Category: DaVinci Students

How a DaVinci Student Innovates Banking
Between deadlines, meetings, and personal commitments, professionals today are expected to juggle multiple responsibilities while still striving for career growth. The challenge? Staying ahead in an ever-changing world without losing sight of what matters most.
For Nthabiseng Mashiane, a seasoned banking professional with 14 years of experience, this meant embracing change, not just reacting to it. As digital transformation reshaped the financial industry, she knew she had to upskill to remain relevant—and lead the charge. That’s what led her to The DaVinci Institute’s Master of Management in Technology and Innovation programme in 2021.
“Technology is revolutionising banking at an unprecedented pace,” she reflects. “I wanted to equip myself with the skills to not only keep up but to drive meaningful change.”
The DaVinci Difference: A Transformative Learning Experience
For Nthabiseng, The DaVinci Institute was the perfect fit. The institution’s focus on management, technology, and innovation aligned seamlessly with her professional aspirations. However, her academic journey was not just about acquiring knowledge—it became an experience of transformation.
“The programme has challenged my thinking, refined my problem-solving abilities, and deepened my understanding of innovation management,” she says. “Applying these learnings in my work has reinforced the impact of continuous improvement and strategic agility.”
Balancing work, studies, and personal commitments was no easy feat. Yet, she remained focused, drawing strength from her support system—her family, her partner, her sister, and her children. Their unwavering encouragement became a source of motivation.
“I reminded myself why I started this journey. Keeping my long-term goals in mind, embracing continuous learning, and viewing setbacks as lessons rather than failures helped me stay the course,” she shares. “And celebrating small wins along the way made all the difference.”
Innovation in Banking: A Mindset, Not Just Technology
With her extensive experience in banking, Nthabiseng understands that innovation is not just about adopting the latest technology—it’s about rethinking traditional practices and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
“My experience has taught me the importance of efficiency, customer-centricity, and risk management,” she explains. “At DaVinci, I’ve learned how to integrate these principles with emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and automation. This has enabled me to bridge the gap between traditional banking practices and the digital future.”
The knowledge she’s gained has positioned her as a changemaker in the banking industry, equipping her with the tools to drive innovation, implement digital solutions, and enhance customer experiences while ensuring compliance and stability.
Leadership, Strategy, and the Future
One of the most valuable skills Nthabiseng has gained at The DaVinci Institute is strategic problem-solving—the ability to assess complex challenges, develop innovative solutions, and implement meaningful change.
“This skill has allowed me to lead process improvements and contribute to digital transformation initiatives within the banking sector,” she says. “It has also strengthened my leadership and decision-making abilities, preparing me for future strategic roles.”
Looking ahead, she envisions herself playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of banking, leading digital transformation efforts that optimise processes and enhance customer experiences.
“My goal is to be at the forefront of change, ensuring that financial services evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly shifting digital landscape.”
Advice for Aspiring Innovators
For professionals considering further studies in technology and innovation, Nthabiseng offers a piece of heartfelt advice:
“If you’re passionate about staying ahead in a technology-driven world, further studies in this field are invaluable. Embrace the learning journey with an open mind and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking. Industries are evolving rapidly, and those who invest in continuous learning will be better equipped to lead change.”
She adds, “Find a programme that offers practical application, industry relevance, and opportunities for collaboration. Most importantly, believe in yourself. I kept reminding myself that ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’—and indeed, I managed to accomplish my goal.”
Inspiration
Nthabiseng’s journey is more than just a story of academic achievement—it’s an inspiration for professionals looking to evolve, adapt, and lead in an ever-changing world. Her experience at The DaVinci Institute has not only empowered her but positioned her as a catalyst for innovation in the financial sector.
For those considering their next academic step, her story serves as a reminder that learning is a lifelong journey—one that opens doors to new opportunities, new perspectives, and new possibilities.
Are you ready to shape the future of your industry? Explore The DaVinci Institute and take the first step towards your own transformation.
March 17, 2025
Meet the DaVinci Student Revolutionising Digital Transformation
With over 14 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and a strong background in Information Technology, Omalli Jani is no stranger to digital transformation. His passion for driving technological advancement in Southern Africa’s energy sector led him to pursue a Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation at The DaVinci Institute. For Omalli, this journey is more than academic—it’s about influencing policy and pioneering change in an industry hesitant to embrace digital solutions.
A Phenomenal Learning Experience
Omalli describes his time at The DaVinci Institute as nothing short of transformative. “The experience has been phenomenal and valuable,” he shares. “Engaging with like-minded professionals has helped me grow both personally and professionally.” The practical nature of his studies allows him to immediately apply his learnings at JB Garageforecourt, where he plays a key role in business development and innovation. His evolving management style, shaped by his studies, has contributed to the company’s continued success.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
JB Garageforecourt’s story is one of resilience and vision. What started from the trunk of a car has grown into one of the continent’s most recognised tank and pump contractors. A pivotal moment in the company’s journey was its partnership with Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS). “We started as a sub-distributor in 2014 and became a main distributor in 2017,” Omalli explains. “This partnership has allowed us to leverage DFS’s research and development, keeping us ahead in digital transformation.”
Breaking Barriers with 3D Laser Calibration
Digital transformation in the oil and gas sector is not without its challenges. The introduction of 3D laser calibration technology faced resistance, as many industry players were reluctant to move away from traditional methods. However, Omalli and his team persevered, proving the immense benefits of this technology. “We’ve seen improved accuracy, reduced calibration time, and increased profitability,” he says, highlighting how innovation drives efficiency.
Balancing Innovation and Community Development
Beyond technological advancements, Omalli is committed to bridging the digital divide. JB Garageforecourt has undertaken Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, such as donating computers to rural schools. Additionally, their digital transformation solutions have created employment opportunities for IT-based technicians. “This aligns with our mission to be the leading technological company in the oil and gas sector in Southern Africa,” Omalli states proudly.
Staying Ahead in a Rapidly Evolving Industry
As a Digital Transformation Specialist Manager, Omalli ensures that JB Garageforecourt remains at the forefront of innovation. “Our alliance with global partners who invest in research and development keeps us ahead of market demands,” he explains. Looking ahead, he envisions technology playing an even greater role in improving efficiency and profitability within the industry, while also generating new job opportunities.
Shaping the Future of Digital Transformation
Omalli’s academic journey at The DaVinci Institute is equipping him with the tools to tackle industry challenges and contribute to policy-making. “My studies help me stay up to speed with technological advancements, giving me a voice in shaping the future of the oil and gas sector,” he shares.
From humble beginnings to driving industry-wide transformation, Omalli Jani’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. His story serves as an inspiration to future leaders looking to make a lasting impact in their fields.
March 6, 2025
From Student to Innovator: A DaVinci Institute Success Story
Some careers are built on experience – others on an unwavering drive to innovate. For Lebone Mashigo, marketing has always been about more than just selling a brand; it is about shaping its future. His academic journey with The DaVinci Institute began in 2014, marking the start of a transformative experience that redefined his career. From working as a front desk agent to becoming a Marketing Manager, his story is a testament to the power of lifelong learning, determination, and fearless ambition. His rise from student to industry leader proves that with the right education and mindset, anything is possible.
A Transformative Academic Journey
Lebone’s academic journey with The DaVinci Institute began in 2014, and he describes it as a transformative experience that has profoundly shaped his career. “The academic journey has always reminded me of the importance of being ahead of innovation so that organisations can attract and retain customers. Thus, I always apply the TIPS model to map out strategic approaches in my role,” he shares. Now pursuing his Master of Management in Technology and Innovation, he continues to refine his leadership style and strengthen his strategic decision-making abilities. “The programme has helped me gain more confidence in my leadership, and I am furthering my understanding of the type of leader I am,” he explains.
Driving Marketing Success in Broadcast Media
As a Marketing Manager, Lebone believes that success in the broadcast media industry hinges on innovative thinking and strong decision-making skills. His expertise spans operations, creative briefs, systems management, and business strategy—elements that are all interconnected in his role. “A good marketing campaign starts with a strong brief. Understanding the holistic business strategy allows me to tailor briefs that align with organisational goals,” he notes. However, he acknowledges that the industry’s fast-paced nature presents challenges, especially with meeting tight deadlines.
Passion for Education and Mentorship
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Lebone is deeply invested in education and mentorship. Assisting Higher Certificate students at The DaVinci Institute is a role he finds particularly rewarding. “I am passionate about education and the transformation of our people. I remember walking into DaVinci in 2014 and being reminded of the importance of curiosity. Now, sharing my experiences and knowledge with students and seeing them grow is truly fulfilling,” he says.
Looking to the Future
Looking ahead, Lebone is eager to complete his Master’s degree and is currently researching a topic that aligns with his professional interests. When asked about his advice for aspiring professionals in marketing, technology, and innovation, he emphasises the importance of perseverance. “Persistency and perseverance are the keys to any career,” he affirms.
With a solid foundation in strategic marketing and a forward-thinking approach to innovation, Lebone is undoubtedly a professional to watch in the evolving landscape of broadcast media and beyond.
March 5, 2025
DaVinci Institute’s Student Shines in Work-Based Challenge
Work-based challenges play a crucial role in professional development, helping students transition from theoretical learning to real-world problem-solving. According to a study by Kawana Johnson at Florida State University, experiential learning enhances problem-solving skills, adaptability, and workplace readiness. At The DaVinci Institute, we take pride in students who excel in these challenges. And one such standout is Ziphozakhe Tshambo, a Higher Certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation student. His success in a Work-Based Challenge at Axalta Plascon (Pty) Ltd showcases innovation and leadership in improving project management processes.
A Challenge Rooted in Improvement
When asked about the Work-Based Challenge he participated in, Ziphozakhe explained that his focus was on auditing project management processes to identify opportunities for improvement.
“My work-based challenge involved auditing our project management processes to discern if there were any opportunities to improve our approach to managing projects using the things I had learned from The DaVinci Institute,” he shared. “I had conducted interviews with various employees who had been a part of projects to gather information and reached my goal of identifying opportunities to improve and provide potential solutions for those issues so that we improve our potential of successfully reaching intended goals and deliverables of a project.”
His meticulous approach to gathering insights from employees and applying his academic learning enabled him to offer valuable recommendations that could enhance the effectiveness of project management at Axalta Plascon.
The Rewarding Aspects of the Challenge
Reflecting on his experience, Ziphozakhe highlighted the most exciting and rewarding parts of the challenge:
“Learning the different kinds of projects that have been done by the company and also being able to communicate with those who have been at the company for a while and gain insight from them,” he said. “Learning more about the current process for project management and being able to see some of the documentation that forms part of that process.”
Through these interactions, he was able to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, further reinforcing the value of experiential learning.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
While the experience was rewarding, Ziphozakhe also faced significant challenges. One of the biggest was formulating a meaningful solution that would not simply highlight problems but provide opportunities for growth.
“I did not want the presentation to be a negative report designed to simply poke holes. I wanted it to be a presentation that presented an opportunity for improvement so that we can gain more value from the current processes in place for managing projects,” he explained.
As a trainee with limited experience, coming up with a viable solution was a daunting task. However, he found support in his coursework at The DaVinci Institute.
“Reviewing my learning outcomes from the course I did at DaVinci assisted me. It was exciting to reflect on some of the valuable fundamental concepts I had learned from this course and seeing if they could be incorporated into the solution I presented.”
Growth, Learning, and a New Perspective
This challenge not only tested Ziphozakhe’s problem-solving skills but also shaped his professional outlook.
“The challenge helped me to see the importance of organisation. It helped me see why an organised and documented approach to solving issues or managing projects is necessary to make good progress,” he said. “Challenges vary in size and sometimes you can get away with solving problems without much of an organised approach, but that only works for so long. It helps to have a tried and tested plan.”
This experience has reinforced the necessity of structured problem-solving, a skill he will undoubtedly carry forward in his career.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
Ziphozakhe’s passion for project management has only grown stronger through this experience, and he is eager to build on this foundation.
“I enjoyed learning about project management, and I would like to learn more and actually see the concepts I learned applied in real-life project management,” he said. “So now that I am in IT, I would love to shadow and monitor the management of a project by an experienced project manager so that I can learn more practically how these concepts can be applied and how they contribute to the progress and success of a project.”
He is already taking proactive steps towards this goal by coordinating a project within his company and incorporating what he has learned.
A Bright Future Ahead
Ziphozakhe Tshambo’s success in his Work-Based Challenge exemplifies the impact of The DaVinci Institute’s approach to learning—one that integrates academic theory with practical application to drive real change in businesses. His commitment to continuous learning and improvement is an inspiration to his peers and a testament to the transformative power of education.
As he continues his journey in project management, we look forward to witnessing his future achievements and contributions to the industry.
February 27, 2025
Dreams Delayed, Not Denied: A DaVincian’s Story of Determination
In South Africa, the path from high school to higher education is filled with financial hurdles. According to Statistics South Africa, approximately 51% of youth aged 18-24 cite financial constraints as the primary reason for not attending university (Stats SA, 2021). For many, the dream of obtaining a degree remains just that—a dream.
Siyabonga Mbexeshi is a testament to perseverance and determination. After completing matric in 1997, he and his three siblings were unable to pursue tertiary education due to financial constraints. Instead, Siyabonga entered the workforce, but two decades later, he seized the opportunity to enrol in a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management at The DaVinci Institute while working full-time at a leading South African retail bank.
“What kept me going was the desire to be the first in my family to earn a degree,” Siyabonga shares. “I wanted to inspire my family and show them that ‘it is possible’ even after 40 years.”
Balancing Work, Studies, and Family Life
Balancing work, academics, and family life has been challenging. His evenings are spent attending virtual classes, often sacrificing family time. However, his commitment to setting a positive example for his children and honouring his mother’s unwavering support keeps him motivated.
The Transformative Power of Education
Siyabonga’s academic journey has profoundly shaped his personal and professional life. “I am no longer the naive person I used to be. My critical thinking and problem-solving skills have significantly improved,” he reflects. At work, these enhanced abilities have strengthened team dynamics and decision-making processes.
Beyond the corporate world, his education has empowered him to make a difference in his community. His proactive engagement in local meetings led to his election as treasurer of the leadership team, where he applies strategic thinking to address societal challenges.
How The DaVinci Institute Makes a Difference
The DaVinci Institute played a crucial role in Siyabonga’s success. Unlike traditional universities, The DaVinci Institute embraces a Mode 2 learning approach, emphasizing real-world problem-solving, collaboration, and work-based learning. Through its unique TIPS™ Framework—Technology, Innovation, People, and Systems—the institution equips students with the skills to navigate complex challenges in both professional and societal settings.
Siyabonga’s story is one of resilience, proving that with determination and the right support, higher education is attainable at any stage of life. His journey serves as an inspiration to those facing similar challenges, demonstrating that breaking barriers is possible with the right mindset and resources.
February 24, 2025
DaVinci Doctoral Student Publishes Groundbreaking Study on Big Data & Risk in SA’s Insurance Sector!
For many students, publishing an academic paper is a dream that often feels out of reach. But for DaVinci doctoral student Vuledzani Dangale, a financial services professional and thought leader, it became a reality through dedication, resilience, and a passion for research. She recently published a groundbreaking paper titled Conceptual Framework on the Use of Big Data to Manage Risks in the South African Insurance Sector: The Case for Further Study. This literature-based study explores how organisations integrate big data into their strategic decisions, identifying critical gaps and proposing a framework to guide future research.
Her paper was presented at the 2024 International Multidisciplinary Information Technology and Engineering Conference (IMITEC), a milestone achievement that underscores the relevance of her work. “The inspiration for this study comes from the increasing recognition that while big data has the potential to enhance strategic decision-making, many organisations struggle with its effective implementation,” she explains. By delving into existing literature, she highlights key challenges such as data governance, ethical considerations, and organisational culture—areas that require further empirical research.
The Road to Publication: A Journey of Persistence
From conceptualisation to publication, the research journey took approximately 18 months. This period involved an extensive literature review to map existing theories and frameworks, laying the groundwork for the next phase of her study. But like any ambitious endeavour, the process was not without its challenges.
“One of the major challenges was synthesising a vast body of literature to identify critical themes and research gaps while ensuring the conceptual framework was both academically rigorous and practically relevant,” Vuledzani reflects. Beyond the academic hurdles, she also had to balance multiple responsibilities, including work, family life, and her literary pursuits.
Yet, the journey was equally rewarding. A key insight from her research was discovering the wide variation in organisational data maturity—some companies have well-developed data ecosystems, while others struggle with basic data governance structures. This realisation reinforced the need for further qualitative research to better understand how different organisations navigate these challenges.
Making an Impact: Research with Real-World Relevance
Vuledzani’s study serves as a stepping stone for future research, providing a structured framework to identify knowledge gaps in big data-driven decision-making. Her next step? Conducting qualitative data collection to validate and refine her framework, ensuring it holds practical value for industry leaders.
“I am particularly interested in engaging with industry leaders in risk management, governance, compliance, and decision-making to gather insights on how big data is currently utilised in strategic decision-making,” she shares. Through her work, she aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practice, offering organisations valuable insights on leveraging big data for strategic advantage.
More Than an Academic: A Passion for Knowledge and Advocacy
Beyond her academic contributions, Vuledzani is a multifaceted professional with a passion for education, governance research, financial services innovation, and mental health advocacy. With over 20 years of experience in financial services, she has dedicated her career to simplifying complex problems and driving impactful solutions.
She is also a published author of three books, including Mashudu’s Magical Super Powers, a children’s book available in nine languages. Her work extends to mental health advocacy, particularly in children and corporate environments. “Through my books and initiatives, I aim to raise awareness about mental health, especially among children, parents, and professionals navigating high-pressure environments,” she says.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Vuledzani’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, passion, and intellectual curiosity. For students who dream of publishing their own research, she serves as an inspiration. Her ability to juggle academic pursuits, a demanding career, and advocacy work proves that with discipline and determination, it is possible to make a meaningful impact in multiple spheres.
As she continues her research and professional journey, one thing is clear—Vuledzani Dangale is not just breaking barriers; she is paving the way for others to follow. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation at The DaVinci Institute.
February 14, 2025