Category: DaVinci Alumni

Dineo Sebatana is our remarkable alumna. Having recently graduated with a Master of Management in Technology and Innovation, she is now poised to continue in navigating the dynamic landscape of the world of work. Armed with the qualification, Dineo has honed her ability to analyse complex challenges and devise innovative, sustainable solutions. In this recent engagement with her, Dineo speaks with insightful candour and in the most incisive terms about the journey thus far…

Dineo Sebatana, an accomplished IT professional with a track record of driving innovation and excellence in South Africa’s corporate landscape, her career began as a developer, and she has since played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of some leading corporations. Dineo’s expertise spans backend, frontend, and integration domains. She has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives that promote modernisation within major South African corporations.

Specialising in crafting high-quality system requirements and processes aligning with the organisation’s vision, Dineo leads a team of Systems Analysts. Known for her exceptional leadership in developing people, ensuring well-being, managing expectations, and enforcing process compliance, she played a significant role in enhancing website functionality and access to investment portfolios and documents for a major client.

Additionally, she led the integration of online share trading capabilities into mobile banking applications, earning recognition for her efforts. Dineo spearheaded critical application upgrades, enabling efficient reconciliation of accounts. Her journey in IT began as a trainee developer, contributing to mortgage loan applications. Overall, it is important to note that Dineo’s career is marked by her strategic acumen, innovative solutions, and commitment to driving modernisation and efficiency within South Africa’s corporate landscape.

Dineo’s professional journey in the IT field is nothing short of remarkable. In addition, she has achieved significant academic milestones, culminating in the completion of her Master’s degree qualification with The DaVinci Institute.

Influenced largely by a fruitful career in IT, Dineo’s dissertation entitled: “Dynamics of Working in a Dispersed Environment in a South African Retail and Commercial Bank”, is aimed at examining the dynamics of working in a dispersed environment for Agile Software Development within the context of one of the South African banks – as the title itself suggests. This study identified the challenge of dispersed teams working together on ASD and confronted by unpredictable business circumstances in the South African banking industry. The theoretical framework which underpinned this study was General Systems Theory. This study also critically reviewed relevant and recent literature on Agile Software Development and working in a dispersed environment.

Consequently, the study’s findings showed that the impact of ASD team member participation on the communication and collaboration dynamics was examined by assessing other parts of the system, such as the dispersed environment, tools, and work-life balance. Further, this study recommends that the bank conducts multiple professional development training workshops on working in dispersed environments; the needs of the employees must mainly guide those workshops. Furthermore, theoretically and practically, this study contributes to team performance according to the team performance model.

When asked about the attributes that ensured her success in this journey, Dineo credits her unwavering resolve. This determination empowered her to confront academic challenges head-on, maintain focus, and diligently work towards achieving her Master’s qualification. She emphasises that her unwavering resolve was key to consistent progress and mastering the subjects.

Furthermore, Dineo demonstrated extraordinary resilience, enabling her to overcome hurdles and sustain continuous effort and learning throughout her academic journey. This resilience played a pivotal role in her ultimate success. With a clear, future-oriented vision, Dineo strategically aligned her academic pursuits with broader career objectives in technology and innovation management. This ensured that her studies were not only comprehensive but also relevant and strategically aligned with evolving industry trends.

When quizzed about the upcoming steps on her journey, Dineo declares that the future path is illuminated by her passion for technology and personal well-being. She could potentially pioneer technological innovations that enhance personal well-being, focusing on mental health, overall personal development and skills development. Through mentorship and coaching, she hopes to guide and empower others on their journeys. Collaborative partnerships with organisations focused on skills development and well-being, coupled with continuous personal learning and adaptation, could further augment her impact. In essence, Dineo is poised to blend her technological expertise with a heartfelt commitment to nurturing skills and personal growth, and well-being in others.

It is judicious, therefore, to afford the sagacious insights of Dineo the honour of concluding this narrative, as she imparts a discerning perspective for advice: “Embarking on this academic journey is a transformative experience. First and foremost, embrace every challenge you encounter. Each difficulty is an opportunity to build resilience and learn. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, mentors and peers whose guidance and support will be invaluable in your journey. Prioritise your well-being, ensuring you maintain a healthy balance between your studies, work (where applicable) and personal life.

“Let your passion be the driving force behind your efforts, keeping you motivated and focused. Lastly, maintain a mindset of continuous learning. Be receptive to new ideas, knowledge, and experiences, as they are crucial for your growth and adaptation in the ever-evolving fields of leadership, technology and innovation.”

Errol Arthur Pillay is our recent Master’s graduate; today, we keenly look into his career, academic path, and the factors that may have contributed to his accomplishments.

When asked to take a deep dive in looking back and provide an overview of his career, the genesis of which occurred after completing a National Diploma in Human Resources Management, accords our Master’s alumnus, Errol Arthur Pillay.

Accordingly, Errol then developed his career as an HR officer in the banking, pharma, FMCG, and ICT industries. During this time, he furthered his studies and obtained a B Tech Degree in Human Resources Management. Two decades later, Errol exited the corporate world as General Manager of Human Resources.

Errol yielded to his deep desire to live a life of purpose – he became the CEO of Afrika Tikkun Services (ATS), a start-up social enterprise serving township communities in the NGO space. At ATS, Errol was able to express his call to serve and applied his skills in co-creating pathways towards change for youth seeking to unlock their full potential.

Errol is currently the COO and one of the founding shareholders of Insignis Solutions. In this role, he lives out his purpose. Infused with a need to express his call of service to others, this purpose is influenced by the insight that youth development in South Africa is currently missing the mark, according to Errol, and, as he continues, noting that the current high investment in youth development is not producing sustainable returns. This reality is not helpful to a South African economy that is in crisis and desperately in need of skills to help change the negative growth outlook. Errol further surmises that youth skills contribute significantly to the South African labour pool, and how these skills are developed may stand the country in good stead as the economy is being rebuilt.

The question, asks Errol, is: “Are we getting a return on investment for youth development and, if not, what is missing in our approach?”

In attempting to answer the question, Errol’s dissertation seeked to understand the relevance of a psychosocial development framework in youth employability development programmes in South Africa. The study further researched how evident the relationship between psychosocial development and youth employability is and identified gaps in current employability development programmes that can be addressed to attend to the psychosocial development needs of youth entering the world of work. Participants included unemployed youth, employed youth, potential youth employers and youth skills training providers.

After analysis, the emergent themes from the interviews were: Coaching and self-management, development as an enabler, youth employability, psychosocial development and ways of closing the gap. The results of this study propose a review of the current approach to a more holistic approach. An approach where psychosocial development becomes compulsory in a holistic youth development approach in youth skills development in South Africa, “a country where intentional youth development programmes are essential for our continued existence”, as Errol adds.

When asked to share what ensured the success of uncovering the study’s findings, Errol credits the desire to be a better version of himself daily, along with his personal experience with a youth development approach that considers the value of psychosocial development. Errol’s desire is to make a meaningful contribution that will help young people discover their full potential.

In recounting his journey to completing the dissertation, Errol states as follows: “This was one of the most challenging things to do, as I had to face so much self-doubt and criticism. I am inherently very hard on myself. It was also liberating, allowing me to re-discover my potential and contribution at this phase of my life. I have also learnt the value of being gentle with myself and the brilliance that is unlocked by this action. Overall, it reminded me that God still has a purpose for my life. I am overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Much like his acknowledgment of the challenging academic path he traversed, however, “it has given me more confidence in my writing ability and to see value in my thinking”, concedes the reflective Errol.

We are thrilled to present our esteemed doctoral alumnus, Dr Glen Jordan, engaging in a conversation with DaVinci about his remarkable career and academic path. Dr Jordan graciously imparts wisdom and guidance for individuals aspiring to embark on the challenging yet rewarding journey of education and personal development. Delving into the origins of his thesis and its core essence, Dr Jordan sheds light on the intricacies of his research. Join us in this enlightening Q&A session to gain insights from one of our remarkable alumni, whose passion for co-creation, exploration, and solution-oriented thinking resonates profoundly throughout this compelling discourse…

Please give us a brief overview of your career to date

First, allow me to express my gratitude to God for blessing me with a career and guiding me on this journey. I initially began my career as an electrician, undergoing training and obtaining a technical diploma. Subsequently, I transitioned into the teaching profession as a technical teacher, gaining valuable insights into the social realities of the communities surrounding the school where I taught.

In 1995, I joined Eskom Distribution as a technician and swiftly became part of the project management community within the Eskom Distribution Business. Throughout this period, I dedicated much of my time to managing projects that involved electrifying households in various communities across the Free State, Northern Cape, North-West, and later the East Rand. This afforded me the opportunity to engage with diverse stakeholders both within and outside of Eskom, providing me with a profound understanding of the lived experiences of communities lacking access to electricity.

I held different positions in the project management environment, ranging from Project Manager and Programme Manager to Middle Manager, Portfolio Manager and Project Execution. In 2012, I joined the Eskom Project Management Office as the Chief Advisor for Project Management and later assumed the role of manager for the Compliance and Advisory Section. In this department, I gained experience in organizational project management, collaborating with various project actors across all Eskom divisions.

Your thesis is entitled: A Leadership Framework to Re-configure the Project Management Office in ESKOM to Embrace Project Management for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Please provide us with a blurb on the purpose of your research and its contribution

With all the advanced project management software, tools, and technology available to project managers today, projects are still failing alarmingly. The well-reported project failures in South Africa, which ran over budget and behind schedule as well as the quality issues experienced on some of them, include:

I. The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Programme cost R17.4-billion rather than the R11.4-billion initially estimated.

II. The Gautrain budget increased from an original estimate of R6.8-billion to R25.2-billion.

III. The capital cost of Transnet’s New Multi-Product Pipeline grew from an estimated R12.7-billion to R30.4-billion.

IV. Eskom’s Medupi and Kusile projects surged from initial estimates of R70-billion and R80-billion respectively, to R208-billion-plus for Medupi and about R240-billion for Kusile (Watermeyer and Phillips, 2020).

The world is now operating in the industry 4.0 economy which calls for a business model that embeds strong project management methodologies and techniques, supported by strong leadership initiatives to increase project management as a core competency (Steyn and Zovitsky, 2018).

Many organisations, including Eskom, have implemented an Enterprise Program Management Office (EPMO) to improve their project management performance. However, the phenomena observed by the researcher is the EPMO’s lack of authority exacerbated by a lack of collaboration and engagement between the Senior Managers in the Eskom Program Management Office and the Senior Managers in the Eskom Distribution Asset Creation Offices, leading to the poor adoption of the Eskom Deliver Project Methodology by the Distribution Offices. If this lack of authority and poor level of collaboration between Senior Managers that is hampering the adoption of the Deliver Project methodology within the Distribution business remains unchanged, project performance will remain stagnant.

This research investigated the linkages between the EPMO and the Distribution Project Offices that are influencing the poor adoption of the Eskom Deliver Project Methodology by the Distribution Business, with the aim to develop a leadership framework to re-configure the Eskom Project Management office to prepare Eskom Distribution for project management in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

There has not been much research focusing on developing a leadership framework for transforming the traditional Project Management Office (PMO) to prepare organisations for project management in Industry 4.0 in the South African context. This research aims to fill that vacuum. The research will also contribute to the limited research (Tsaturyan and Müller, 2015) conducted on the linkages between the EPMO and multiple Project Offices from a practitioner’s perspective. The major contribution of this study is the development of a leadership framework which can be used as a guide to assist State-Owned Entities in transforming their traditional project management offices into Flexible project management offices to respond to the disruption of project management in Industry 4.0.

What would you say your three greatest attributes or characteristics are as a person that aided you on your journey?

Humility – To stay humble. Emotional intelligence – To accept criticism from examiners no matter how harsh. Honesty – Be honest and truthful to yourself and others.

In a few words, describe your journey to completing your qualification

It was a long and lonely journey; a tough journey as I was far from my supervisor and had to travel from Bloemfontein to Witbank if I wanted to have a face-to-face session with him. However, this journey increased my humility, increased my perseverance, and increased my understanding of the research process.

How did your journey impact your way of thinking and (or) life?

To accept that there are multiple realities out there and those realities need to be understood and should be respected. The DaVinci Institute’s TIPS™ Managerial Leadership Framework has made a huge impact on my work life.

What is next for you on your path of remarkability?

I am planning to increase my presence in the organisational project management research fraternity.

If you could give advice to a student embarking on this journey, what would you say?

Understand the process as being a marathon and not a sprint. Collaborate with your peers and Lectures. Foster a good professional relationship with your academic supervisor. Attend as much research and writing workshops as you can. Ask for assistance.

Introducing our remarkable alumnus, Dr Rhulani Ernest Mahlaule, whose commitment to his academic journey reflects a passion for African solutions, guided by factual reasoning and innovation. Driven by the goal of co-creating strategies, Dr Mahlaule envisions a future where Africa transcends historical stagnation, guided by the lessons learned during his impactful odyssey.

Our alumnus, Dr Rhulani Ernest Mahlaule comes with a rich background of boardroom work, as he is currently group chairman at Destiny Holdings and Destiny Business Science, chairman at Beyond Covid NPC, board member at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), council and finance committee member at the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), and global board member at the Circle for Global Business Women (CGBW).Previously, the man had served as director of companies, including serving as president at the JCCI, group chairman at the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), chairman of risk and audit committee at the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance, as well as the Global Advisory Committee for Advancing Business Executives (ABE) UK.

This wealth of leadership experience may have moulded his views, shaped his thought about the state of the world – or even the African continent. In fact, Dr Mahlaule is of the perspective that the developed world has long demonstrated that there is collective leverage to be obtained in countries of the same continent – therefore, putting aside any differences they may have and optimising opportunities, this could potentially be achieved through working together as a united economic and socio-political force. This is a function of countries that maintain the necessary levels of mutual trust as evidenced by electing to trade more with one another before considering other continents. He adds, noting: “African states continue to conduct limited trade amongst themselves, characterised by high external alignment and orientation.”

Dr Mahlaule further surmises that trading more with one another, as an actual practice, usually contributes to improved levels of economic growth and political stability. Interestingly, several studies refer to the high levels of intra-trade in the European Union and Asia, amongst others; but the question that remains unanswered is why Africa, with all its natural resources, continues to lag behind.

In endeavouring to respond to this question, Dr Mahlaule embarked on an academic quest as a means for further investigation throughhis doctoral study with The DaVinci Institute.His thesis, thus, entitled: Intra-Africa Trade Integration and Continental Economic Prosperity,was aimed at identifying that which is needed to be done for Africa to realise its full potential. The current low levels of an estimated 12% to 18% intra-trade in the African continent, as Dr Mahlaule points, require concerted efforts to improve financial outcomes to attain levels on par or even above those of its counterparts, such as the European Union (EU) and Asia, that are in excess of 60%.

Which is why this study aims to identify the constraints that contribute towards the current sub-optimal intra-Africa trade activities and the recommended solutions in seeking to address these issues.

The key findings indicate that due consideration should be given to the fact that for the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement to be scalable towards the realisation of the intended outcomes, the adoption and customisation of identified catalytic digital solutions will play a central role in enabling the process. The findings further point to a conceptual framework for a continental social compact where all key stake holders put their trust deficit pre-occupations aside and work collaboratively. Moreover, the study’s recommendations are that in achieving the lofty ambitions of growing the economy of the continent, the key stakeholders comprising business, government, academia, social partners and labour should be willing to embrace the digital era; which, in this context, is underpinned by the Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, such as blockchain, as a platform to enable the chosen e-commerce-based solutions.

Dr Mahlaule sees his academic journey as a quest of “[c]ommitment to always finish what one starts irrespective of the circumstance, [of] interest in complex phenomenon underpinned by the love for knowledge acquisition, and curiosity for exploring/finding solutions for Africa by Africans themselves, instead of relying on dominant global narratives.”

According to Dr Mahlaule, this academic path has been characterised by both challenges and opportunities simultaneously. Challenges include the opportunity cost for family, friends, and business, all due to prolonged hours of research and writing. On the other hand, opportunities, such as exploration and in-depth knowledge acquisition, accompany one throughout the broader discourse. Despite being a relatively independent journey, “it would not have been attainable without the constant support of The DaVinci Institute’s team.”

In addition, as he notes: “Since embarking on the research work, my approach to life, in general, is one of zero tolerance for speculative narratives. Instead, I adhere to standardized primary sources and factual reasoning at all times, with a heightened intrinsic instinct for innovation and creativity. This has led to improved critical analysis and intense knowledge in relation to what needs to be done to enhance intra-Africa trade.”

Therefore, as further asserted by Dr Mahlaule, his thesis stands as a robust foundation, providing a solid platform “for another chapter in the ongoing intra-trade implementation processes characterized by practical engagements and value-add through continuous research, writing books, journals, articles, conference platforms, speaking engagements, as well as participating in structures that seek to create African solutions and improve its position in the geo-economic and political disposition. Driven by the goal of being among the thought leaders and stakeholders who will continue to co-create and implement strategies toward the elevation of the African continent beyond its many years of stagnation, despite all interventions attempted since the formation of the OAU 59 years ago.”

Ever wise through reflection and experience, as a seasoned sage, when imparting guidance to students venturing upon this odyssey, the words of wisdom unfurl as follows: “The journey can keep one very busy to the point of isolation and loneliness if not well managed. It is important to be organized, set goals, and strike a good balance between business, professional, family, and social life. Consider joining an academic community to benefit from others’ lived experiences, maintain self-motivation, and avoid common setbacks such as procrastination.”

Introducing Dr Modise Philemon Tshwana, a remarkable individual whose intellectual odyssey culminated in the acquisition of a doctoral qualification. Freshly graduated from The DaVinci Institute, Dr Tshwana graciously shares insights into the nuances of his doctoral pursuit, and the unwavering motivations that propelled him through this scholarly sojourn.

Dr Modise Philemon Tshwana is a self-employed farmer, presently pursuing the breeding of broiler chickens, traditional, and other hybrid chickens such as Koekkoek, Rhode Island Red, Black Australorp, and Orpingtons on his own farm. In this engaging Q&A, discover the compelling narrative of Dr Tshwana’s academic expedition and the forces that fuelled his unwavering commitment.

Your thesis is entitled: “The Role of Colleges of Agriculture Towards Sustainable Community Development: A Case Study of Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture.” Please provide us with a blurb on the purpose of your research and its contribution.

The purpose of my research study was to identify factors and conditions at both institutional and national levels that facilitate or inhibit colleges of agriculture, such as Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture, from making contributions to sustainable agriculture and the socio-economic development of the surrounding rural communities. The contribution of the study was the establishment of the Bakone Development Forum, whose main purpose was to facilitate all structures within the communities next to Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture to speak with a voice when requiring services from the government. Additionally, the study developed potential guidelines for the effective governance of colleges of agriculture and sporting facilities between the college and communities.

In a few words, describe your journey to completing your qualification.

My journey to completing my PhD was demanding and tiresome. I felt that I should just abruptly end my journey because of the ups and downs. I persevered because I knew that those who had completed their journey had faced similar challenges or even worse than mine; hence, I managed to finish my journey.

What would you say your three greatest attributes or characteristics are as a person that aided you on your journey?

My three greatest attributes that aided my PhD journey are persistence, maturity, and resilience – pushing through challenges and bouncing back from failures.

How did your journey impact your way of thinking and (or) life?

I now spend long hours reading, writing, analysing issues, and have created enough space for both collaborative discussions and intense individual focus.

What is next for you on your path of remarkability?

I will continue writing, publishing, and making presentations of articles at different research proceedings or forums.

If you could give advice to a student embarking on this journey, what would it be?

I would say you should firstly have a reason, love, tolerance, and a vision to pursue a PhD so that you can start, continue, and finish the PhD. It is a marathon and not a track event that one needs to win quickly. Another important issue is to be clear about one’s methodology and sample size, as they guide the research process.

Standing tall as an inspirational symbol of remarkability is our esteemed doctoral alumna, Dr Ilse Smuts. With a wealth of experience in marketing within the banking fraternity, Dr Smuts personifies the convergence of academia and industry expertise. Today, we showcase her transformative journey.

In retracing her career development and educational background in marketing and beyond, upon reflection, Dr Ilse Smuts recollects that, following a period of “18 months in the role of Advertising Representative in the Student Development Department at the University of Pretoria, where I worked while I studied BCom (Hons) in Marketing Management, I accepted a role in banking [FNB South Africa] in 1998”, she says, joining “as a Marketing Assistant. [Thereafter, I] embarked on finishing an MCom in Marketing Management (UP) and was promoted to Marketing Manager, where I learned a lot from the local and international companies we partnered with… In 2008 I was awarded the Sunday Times (Business Times) Marketing Excellence Award as Rising Star of the Year. During my time as part of the company’s marketing fraternity, we worked with countless advertising, media, events and PR agencies to position and promote our brand and value propositions. It was always such a kick to see advertising material in public, especially as one was closely involved in its creation. In 2020, I was granted an opportunity to spread my wings beyond marketing – as Product Growth Head, Lifestage Segments, Retail Cash Investments at FNB South Africa. I’m very pleased to see the market response to our deepened focus on our clients aged 60+. While we have celebrated achieving significant milestones and launching fantastic value propositions, there is still a lot of opportunity for the organisation to cement or increase its leading market share position in all the life-stage segments it serves.”

It is most probably the case that Dr Smuts’ foundational experiences in marketing studies and her professional journey in the banking sector naturally shaped her doctoral studies and guided her thesis, thereby contributing to the development of her comprehensive outlook. In fact, Dr Smuts is of the view that the South African financial services industry holds a relatively high ranking in global competitiveness reports, yet operates in the realities of an emerging market, meaning retail banks are not immune to the changes required to remain successful. Marketing leadership, as customer custodians, can play a vital role by directing their key internal stakeholders’ alignment to evolving customer centricity. Thus, Dr Smuts’ thesis, entitled: “Exploring the Role of Marketing Leadership in Directing Key Internal Stakeholder Alignment with Evolving Customer Centricity: The Case of a South African Retail Bank”, as a case study design conducted in a major bank with a national footprint and various international subsidiaries in broader Africa and beyond, explored the potential broadening of the role of marketing leadership in the studied context.

Findings included that marketing leadership could broaden their role to include the direction of key internal stakeholders’ alignment to evolving customer centricity, that they must have a clear vision for customer centricity and be able to articulate it to their stakeholders, to ensure all are aligned on the vision for customer centricity and their roles in achieving it. It is important for marketing leadership to measure the impact of customer centricity initiatives. The study then concludes that by broadening the role of marketing leadership to include the direction of key internal stakeholder alignment to evolving customer centricity, marketing leadership can play a critical role in improving overall customer centricity. A conceptual framework created to depict this broader role that the bank’s marketing leadership could play was an added contribution to the body of knowledge. Recommendations for future research include conducting more related studies in the region, to advance the discourse.

Conventional wisdom holds that embarking on a meaningful journey involves not only pushing the body to its limits but also exploring the frontiers of the mind. Dr Smuts has truly exemplified this notion, as her determination, focus, and perseverance ensured her triumphant emergence on this educational path. In her own words: “It was tough, but when I look back on the journey, I’m filled with gratitude to the many selfless people who provided guidance and support along the way to achieving this life goal. My critical thinking was sharpened even further. When you think you can’t anymore, you’re wrong – just take a break and pick up where you left off. I now believe, even more than before, where there is a will, there is a way.”

Next on her remarkable journey, says Dr Smuts, is the pursuit of greater balance. She plans to travel the world, spend quality time with friends and family, and focus on her career, aiming to glean insights from diverse places, people, and professional opportunities.

We allow hers to be the last – as she advises: “Ensure you have a solid support network. Delimit your study as much as possible. To have any chance of completing the degree, you will need to work hard and make significant sacrifices, even when you don’t always feel like it.”

Dr Sandra Gertenbach, a recent doctoral graduate from The DaVinci Institute, is fuelled by a fervent drive for investigating and resolving complex problems, culminating in her achievement of the apex qualification. In a candid conversation with DaVinci, Dr Sandra shares insights into her journey and research endeavours.

To embark on the expansive journey of knowledge, delving into the intricate depths of understanding, requires a curious spirit. Such a spirit is exemplified in our latest doctoral graduate, Dr Sandra Gertenbach, whose curiosity, discipline and tenacity “to keep at it”, as she puts it, propelled her forward. In fact, having followed this dedicated process of unpacking insights, as it were, this led to her realisation that the overall high cost of logistics, freight system imbalances and inefficiencies detract from South Africa’s competitiveness.

Thus, Dr Sandra surmises that improved freight intermodalism has the potential to advance the performance of the transport and logistics system – a view shaped throughout the decades while employed by Transnet SOC Ltd (1987-2021).

Having said that, Dr Sandra concluded her career in the position of Executive Manager, Strategy & Business Planning – Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), a subsidiary at Transnet. She possesses extensive experience in strategy development and implementation; in her career, Dr Sandra has also held various positions in the areas of strategy, business planning, customer service, market positioning, stakeholder management, strategic research, and communications.

At a certain juncture, Dr Sandra redirected her trajectory to concentrate on project work and academic pursuits, ultimately earning her Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation, a milestone she remarkably accomplished in September 2023.

Dr Sandra’s thesis, having been informed and influenced by her illustrious career at Transnet, entitled – “Imperatives for the Advancement of Freight Intermodalism in South Africa: A Systems Thinking Approach” – its chief objective was to explore why the adoption of a systems thinking paradigm and the collective interactions between willing freight intermodal system actors, could contribute to the development of intermodalism for national outcomes.

Concurrently, the “study explores why intermodal freight practices are not being developed and implemented and why the system performs at a sub-optimal level with very negative consequences for the country”, Dr Sandra says, and notes in addition: “The topic is viewed as a national development priority for South Africa’s freight logistics industry.” Having completed the research, a pivotal discovery emerged, emphasising the potential for progress through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions aimed at enhancing crucial interfaces among system components. Discussions within focus groups underscored the eagerness of key players to join forces, cooperate, and coordinate their actions to propel the system’s purpose and performance towards transformative outcomes.

Interactions among actors, as Dr Sandra accords, should aim for the co-creation of priority interventions, collectively executed for the enhancement of the country’s freight system.

This study holds significance for application within the freight intermodal industry, involving system actors, policymakers, academics, and advocates alike. Dr Sandra is of the view that enhancing freight intermodal practices is crucial for the nation’s benefit, fostering competitiveness, efficiency, supply chain resilience, and the optimal utilisation and maintenance of transport infrastructure. She further argues that the competitiveness of the freight intermodal system holds the potential to elevate economic performance, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance the well-being of the people of South Africa.

In the pursuit of knowledge, one invariably acquires a treasury of insights and lessons, for learning is the compass that guides a thoughtful journey. Which is why then, when asked about this path, Dr Sandra renders a comprehensive account, stating thus: “My journey in the development of this thesis can best be described in terms of a cycle of discovery, learning and oscillating confidence. My research aim was always clear in my mind, an issue that has intrigued and motivated me for years. I started slowly, building knowledge of systems thinking tools and methods. Throughout the journey, I conducted a documentary analysis and attended various transport forums to stay abreast of critical freight industry developments in South Africa and globally that could impact our system. Conducting interviews and focus groups was an enlightening and turning point in building momentum to analyse and communicate the findings. Bringing it all together to complete my final document was an intense period of highly focussed work and before I knew it, I found myself anxiously waiting for external examiner results. The contribution of examiner and oral defence panellist views provided further insights for refinement of my final document. I had to learn to trust the process and stick to it, which became enlightening as each new insight was revealed.”

Ever insightful and generous in thought, Dr Sandra states accordingly: “What started as a fascination with systems thinking approach became an ongoing quest to better understand the tools and principles of the discipline. I view systems thinking as an insightful way to view our complex and dynamic world from many transdisciplinary perspectives to develop multiple possible outcomes. The study has also compelled me to objectively question and re-evaluate my belief in the role of rail in advancing freight logistics practices such as intermodalism. Reading and ongoing discussions, with a growing network of peers, have helped me to make sense of trends and to seek possible options towards discovering original recommendations that would apply to the realities of the current South African context. At the same time, I have been encouraged by the resilience and collective efforts of South Africans in times of adversity. My academic journey has also heightened my awareness of the consequential and interconnected nature of everything and the lasting impact of current interventions on sustainability for future generations. We all need to think deeply about the impact of our actions and behaviours on others. I remain committed to contributing to the future of South Africa in any small way that I may be able to, and to share what I have learned with others so that together we may develop new and innovative behaviours, competencies and practices.”

Speaking of making a meaningful contribution in South Africa and her willingness to impart knowledge acquired, upon the completion of her studies, Dr Sandra informs DaVinci of having accepted the challenge of taking up an offered position in government as a transport specialist where she hopes to contribute towards national goals for the logistics industry.

“I hope to continue to present occasional lectures and presentations in the transport discipline, and to hone my skills in writing to enable publication of my views. I would also like to support bright young South Africans in their academic and career efforts. There is much talent, and it must be encouraged and nurtured in the interest of our country”, remarks Dr Sandra.

To those venturing into the academic journey, Dr Sandra imparts the following pearls of wisdom: “Build a deep appreciation for your research philosophy – it guides the whole research journey of discovery. Keep working at it a little every day to build insights and clarity. Build relationships with peers, your librarian and, of course, with your supervisor.”

Dr Mark Fuller is known within The DaVinci Institute stable as a lecturer – in fact, over the years, Dr Fuller has facilitated many a class, and has supervised countless students – something he continues to do with aplomb to this day.

Many a student and alumni hail Dr Mark Fuller as being agile in his classes, allowing an engaging atmosphere which has only made their learning experience a much more meaningful educational affair.

Now, Dr Fuller does not come to this point without a background, as he shares a comprehensive overview of his career to date: “I have over 30 years of experience in business, project management, and consulting, developing critical thinking and strategies in the sales, manufacturing, and operations environments across various industries at both executive levels and on the shop floor. I have also held executive positions in businesses such as Radiant Lighting, Afrox Hospitality, and Swartland. Furthermore, I have developed over 30 programmes and facilitated over 850 workshops and seminars, both locally and internationally. Additionally, I have lectured and developed programmes for The DaVinci Institute, Tswane University, and Wits Business School.”

Beyond the lecture room, lately Dr Fuller has been curious in his explorations about how employees can empower themselves, and, this formed the basis of his thesis entitled: “Developing a Self-Empowerment Conceptual Framework to Enhance Alignment, Engagement, and Agility Using Quantum Skills.”

Fittingly, and in developing his study, Dr Fuller accords: “Consulting for businesses on operations and strategy has led to many discussions on why employees at all levels often feel that they cannot contribute positively to their businesses. The inability to make these decisions seems to be due to their perception that they cannot empower themselves. Employees believe that only those with greater authority can bestow empowerment.”

Thus, Dr Fuller’s thesis, he adds, “provides employees with a structured path to cultivate a positive mindset and purpose through quantum thinking, leading to enhanced individual and organisational performance. Moreover, the framework’s adoption can create a ripple effect, positively influencing colleagues throughout the organisation and ultimately improving company performance and profitability.”

The culmination of this research presented its own set of formidable challenges, yet Dr Fuller attributes his unwavering resilience, adept networking skills, and his knack for alleviating stress through light-hearted humour for its successful completion, as this journey fostered insatiable curiosity.

“The journey was long, stressful, and frustrating at times, but more importantly, it was really interesting and fun. So much was learned, and current thinking and perceptions were regularly challenged”, concedes Dr Fuller.

The recent graduation ceremony carried a poignant significance, as Dr Fuller, not only marking his own academic achievements, but also sharing this milestone with some of the students he had guided and mentored. Many of them had walked the educational path he had facilitated through lectures or even supervised. In carving out his own domain of expertise with his doctoral qualification, he selflessly brought others along on their learning journeys. This remarkable gesture, in the name of all that is commendable, deserves its own special recognition.

When asked about what will constitute the next chapter of his journey, Dr Fuller admits to currently seeking opportunities to test the framework (thesis study) in various businesses. When offering advice to a student embarking on this journey, Dr Fuller, in his dual role as a lecturer and industry expert, emphasises the importance of perseverance and suggests incorporating enjoyment into one’s plans.

In his trademark characteristic, Dr Mark Fuller quips, “It is very helpful printing a schedule and putting it on the fridge.”

Raymond Toga, doctoral candidate and Programme Convener at The DaVinci Institute, has remained finely attuned to the profound symphony of both his professional and academic journey; as a testament to his unwavering commitment, he has recently culminated his vigorous doctoral studies and is set to don the apex qualification’s regalia later this month. With great enthusiasm, we extend our glee in presenting his narrative, encapsulating the challenges and invaluable wisdom garnered along this academic quest…

A Career Rooted in Inclusive Education and Dynamic Transformation

When queried about his professional trajectory, in his own words, Raymond Toga considers it “a young, continuously fulfilling and dynamic career in the field of education, driven by my unwavering passion for its transformative power.” Raymond further provides a comprehensive account: “My career has been characterised by a student-centred and collaborative approach, with a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment where all individuals are valued and respected. My journey in education began as an academic tutor and research assistant at the University of Fort Hare from 2009 to 2010, during which I also pursued and earned my Master of Commerce in Industrial Psychology. After graduating, I transitioned into private higher education, where I lectured on various commerce modules. Subsequently, I joined Damelin as an Academic Manager, where I held responsibilities encompassing the effective management of campus operations, ensuring a conducive learning and training environment, and cultivating client relationships to achieve customer satisfaction … My journey in education continued to evolve as I became part of The DaVinci Institute team. Over the years, I held various roles in the research office and learning operations, contributing to the institution’s educational mission. I am privileged to support doctoral students in their postgraduate journey in my current role. This task resonates deeply with me as I have personally experienced the challenges and triumphs of this path.”

Challenges and Solutions: Raymond’s Exploration of Challenges Facing Private Higher Education Institutions

An individual with an unquenchable curiosity for knowledge and an unwavering dedication, it is hardly astonishing that Raymond has been deeply engrossed in his academic endeavours in recent times. Engaging in his academic pursuits, he has navigated moments of memory-making, deep introspection, and a sense of eager anticipation for the future. Consequently, Raymond has embarked on a profound journey of self-exploration and personal development through his doctoral qualification – Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation – of which the thesis is entitled: “Private Higher Education Institutions and the New World of Work: A Strategic Framework for Resilient and Agile Business Management”.

In his study, Raymond recognises that Higher Education (HE) and modern commercial enterprises are both experiencing substantial changes due to a range of disruptions, including technological advancements, socio-political shifts, climate change, and economic fluctuations. These disruptions, as Raymond purports, bring about uncertainties, complexity, and the necessity to adapt to evolving environments. Similarly, Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs), much like businesses in general, confront a variety of such disruptions in their operational landscape.

Thus, his research seeks to explore challenges facing PHEIs in today’s rapidly changing business environment, and further aims to gain a deeper understanding of the strategies and practices employed by PHEIs to manage their businesses and identify potential areas for improving their resilience and agility. The literature review highlights the current approaches and identifies gaps in the existing literature. It reveals that while some studies have examined disruptions in commercial enterprises, limited research focuses explicitly on PHEIs and their response to the changing business landscape, Raymond notes.

“This study’s main findings reveal PHEIs’ challenges in managing their businesses in a rapidly changing environment. Additionally, a Resilience and Agility-Building Framework (RABF) was developed based on insights from the lived experiences of the PHEI participants interviewed. This framework offers practical guidance for PHEIs seeking to enhance their resilience and agility in the face of disruptions. The conclusions drawn from this research emphasise the importance of adopting innovative business practices to promote agility and resilience in a disruptive environment. PHEIs must embrace digital technologies and tools to enhance their operations, acquire new skills and competencies, and embrace new working methods such as remote and flexible work arrangements. These findings have implications for PHEIs in navigating disruptions and thriving in the rapidly changing business landscape. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing knowledge by providing insights into the challenges faced by PHEIs and offering practical recommendations for improving their resilience and agility. The research underscores the significance of innovation, adaptability, and leveraging opportunities presented by the 4IR/5IR revolutions for businesses to succeed in the evolving landscape”, accords Raymond.

Unveiling the Attributes That Define a Successful Doctoral Journey

When queried regarding the personal traits that have facilitated their pursuit of knowledge, individuals emerging from this educational odyssey tend to romanticise its wonders, yet Raymond chooses to provide a nuanced perspective, expressing in a thorough and all-encompassing manner thus: “Doing a doctorate requires a lot of hard work but also a lot of fun. It’s the beginning of an exciting journey that usually leads to new networks, friendships and opportunities. A successful doctoral journey is a challenging and rewarding experience that requires a combination of personal attributes and characteristics. These attributes helped me navigate the rigorous demands of my doctoral journey and immensely contributed to the overall success of this qualification.”

Concurrently: “Throughout my doctoral journey, a deep passion for my research topic and a strong motivation to make a meaningful contribution to the field were vital. The journey was long and demanding, and this genuine interest in my research topic kept me focused and committed. Perseverance was crucial as doctoral studies can be mentally and emotionally taxing, with setbacks being common at every step of this remarkable journey. Resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, was essential to cope with the inherent stress, criticism, and rejection in the research and academic environment. Self-discipline played a significant role in managing the self-directed research and study involved in this journey. It required me to manage my time diligently, set goals, and stay disciplined to make progress. My strong sense of curiosity and a desire to explore new ideas and questions were also vital.”

Raymond emphasises the paramount importance of critical thinking in the realm of top-tier research. His journey demanded an adept skill in critical analysis, tackling intricate problems, and assessing existing literature. Diligence and conscientiousness were non-negotiable attributes; effective communication, whether in the written word or through spoken discourse, stood as the linchpin for conveying his research discoveries and ideas. Juggling a vast array of data, literature, and research materials was a doctoral imperative, and his adept organisational skills ensured he never missed a beat. Alongside these, according to Raymond, a keen grasp of emotional intelligence became pivotal in fostering effective teamwork, resolving conflicts, and safeguarding personal well-being.

Raymond’s Journey Beyond the Thesis, Embracing the Future with Enthusiasm

It was a path, as Raymond realises, that has been “filled with abundant lessons, tears, moments of courage, and doubt. It is an affirmation of my capabilities and strength. Despite encountering various arduous trials throughout my journey, I am grateful for the divine grace that enabled me to conclude this research successfully. I always remembered that it is persistence that propels progress forward.”

Peering into the future, Raymond’s remarkable voyage persists – he discerns and adds to his narrative the anticipation of globetrotting, cherishing precious moments with his significant other, companions, and kin, all while concentrating on self-improvement. This pursuit encompasses the establishment and attainment of personal objectives and the nurturing of novel proficiencies.

“I am enthusiastic about the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of education. I am confident that I can continue to make significant contributions to the field. My doctoral journey, which has unfolded in recent years, stands as one of the most memorable and enjoyable chapters in my professional life, further fuelling my commitment to education.”