Did you know Mode 2 learning encourages students to challenge traditional academic boundaries and solve real-world problems as part of their studies? That’s what drew Thomas Van Niekerk to The DaVinci Institute, a place where theory meets practice, and knowledge is immediately applied. Thomas graduated in 2017 with a BCom in Operational Risk Management. Today, he serves as National Training Manager at IRCA Group, a role he’s held for over a year and a half, helping shape safer workplaces across the globe.
Inside the World of IRCA Group
Founded in 1993, IRCA operates under a clear philosophy: assess, advise, assist. “We help organisations understand where they are in their risk management journey, then guide and support them in improving it,” Thomas explains. With offices in Brazil, Australia, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia, their reach is international. But their impact is personal. “Our focus is people. You can raise awareness, but if behaviour doesn’t change, you still have a problem.”
Why DaVinci Was the Right Fit
Asked if DaVinci prepared him for his current role, Thomas Van Niekerk answers without hesitation: “Yes. At traditional universities, you’re confined to set textbooks. At DaVinci, you get to explore, research, and apply real-time knowledge. You’re never boxed in, that’s a big advantage.”
Thomas believes DaVinci saw the future long before it became mainstream. “AI is now a buzzword, but DaVinci has always focused on critical thinking and application. Back then, we used Moodle, and academic integrity was key. You had to show your own understanding – there were no shortcuts.”
TIPS That Make a Difference
One of the most powerful tools he used at DaVinci was the TIPS Framework™. “It’s structured in a way that helps you think through problems, plan your approach, and reflect on outcomes. It helped me approach challenges with confidence.”
Thomas Van Niekerk didn’t just study, he shaped his learning around his interests. “My focus has always been operational risk and safety, how we keep people alive at work. The electives helped me drill into that, while the core subjects like economics and stats prepared me for the leadership side.”
A Message to DaVinci at 20
His final word is one of heartfelt congratulations: “A huge congratulations to DaVinci. The number of students they’ve taken through their programmes, and what those students have achieved – is remarkable. Their success speaks volumes. I believe their next 20 years will be even more impactful.”
Dr Goni Saar, what was the most significant challenge that you faced during your doctorate at The DaVinci Institute? And how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced was identifying a research topic. At DaVinci, you do not get assigned a supervisor upfront; instead, you receive one after your proposal is accepted and approved. This was my biggest hurdle. I explored various options extensively, and it took me about a year to formalise and finalise my proposal, as far as I recall.
In a few words, how can you describe your journey to computing for quantification?
My journey was interesting because I live in Zambia and I needed to find out the most interesting thing because Zambia I was not studying that much and also I’m coming from the cyber security domain so I just kind of combined everything all together into one topic and then I need to engage this business sector of Zambia explaining the importance of that.
Discussed with the employees themselves, and this is my journey. Eventually, I started small with interviews, this was my methodology, just interviews, and then I found out how much interest and benefit there is in this research, so I expanded it even more, and I needed to expand my research to contain a lot of guidance from official agencies of the United States and Europe, and then also on top of that, and top of the interviews, I needed to add the legal framework of Zambia.
So now every business that uses that in Zambia has a whole framework for it to comply with the Zambian law and to increase their cybersecurity and cyber awareness
And this is just for me, this is the first stage. I am already talking to the government and businesses about how to implement that in the businesses, how to officially help the businesses in Zambia to implement that, and to secure the Zambian economy, which is struggling a lot.
The DaVinci Institute’s TIPS™ Framework, do you find it helpful?
I come from a background of policing. I was a police officer for a lot of years, many years. And during this policing career, I studied for my bachelor’s degree and my master’s. And then I moved to the private sector. I am doing cybersecurity for governments mostly.
I had a lot of subordinates under me, hundreds. So DaVinci TIPS™ is unique. I did a lot of it without knowing the framework itself, but of course, I adopted things from that to my journey and my career forward.
Dr Goni Saar, what advice would you give to someone, or an upcoming doctoral candidate, who is thinking, Should I do it?
You must have the passion to study, because otherwise it takes a lot of time. You need to sacrifice a lot of your time, family time. You need to think big and not just do it. You need to be extremely interested in that and make an impact. There are things that will make an impact on society.
What if the answer to employee retention? The high employee turnover continues to waste company resources, create stagnation, and hinder growth.
An undergraduate student of DaVinci set out to solve this problem uniquely and built on the concept of high-performance culture to address the workplace performance “gaps.” They provided a compelling academic argument as well as business measurable value.
The Challenge
Most businesses are familiar with the retention problem. In certain ecosystems, staff turnover was abnormally high, there was perpetual onboarding, and output was minimal. One organisation, for example, spent approximately R26,000 on replacement and training for every existing employee.
The student noted that this problem underwent a culture shift that needed to promote accountability, engagement, and leadership at all organisational tiers to enhance retention rates.
The Solution
Based on external existing concepts of leadership and high performance, the student created and proposed a comprehensive guide for the development of high-performing employees. It involved redefining performance indicators, enhancement of feedback loops, and cascading leadership development programmes to all teams.
What was more powerful about the research was that it was anchored with business priorities.
The Impact Of Employee Retention
In the first half of the year after the implementation of changes, the company was able to improve their employee retention by 25%, which impacted churn and costs significantly. The company was saving R26,000 with every additional employee retained, which meant they were poised to save hundreds of thousands of rands every year.
Their effects were not just monetary however. Socially, the changes brought about marked improvements in the employees’ self-esteem and ability to lead and build a strong foundational workforce that the organisation was looking for. This social return on investment, or SROI, added even more value to the already financially beneficial project.
Personal Transformation
Apart from the changes to the business, the student reported enhanced self-esteem, leadership, and problem solving abilities, along with improved communication. Coupled with the ability to encounter real life business hurdles using academic strategies, this marked a turning point in the individual’s life.
Conclusion
The story serves as an example of the effects that targeted student research can have when they are paired with business needs. Not only is the research beneficial from a social and financial perspective, but it provides incredible outcomes when the students are thoughtfully guided and collaborated with businesses.
Dr Skhumbuzo Clement Mtetwa,please give us a brief overview of your career to date and whether the studies will be able to assist in terms of the development of your career or bring solutions to what you are seeking to achieve?
After my primary and secondary education. I pursued a diploma in Information Technology at the Bahá’í University of Technology. My academic journey continued as I obtained an MBA from MANCOSA and participated in several executive programs at the University of Pretoria and GIBS.
These educational experiences have significantly shaped my professional path, particularly in my collaborations with scientists and technology professionals. I am deeply passionate about empowering young people, especially those from rural backgrounds to access quality education. Education is the key to transforming lives.
As I embark on my PhD journey, I am committed to leveraging my knowledge and experiences to give back to my community. My goal is to inspire and support the next generation, ensuring that young individuals can pursue their studies and improve their circumstances.
What is the most significant challenge you have faced during your doctoral journey at The DaVinci Institute and how did you overcome it?
One of the most significant challenges I faced was achieving a work-life balance. This task can be particularly demanding, especially for someone who is a family person and a husband. Balancing work responsibilities, parenting, and academic pursuits can be exceedingly difficult. Initially, I struggled to adjust and find balance in my life.
However, a conversation with a friend proved enlightening. He advised me that even dedicating just one page a day to my studies would be sufficient. Inspired by this advice, I began waking up each day at 2:00 am and dedicating the two hours from 2:00 am to 4:00 am to my academic work. By committing to this routine, I realised that focusing on just one page a day could enable me to complete my PhD within three to four years. This approach not only made my goals more manageable but also instilled a sense of accomplishment in my daily life.
Dr Skhumbuzo Mtetwa, how did your journey impact the way you think as you were starting your PhD?
Well, it has changed a lot from just engaging with your peers. A simple thing is responding to a question in a meeting. People can tell that this guy has an incredibly good knowledge, your opinion matters, especially when you speak with empirical evidence, people can listen to you. You are also able to pay more attention to detail. You can be able to substantiate your answers with evidence. It changes the way you do things, the way you talk, and the way you address people.
It changes a lot, and the respect that you get from your peers as well, because when you are doing a PhD, it is no child’s play. Yes, of course. I mean, doing a PhD in management of technology and innovation,
One of the key frameworks there is TIPS™, because it is the management of technology. You are not only producing innovative ways, but you also need to understand how technology can be managed. My study was about the implementation of the different technologies in the higher education sector. Looking at the current challenges that the higher education sector is facing in terms of intake, and just to adopt these technologies, we have quite a bit of them. The TIPS™ framework must be implemented as part of the studies so that the management of technology is well taken care of, so that the students and the lecturers, going forward, including the institutions, can be able to implement these technologies.
Dr Skhumbuzo Mtetwa,what advice would you give to someone or incoming doctoral students who are embarking on this journey, based on the experience that you have gained from your studies?
I know studying for a PhD sounds like a big thing, or that now you must stop your life, focus on studying. No, you can still do everything else that you do while you are studying for a PhD. You just need to dedicate an hour per day to your studies. That is enough. You will be able to finish. So, you can still balance your life. You do not have to stop everything. Balance your life but just dedicate some time. Every day, just dedicate one hour to take the minutes, to read, to get in the journal, all that again. You will be able to accomplish your studies.
Few people embody versatility and purpose like Thuso Mojatau, a proud DaVinci alumna. She is a mother of two, wife, and Office Support Manager at FNB’s real estate division. She somehow finds time to host a radio show, manage large-scale events, and release spiritually-inspired music, all while earning her BCom in Project Management, a journey that culminated in her graduation on 29 May 2025.
Meet Thuso Mojatau: DaVinci Alumna and FNB Manager
We caught up with Thuso shortly after the graduation ceremony, and her enthusiasm was infectious.
“Honestly, I feel proud,” she said, pausing slightly as if taking it all in. “Project management has always been part of what I do, but this degree puts a name to the work I’ve been doing for years.”
Just weeks before graduating, she was deep in preparations for the Africa Rising music concert, a major event she managed from beginning to end. It’s this kind of juggling act that seems almost impossible on paper, but for Thuso, it’s simply her way of life.
“I live by my schedule,” she said with a chuckle. “I colour-code everything, plan out my days to the last detail. But here’s the thing, you must genuinely love what you’re doing. That’s what makes the balancing act possible.”
Between career, family, and creative projects, it’s clear she’s not just multitasking, she’s weaving together different parts of her life in a way that feels intentional and grounded.
The TIPS™ framework
One of the biggest tools that shaped her journey? The TIPS™ framework at DaVinci, short for Technology, Innovation, People and Systems Thinking.
“It really changed the way I see things,” she explained. “Whether I’m preparing for a radio show or working on a corporate presentation, I find myself thinking in systems. It’s not something I switch off when I leave campus. It’s with me all the time.”
Mode 2 Learning
Another game-changer was Mode 2 learning, a fresh concept for her, but one that quickly made sense.
“Before DaVinci, I’d never come across Mode 2. But it clicked fast. We were asked to write about real issues, things like the economic impact of COVID-19 or what’s happening in South Africa right now. That’s when learning becomes real.”
Her academic research, in fact, came straight from her heart. It explored how spirituality in the workplace can uplift morale and boost performance, something she believes companies should embrace more.
“My paper didn’t aim to solve a problem,” she said, thoughtfully. “It was more of an invitation to explore. What happens when employees have a space to step away, reflect, pray, or just breathe? Regardless of one’s belief system, that moment of spiritual reconnection can have a powerful impact on work culture,” said the DaVinci alumna.
As a recording artist in the Afro-house genre, though classically trained, Thuso says her music carries the same spirit as her research: joyful, rooted, and meaningful.
Encouragement From DaVinci Alumna to Students
But like most stories of success, hers isn’t without moments of doubt.
“In my first year, I had to repeat academic literacy,” she admitted. “I was embarrassed. I thought, maybe this isn’t for me. I nearly gave up. But something told me to keep going. And I’m glad I did.”
Her advice to others?
“Just stay. Even when it’s rough. Even when you feel alone. It takes time, but eventually, you start understanding what this learning model is about. Then it stops feeling hard and starts feeling alive.”
With her degree now in hand, Thuso Mojatau joins the growing number of DaVinci alumni who are not only excelling in their careers but living out their purpose, in full colour.
Mushtaq Alli, Head of Inventory and Logistics Operations at DSV, is a firm believer in the DaVinci Thinking. Since enrolling for his Higher Certificate in Leadership at the DaVinci Institute, he’s not only seen a shift in how he thinks, but also in how he operates both at work and at home.
“It does not make sense for you being in the class, learning and not being able to apply it in the workplace,” Mushtaq says. “So it goes hand in glove, what we learn here we apply in the workplace, and some of the things is that you even apply it unintentionally without you knowing that you are doing it because you’ve learned it in class.”
TIPS in Action at Work and Home
It’s been just six months since he joined DaVinci, but Mushtaq says his development has been “leaps and bounds”. He explains, “It just opens your mind up to a certain level of thinking, you no longer think of limitations, you think beyond that. That’s what DaVinci actually teaches you, it teaches you to think outside the box. And even removes the box, and there is no box. So your thinking is unlimited.”
Before DaVinci, TIPS was a foreign concept. Today, it’s part of how Mushtaq navigates life. “Before I came here I knew nothing about TIPS, but right now I can find TIPS in almost everything. From school to work,” he says.
DaVinci Thinking At Home
One of the most powerful moments comes from home, where he uses the TIPS framework to support his nine-year-old daughter’s learning. “Her curriculum at this level is very high, but I am able to instil TIPS principles when I teach her at home because I spend a lot of time with her. I feel it’s critical thinking, it’s mind boggling. And it’s a pity I only got to experience it at 40.”
As Mushtaq continues his DaVinci journey, his story is a reminder that leadership is not confined to the office. It starts with a mindset, stretches across every part of life and, with the right tools like TIPS, becomes a lifelong habit.
What does it take to stay ahead when the world of work is changing so fast? As the DaVinci Institute marks its 20th anniversary, we continue to be a place where many of South Africa’s top leaders have come to grow. With industries evolving and traditional roles shifting, more and more experienced professionals are choosing to return to the classroom, not just to keep up, but to lead the way forward.
One example is Dr. Ntombi Mhangwani‘s story. She studied for a doctorate at DaVinci Institute, with her thesis focusing on “Developing a leadership model for fundamental change in the fourth industrial revolution.” Her story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. As a Head of Marketing at Vodacom Business and an alumnus of the DaVinci Institute, she has inspired many with her journey.
Curiosity Sparked a Doctoral Journey
From her early days as a marketing director at Accenture to pursuing her Doctorate Of Philosophy In Management Of Technology and Innovation, her path has been marked by a passion for learning and growth. Driven by curiosity about the future, Dr Mhangwani began to reflect on whether her role would evolve or remain unchanged in the years ahead. Rather than wait for the answer, she chose to deepen her knowledge through further study. Her decision to pursue a doctorate was shaped by her experience at Accenture, where she had worked closely with the DaVinci Institute on innovation awards. That collaboration sparked a lasting interest in expanding her academic journey.
Dr Ntombi Mhangwani met Prof Ben Anderson, who introduced her to the DaVinci Institute’s unique approach to learning. At the time, it was the only institution offering master’s and doctoral programmes aligned with her academic aspirations. Today, the Institute’s TIPS™ framework continues to shape her professional journey.
Dr Ntombi Mhangwani, A Transformative Leader
Dr. Mhangwani’s experience at the DaVinci Institute was transformative. She credits the institute’s focus on real-world challenges and its cooperative framework for helping her develop a deeper understanding of complex technological concepts. Her education empowered her to engage meaningfully with executives and drive innovation professionally.
One key benefit of DaVinci Institute’s approach is its ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Dr. Mhangwani highlights the disparity between those well-versed in innovation and technology and those in corporate environments who may not fully grasp these concepts.
“The importance of applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations makes the DaVinci Institute’s approach particularly beneficial for experienced leaders,” stated Dr Mhangwani.
Equity Empowerment
As an equality champion, Dr. Mhangwani has been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She believes in the significance of sharing personal stories to inspire others and the need for diverse voices in organisations. She believes women must avail themselves and be at the forefront and lead in their respective fields of interest. Dr. Mhangwani remains committed to empowering more women to actively participate and drive meaningful change across industries.
Advice to Struggling Students
For students struggling to balance studies with personal responsibilities, she offered valuable advice on establishing a routine, managing expectations with family, and focusing on goals.
She encourages students to embrace challenges as part of their growth and believes that success is achievable regardless of past academic performance.
Dr. Mhangwani stated that if you feel like it is just too hard to focus and complete your studies as a woman, just know it is doable. Sooner or later, you will realise it was worth it after all.
“To make it work, I had to tell my friends and family that in the next four years, I will be focused on my studies. At the time, I was already a mother and a wife; there were times I felt like it was impossible to complete, but I kept going every day,” she stated.
When asked if she could do a doctorate, she stated that she will embark on the journey again if there is an opportunity and time.
Mode 2 Knowledge Production
The institute’s approach is particularly beneficial for experienced professionals like Dr Mhangwani, who can apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and drive innovation in their professional lives. The institute’s focus on real-world challenges and its cooperative framework makes it suitable for advanced degrees like a doctorate.
Dr. Mhangwani’s story inspires many, and her journey with the DaVinci Institute reminds us that with determination and the right support, anyone can achieve their goals and make a meaningful impact in their profession and community.
Graduation is not the end – it’s the beginning of something greater. At The DaVinci Institute, we believe that education is a lifelong journey. Our commitment to co-creating sustainable futures continues well beyond the classroom, and today, we are thrilled to mark a major milestone in that journey: the official launch of the Alumni Office.
This newly established space is more than just an administrative function – it is a vibrant hub dedicated to nurturing enduring relationships with our graduates. It reflects our belief that the power of the DaVinci experience doesn’t end with a qualification, it evolves, grows, and flourishes as our alumni go on to shape industries, influence change, and inspire new generations.
The Alumni Office is here to celebrate that journey, to connect past and present, and to amplify the impact of a growing network of professionals united by a shared DaVinci DNA.
A Space to Nurture Lifelong Relationships
The DaVinci Institute has always stood for more than just academic excellence. It is a place where visionaries are shaped, where leadership meets innovation, and where knowledge is applied for real-world impact. Our alumni carry the spirit of DaVinci wherever they go – in boardrooms, classrooms, start-ups, NGOs, and communities around the globe.
With the establishment of the Alumni Office, we are formalising and energising our commitment to walking alongside our graduates long after they leave the graduation stage. This office will act as the heart of alumni engagement, a place where former students can reconnect, share their journeys, and explore opportunities to continue growing with us.
Objectives of the Alumni Office
Mduduzi Biyela – Registry & Alumni Coordinator
The Alumni Office is more than just a department – it is a community catalyst. Its core objectives include:
Serving as a central hub for alumni engagement and communication
Celebrating alumni achievements through stories, events, and newsletters
Facilitating networking and professional development through dedicated forums and resources
Encouraging mentorship between alumni and current students, fostering a culture of support and knowledge transfer
Supporting innovation and collaboration, allowing alumni to contribute to DaVinci’s broader mission of co-creating sustainable futures
Our Alumni: A Powerful Network of Influence
Our alumni are not only representatives of The DaVinci Institute’s values – but they are also key players in shaping industries and communities. From leading multinational companies to launching social impact ventures, their work embodies the spirit of innovation, inclusivity, and impact-driven leadership that we champion at the Institute.
The creation of the Alumni Office offers a formal avenue for these trailblazers to connect with each other and with DaVinci — to share insights, to inspire, and to shape the next generation of thinkers and doers.
A Message from the Registry Office
Towera Gondwe, the Registrar of The DaVinci Institute, shared her thoughts on the significance of this development:
“Our alumni are the living embodiment of what The DaVinci Institute stands for, intellectual curiosity, innovation, and impact. The Alumni Office is a testament to our commitment to nurturing this community and ensuring that our relationship with graduates continues to grow beyond the classroom. We look forward to seeing how this space will ignite new collaborations, celebrate success stories, and create valuable mentorship opportunities that benefit both alumni and current students.”
Events and Engagements: What to Expect
We are excited to roll out a series of events and initiatives throughout the year, all tailored to bring alumni closer to each other and to the DaVinci community. These may include:
Alumni networking evenings and panel discussions featuring thought leaders and industry pioneers
Workshops and webinars to support continuous professional development
Mentorship programmes, connecting alumni with students for career guidance and knowledge exchange
Alumni spotlights shared through our newsletters and social platforms to showcase your stories and successes
Volunteering and collaboration opportunities, from guest lectures to project involvement and advisory roles
These engagements are designed not only to recognise the accomplishments of our graduates but also to create avenues for meaningful contribution and growth.
Why Get Involved?
Being part of the DaVinci alumni network comes with a host of benefits — both personal and professional. Here are just a few reasons why reconnecting through the Alumni Office matters:
1. Lifelong Learning
Alumni will gain access to curated learning resources, exclusive webinars, and professional development opportunities that keep them at the forefront of innovation.
2. Networking and Collaboration
Expand your professional network by connecting with peers from diverse industries and disciplines. Collaborate on projects, business ventures, or knowledge-sharing initiatives.
3. Mentorship and Giving Back
Play a transformative role in shaping future DaVinci graduates by sharing your experiences and mentoring current students. Your story can inspire and guide the leaders of tomorrow.
4. Mentorship and Giving Back
We’ll spotlight alumni achievements across our platforms — celebrating your journey while inspiring others within our community.
5. Community and Purpose
Rekindle the sense of purpose, belonging, and impact that brought you to DaVinci in the first place. Help us co-create a future that benefits not just individuals, but industries and society at large.
Co-Creating the Future – Together
The launch of the Alumni Office is not simply a milestone — it is an invitation. We invite all DaVinci alumni to reconnect, to reimagine their role in our shared journey, and to help co-create the future.
Whether you graduated last year or twenty years ago, your story is part of ours. And now, more than ever, we want to hear from you, walk with you, and celebrate what comes next.
Update your details, share your journey, and become part of something bigger. Because at The DaVinci Institute, learning never ends — it evolves, it expands, and it empowers.
Join the Movement
For more information or to get involved, contact the Alumni Office:
At The DaVinci Institute, we believe that learning is not confined to the walls of academia. It lives and breathes in boardrooms, on factory floors, along supply chains, and in the lived experiences of professionals navigating real-world complexity. In that spirit, we are proud to announce a bold and strategic partnership with the Institute of Customs and Freight Forwarding (ICFF), an organisation as committed to professionalisation and innovation as we are.
Aligning Education with Industry: A Shared Vision
This collaboration brings forth a shared vision of education that is both relevant and responsive. Dr Sam February, Executive: Business Development at The DaVinci Institute, explained that the partnership opens numerous strategic opportunities:
“Together, we aim to align academic programmes with industry needs by integrating customs and freight content into Da Vinci’s offerings – content that ICFF recognises as key pathways to professional growth. Through co-developed short courses and micro-credentials that balance theory and practice, we will empower learners at every stage of their careers. We are also exploring joint research initiatives on critical topics such as digitalisation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance – backed by real-world case studies from ICFF members.”
Dr February added that the partnership will enable events like workshops and conferences that bring together students, faculty, and professionals for meaningful knowledge exchange:
“We’re also looking at structured opportunities for internships, mentorships, and executive training to strengthen engagement with the industry. Our collaboration will address digital transformation in freight, including blockchain and AI applications—and champion ESG awareness across supply chains. At its core, this partnership bridges academia and industry, fuelling innovation and growth across the customs and freight forwarding sectors.”
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two institutions marks the beginning of this journey – one grounded in co-creation, mutual respect, and a commitment to unlocking the full potential of industry professionals.
Addressing Industry Gaps and Setting New Standards
Ingrid Du Buisson – CEO Of CFF
Ingrid Du Buisson, Chief Executive Officer of ICFF and Master of Science Degree, a Master of Science in the Management of Technology and Innovation (MSc) alumna of The DaVinci Institute, highlighted the longstanding challenges that have hindered the sector:
“Learning and development in the logistics and freight forwarding industry have historically been fragmented and misaligned. Over time, industry standards have drifted from business realities, severely impacting the development of competent professionals. This is further compounded by a bureaucratic skills development landscape that has failed to adequately support a small yet vital sector – one that facilitates 90% of South Africa’s international trade. Sadly, a very small percentage of the workforce holds formal qualifications.”
But the partnership with The DaVinci Institute marks a turning point. As Du Buisson explained:
“This collaboration presents an opportunity to reshape learning in our sector. By co-developing programmes and qualifications aligned to real-world business realities, we are redefining the standards for competency and proficiency. Our goal is to build an ecosystem that supports professionals and strengthens their role in facilitating international supply chains.”
She also underscored the importance of Da Vinci’s learning model:
“DaVinci’s Mode 2 methodology is especially valuable as it supports working professionals in practical, accessible ways. The programmes are aligned to the ICFF competency framework and enjoy strong industry recognition. This partnership fits squarely within our vision of professionalisation – an imperative increasingly driven by global legislation and compliance requirements. Licensing of customs operators and professional designations are no longer optional, and this partnership enables us to respond proactively by creating learning and development strategies that meet these demands,” Ingrid added.
What This Means in Practice
This partnership will bring to life a range of impactful initiatives, including:
Workshops, seminars, and conferences that explore emerging challenges in customs, logistics, and freight forwarding.
Collaborative research and publications that merge academic insight with industry relevance.
Competency-based certifications that reflect the full scope of skills needed in a fast-evolving trade environment.
Professional development pathways for ICFF members and Da Vinci students to expand their influence and impact.
ICFF brings to the table a robust community of logistics and freight experts, deep sector knowledge, and a commitment to maintaining international standards. The Da Vinci Institute complements this with academic rigour, research capacity, and a human-centred approach to innovation.
A Shared Vision for Professional Growth
At the heart of this partnership is the belief that people drive the future of every industry. Knowledge is most powerful when co-created, and innovation takes root when diverse perspectives come together with shared intent.
We are not simply preparing individuals for existing roles – we are cultivating systems thinkers, adaptable leaders, and change-makers who can shape the industries of tomorrow. Together, The DaVinci Institute and ICFF are nurturing an environment where learning is ongoing, credentials are meaningful, and real-world challenges become springboards for growth.
Why This Matters
This partnership signals a new way forward – one where academic institution doesn’t operate in isolation from industry but walks alongside it. Where professional bodies don’t merely train but actively co-create the future of their sectors. Where learning is a lifelong journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and reinvention.
By aligning on ethical standards, intellectual property, transparent reporting, and ongoing communication, The DaVinci Institute and ICFF have built a foundation for a lasting and transformative partnership.
The DaVinci Institute and ICFF. Reimagining professional development together. For those ready to think differently. Lead courageously. Learn continuously. Welcome to a new era of collaborative partnership.
Did you know that the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry is worth over $1 trillion and plays a crucial role in economic development worldwide? Behind the scenes of some of the most impactful events in South Africa is Adele Hartdegen, a leader who is redefining innovation in the industry.
As the CEO of Dogan Exhibitions and the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Adele has built a remarkable career at the intersection of strategic management and creativity. With over 16 years of experience in senior managerial roles spanning the Telecommunication and Electronic Warfare industries, she has developed a diverse skill set that has propelled her success in the MICE sector.
Driven by a passion for creativity and strategic problem-solving, Adele transitioned into the MICE industry, where she has continued to thrive as a leader. “My ability to navigate complex organisational dynamics while fostering growth and innovation positions me as a versatile leader adept at driving results across varied industries,” she explains.
Milestone Events and Industry Impact
Throughout her career, Adele has led the execution of numerous high-profile events, including the 2023 AGOA Trade Forum Renewal Conference and the 2025 G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting. On behalf of prestigious entities such as the DTIC and DIRCO, these experiences have broadened her understanding of key economic drivers and reinforced her commitment to making meaningful contributions to South Africa’s development through the MICE industry. “These experiences provided invaluable exposure to critical facets of our economy that were previously unfamiliar to me,” she shares.
Essential Skills for Success in MICE
Adele believes that the MICE industry demands resilience, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning. “Thriving in this sector requires a passion for continuous learning and the creativity to incorporate emerging trends into event concepts, ensuring both innovation and profitability,” she says. Beyond sales and marketing, success in this fast-paced sector requires strong operational and financial acumen. By staying ahead of emerging trends and integrating innovative concepts into event planning, professionals in the industry can deliver impactful and commercially successful events.
Empowering Communities and Developing Talent
Through her leadership of initiatives such as the Rand Show, Adele has actively supported Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) by providing them with opportunities to enter the MICE industry. These platforms have enabled small businesses to network, gain exposure, and grow alongside Dogan Exhibitions and the Johannesburg Expo Centre. “By offering these businesses valuable exposure and networking opportunities, I have witnessed their exponential growth as they collaborate with our brand,” she reflects.
Within her organisation, Adele prioritises talent development by fostering a culture of internal promotion. “One of my most rewarding achievements has been supporting team members who started in entry-level roles, such as ground worker positions in 2020, and empowering them to advance to leadership roles, including portfolio managers,” she says. By equipping team members with the necessary knowledge and confidence, she has cultivated a workforce that is both skilled and empowered to drive the organisation forward.
Overcoming Challenges as a Young Leader
One of the most significant challenges Adele has faced is establishing credibility as a leader in an industry where many of her peers and team members have decades of experience. “Many of my peers and team members are 10 to 20 years older than I am, and navigating cultural perspectives has required me to demonstrate exceptional competence, professionalism, and dedication,” she shares. By consistently delivering results and demonstrating competence, she has built trust and positioned herself as a respected leader who inspires confidence across all levels of the organisation.
Looking to the Future
With the MICE industry fully recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Adele is focused on re-establishing Dogan Exhibitions and the Johannesburg Expo Centre as market leaders in South Africa and across the continent. “I’m excited about implementing new strategies to increase the attractiveness of JEC as a destination and increasing the contribution of the entities to support economic development and job creation in our immediate community,” she says.
A Transformative Learning Experience at The DaVinci Institute
As a current student in the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership programme at The DaVinci Institute, Adele has found immense value in the Mode 2 learning model. “The Da Vinci Institute’s Mode 2 learning model has significantly enhanced my ability to view my organisations through fresh perspectives and explore innovative approaches to addressing existing challenges,” she explains. The programme has provided her with fresh perspectives on leadership and organisational strategy, allowing her to critically assess her businesses and implement transformative solutions. Engaging in research projects has further enhanced her ability to identify areas for improvement and drive meaningful change within her organisations.
Adele Hartdegen’s journey is a testament to the power of strategic thinking, resilience, and continuous learning. As she continues to lead innovation in the MICE industry, her impact extends beyond business success—she is shaping the future of events, communities, and emerging leaders in the field.
