Tebogo has this advice: “Always remember the end goal and why you started. The journey is not easy, but with the right support system, it will be worth it.”

Reflecting on her milestone, she shared on social media, “There were moments when giving up felt easier, when the goal seemed too far, and the load felt too heavy, but I kept going. I showed up for myself, even when it was hard, and that’s what makes this milestone so special. This degree is a symbol of faith, perseverance, and countless sacrifices. I’m proud of how far I have come and excited for what is ahead. Here is to every lesson, every challenge, and every victory that led me here. I did it, and I did it with heart.”

With her degree in hand, Tebogo Gazide joins the growing community of DaVinci alumni who are not only excelling in their careers but also demonstrating resilience, purpose, and dedication, setting an inspiring example for those following in their footsteps.

This month, The DaVinci Institute honours the remarkable students who completed their programmes on 30th October. Among them is Jana Britz, who has graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership, a milestone reflecting her dedication, perseverance, and vision for the future. Her project, “Greenwashing Marketing Tactics: The Effect of Greenwashing on Brand Confidence and Consumer Behaviour,” explores the impact of misleading environmental claims on consumer trust and brand perception, highlighting her keen insight into contemporary marketing challenges.

The Journey to Graduation

“This moment feels incredibly special, not only for the result, but for the journey it took to get here,” shares Britz. 

Balancing her studies with work and personal life was challenging. There were late nights, early mornings, and moments when doubt crept in, questioning whether she was capable of reaching the finish line. Imposter syndrome often made an appearance, but Britz’s determination never wavered.

Support from Loved Ones

Britz emphasises that her family’s support was equally vital. “My husband and family made just as many sacrifices, saying no to Saturday rugby games, birthday get-togethers, midweek visits, and even shortened holidays. Their patience and support made this possible, and I am endlessly grateful,” she says.

Learning from Others

Along the way, Britz connected with incredible minds who reminded her that there will always be someone more skilled, more qualified, or more insightful. Rather than being intimidated, this became a source of motivation. 

“As the saying goes, ‘you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.’ I have been lucky to be surrounded by some exceptional ones,” she reflects.

Looking Ahead

With one chapter closing, another begins. Britz is now preparing to apply for her MPSA designation (Marketing Professional of South Africa) through the Marketing Association of South Africa (MASA), with the long-term goal of becoming a Chartered Marketer (CMSA).

It has been a journey of hard work, reflection, and growth, and this graduation marks not only an achievement but a stepping stone to even greater aspirations.