VUYANE MHLOMI: QURO MEDICAL, JAMES TAYALI: KEKI-MAWE, “A HOSPITAL AT HOME” “NUTRITIOUS FOOD PRODUCTS AND EFFECTIVE AGRICULTURE\" Quro Medical is a digital health tech start-up Hunger and malnutrition are critical public based in South Africa, where the healthcare health problems in Malawi. Keki-Mawe uses system is overburdened. Quro’s focus is on innovation and food science to produce simple providing hospital-level care to patients without but highly nutritious food. Keki-Mawe makes them needing to leave home. Quro aspires iron fortified powders, biscuits and instant to build Africa’s biggest virtual hospital. The porridge from locally sourced ingredients. Hospital at Home is powered by cutting-edge These products are rich in nutrients such as technology and supported by highly skilled iron, folate, calcium, proteins and vitamins, clinical staff, protocols and best practices. When which are essential for human growth and can patients are referred by their doctors, Quro reduce the risk of developing health problems gives them monitoring devices which collect such as anaemia and malnutrition. Keki-Mawe health data minute-by-minute. This data is also empowers rural farmers with innovative analysed constantly via a 24/7 monitoring site. agricultural training to grow nutritious crops, The doctor can access this platform and easily increase yields, and improve resilience in the manage the patient’s treatment plan. Constant face of climate change. Some of this produce monitoring allows the slightest change in the is procured as raw materials for the Keki-Mawe patient’s health data – such as heart rate or food products. blood pressure – to be picked up. This provides early warning about any possible deterioration, “Nutritional supplementation through simple in time to get them the necessary healthcare. but highly nutritious food is in high demand in Malawi. Our aim is to help the government “COVID-19 has shown a huge need for this type of to meet the United Nations Sustainable care. Our hospitals have struggled with bed capacity Development Goal Two of reducing hunger and limited resources and healthcare workers and malnutrition, through agriculture and food are run off their feet. Even without a pandemic, security interventions in Malawi.” resources are strained. We have come up with an innovative way to tackle these challenges.” – Founder James Tayali, a Malawian Mandela Rhodes Scholar and health innovation – CEO Dr Vuyane Mhlomi, South African Rhodes specialist Scholar ALUMNI AFFAIRS 45
SARAH BURNS: NIA CROWDFUND, KENECHUKWU IKEBUAKU: MOZISHA, “CONNECTING AFRICAN BUSINESSES “A SKILLS FACTORY GETTING AFRICAN TO MUCH-NEEDED INVESTMENT” YOUTH JOB-READY” There are many businesses in Africa that need a Youth unemployment is a major challenge in many significant boost in capital but are too small to take African countries; at its root lie inadequate job on the huge amounts of money that most investors creation and the lack of skills or skills mismatch on require. Additionally, potential investors may not the part of the job seekers. Mozisha seeks to close have access to the right networks and businesses. the skills gap between industry and job-seekers Nia seeks to help shrink this SME financing gap through Digital Apprenticeships. The company through alternative f inancing methods. Nia connects learners with businesses in order to supplies between $100,000 and $1 million to develop their skills in line with the demands of exceptional African businesses. This capital is the labour market. Unlike platforms that are sourced via crowdfunding, which makes it possible theory-based, Mozisha focuses on the practical to work with investors’ varying appetites for risk dimension of learning, by immersing learners in and makes it easier to raise for SMEs and start- real businesses and projects. Learners also gain ups stuck in the “missing middle”. The minimum access to mentors, a supportive community, investment per deal is $135, which means that and are provided with further opportunities to Nia makes African markets accessible to all types monetise their skills. of investors. Nia uses local partners such as angel investors or accelerators, to support business “Mozisha is building Africa’s largest talent growth and development post-investment. development ecosystem powered by a sophisticated digital platform which will help “Nia’s primary goal is to make investing in young Africans identify, nurture and monetise Africa easier, cheaper, fully transparent, and their skills while providing a conduit for recruiters more accessible to help bring in much needed to have access to skilled talents across Africa.” investment and shrink the $140 billion dollar ‘missing middle’ financing gap. We can find – Founder Kenechukwu Ikebuaku, Nigerian Mandela ‘purpose’ with our finances by fuelling local Rhodes Scholar and business expert business growth and prosperity.” – Founder Sarah Burns, Canadian Rhodes Scholar and impact investment expert 46 Ä Ä N I T P R I Z E : M E E T T H E F I N A L I S T S
THE ÄÄNIT PRIZE: MEET THE FINALISTS CHIDO DZINOTYIWEI: VAMBO SAMMY SAMBU: BARTANEL ACADEMY, “LANGUAGE LEARNING FOR DISCOVERY, “DECENTRALISING AFRICANS BY AFRICANS” THE MALARIA VACCINE” Africa is the fastest growing and second largest Rural, remote and low-income patients are often continent in the world, yet African knowledge excluded from clinical trials in Africa. Currently, only resources are difficult to source. Vambo Academy formally recognised research sites can conduct is an educational technology (EdTech) platform vaccine trials, which limits participation. Working on that uses digital resources to offer language the problem of malaria in Kenya, Bartanel Discovery learning, translation and knowledge services. is proposing decentralised, mobile-enabled Vambo teaches indigenous languages online and clinical trials situated in high-malaria regions, that offers a dictionary, blog posts and podcasts on can demonstrate that the vaccine works. Using cultural topics. A student may enrol for the self- mobile technology, the project seeks to secure the learning tool and learn an indigenous language at continuity of service and consistency in health- their own pace or they may book a virtual session seeking behaviour. This will lead to more people with an experienced tutor for a personalised enrolling and completing the malaria vaccine learning experience. programme. Malaria takes a huge toll on people and economies in some African countries. If we can “We are committed to building resources that immunise enough people against malaria, there drive inclusion, localise experiences, campaigns will be many positive benefits: if less children die and business by making it easier for language of malaria, families are less likely to hedge against to form the basis of the story. We believe that infant mortality by having more children. This every African language and culture deserves to supports family planning. Preventing malaria will be preserved and learned.” also improve early development and educational outcomes among children, by reducing the loss of – Co-founder Chido Dzinotyiwei, Zimbabwean school time due to sickness. Mandela Rhodes Scholar and entrepreneur “If it can be proved that a mobile-enabled deployment of the malaria vaccine is effective in a real-world context, this will enable almost immediate implementation in child and adult immunisations.” – MD Sammy Sambu, Kenyan Rhodes Scholar and health innovator ALUMNI AFFAIRS 47
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP FIVE KEY INSIGHTS FROM OUR AFRICA DAY WEBINAR ON FOOD SYSTEMS On Africa Day we aim to create a platform for public engagement on important issues. This year we partnered with the Sustainability Institute to offer a transformative conversation on an issue that is both deeply personal and systemic in nature. Mandela Rhodes Alumni joined industry experts for a dialogue which was attended by over 100 participants from 20 countries. The space invited a diversity of opinions as participants came from backgrounds such as civil society, academia and multi-national corporations. The result was a rich, thought-provoking conversation moderated by Rirhandzu Marivate of the Sustainability Institute. Participants left feeling a new consciousness regarding food systems, and a sense of urgency and agency. “It’s very important for us to ensure that “As human beings we cannot set ourselves the agricultural innovations that we are apart from nature. And we cannot therefore developing or promoting on the continent are addressing the priorities of our food systems. set ourselves apart from the food system… African food systems are very unique and so If we acknowledge who we are as humans the innovations we produce through research within that natural system, we acknowledge that it requires collective action to set us on must address our specific needs.” a trajectory to something different [to what exists now].” Dorine Odongo Scott Drimie Communications Manager Director African Women in Agricultural Research Southern African Food Lab and Development 48 T H O U G H T L E A D E R S H I P
Yannick Kala Konga Ayanda Mngadi Bhekumuzi Dean Bhebhe (Congo (DRC) & TUT, 2010) Chief Financial Officer (Zimbabwe & WITS, 2018) Central Technical Services PhD scholar and lecturer One Acre Fund at the University of the Lead at Pepsico SSA Witwatersrand “The economic value of our \"We envision a world “We need to continue to food system only represents where all farmers have big hold big food companies harvests, healthy families responsible for how they 10% of global GDP, but it and rich soils. Transforming produce, manufacture and represents about 34% of distribute food. This allows greenhouse gasses. That food systems in Africa us to keep hold of the ripple is a significant imbalance. starts with and should effect in the value chain.” And an important element centre around smallholder that we usually forget is farmers. Solutions must the disposal, the end of life portion of our food system. ensure that farmers What happens to food and have access to resources, food-related items after whether they are financial we’ve engaged with them? or research-based. Farmers That represents 10% of the need increased awareness greenhouse gasses that come from the food system.” about best agronomy practices for their land and meaningful engagement with government agricultural initiatives.\" ALUMNI AFFAIRS 49
DOCTORAL SCHOLARSHIP THE 2021 SHAUN JOHNSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARS The Shaun Johnson Memorial Scholarships (SJMS) are offered in proud partnership with The Leverhulme Trust. The scholarships support doctoral studies at a recognised institution of higher education in the UK. Each scholarship provides up to £100,000 per candidate to cover the costs of fees, maintenance and research expenses for up to three years. In 2021 the recipients of the scholarships were 2019 scholar Alexes Mes and 2015 scholar Jessica Breakey. Alexes Mes, South Africa Jessica Breakey, South Africa Degree of study as MRS: Degree of study as MRS: Masters in Applied Mathematics Honours in African Studies Proposed field of PhD study: Proposed field of PhD study: New quantitative methods for African Moving from rescue to salvageability in archaeological data emergency politics on the Mediterranean Alexes aims to pursue a study based on the Jessica will try to better understand the movements Mapping Africa's Endangered Archaeological Sites of African migrants across the Mediterranean and Monuments (MAEASaM) project. She will be Sea. She hopes to move beyond critiques of toxic developing new statistical and mathematical methods humanitarianism and think about ways to start in quantitative archaeology, within the context of building alternative infrastructures of solidarity. She a threatened and under-examined archaeological says the opportunity will support her in “journeying record in Africa. She considers the opportunity a towards being a better researcher, scholar and person.” “dream-enabler.” Alexes will study at the University Jessica will study at University College London. of Cambridge. 50 D O C T O R A L S C H O L A R S H I P
MORE ABOUT THE SJMS: This prestigious opportunity is only available to our alumni, making it a very compelling supplementary offering to the Mandela Rhodes experience. We appreciate The Leverhulme Trust’s ongoing support, which enables our exceptionally talented young academics to take the next steps on their leadership and academic journeys. ALUMNI AFFAIRS 51
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? After the completion of their years in Vincent van Bever Donker residence as scholars, our alumni move (South Africa & UCT, 2006) on to lead in various capacities. Here are some updates on alumni who are doing Vincent is a researcher in contemporary interesting and impactful things. English literature, specialising in world literatures and postcolonial and critical theory, with a particular emphasis on African literatures. His current research projects are on ethics in world literature, and secularism in Af rican literature. Vincent lectures at the University of Northampton, England, on the above specialisms in addition to Black British writing, Science Fiction, Religion in African literature and teaching English as a second language. 52 W H E R E A R E T H E Y N O W ?
Ajohche Awungjia Uosu Janet Gbam (Cameroon & UWC, 2016) (Nigeria & UJ, 2019) Today Ajohche teaches Language and Janet is currently pursuing a PhD through Communication Studies while completing the Centre for Human Rights at the her PhD in Linguistics at the University of University of Pretoria. As a lawyer and the Western Cape (UWC). Her research certified counsellor Janet offers pro bono falls within the field of interactional legal services to underprivileged people sociolinguistics. It explores the complex through her organisation, Fortitude processes through which our mundane Attorneys. In her legal career she has language practices are implicated in the personally secured the release of about (re)construction, maintenance and/or 25 persons standing trial without legal transformation of our social \"reality\". She representation, and hundreds more aims to highlight the role of seemingly through her co-convened organisation insignificant daily discourse practices the Network of Pro Bono Lawyers. in materialising, perpetuating and/or transforming dominant sociocultural and The Network of Pro Bono Lawyers is political norms and orders. a community of over 500 pro bono lawyers. Its members are committed to Ajohche is also a singer and songwriter. creating access to legal representation for Her musical style consists of a unique indigent persons in Nigeria by harnessing fusion of afro jazz sounds with elements collective power, fostering collaboration from afrobeat, makossa, RnB, soul and and increasing the capacity of pro bono trap. Her goal is to make timeless music legal service providers. which uplifts, empowers and encourages listeners to introspect to find and use the divine light and power placed within us by our Creator. ALUMNI AFFAIRS 53
My profession is incredibly cut-throat and incredibly hard. It requires a resilience that, had I not been in the MRF programme, I don’t think I would have been able to endure. Masasa Mbangeni (South Africa & WITS, 2009) 54 W H E R E A R E T H E Y N O W ?
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 12 YEARS ON MAKING MAGIC WITH ACTOR MASASA MBANGENI Masasa Mbangeni’s IMDB page has 13 credits, three nominations and two awards. This quantitative assessment of her 12-year acting career, while impressive, does not fully represent her talent and impact on the film and television industry. This 2009 scholar from Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, has diligently carved out for herself a stellar acting career on stage and on screen. Among her most significant roles are Thembeka Shezi, the villain audiences loved to hate on the TV drama Scandal, as well as being cast as the youngest actress to ever play Queenie in the Athol Fugard play Nongogo. Her email signature is a Mother Theresa quote: “Let us meet each other with a smile for a smile is the beginning of love.” This radical humanity and openness is precisely the feeling one gets in an exchange with Masasa. Her heart sits bold on her sleeve. In person Masasa gracefully towers over most her self-awareness muscle as well as ponder the people but her presence never feels imposing: it big existential questions regarding her path. She radiates like a light. At the Äänit Prize awards in confides, “My profession is incredibly cut-throat October, she co-hosted the live broadcast alongside and incredibly hard. It requires a resilience that, had CEO Judy Sikuza. She participated generously, I not been in the MRF programme, I don’t think I going to great lengths to get her parts just right would have been able to endure. My residency and having a sense of humour when things didn’t helped me grapple with my own shadow: sides of go smoothly. The interview for this profile took me that I did not realise were not cute.” place two weeks later over a video call; Masasa freed up time from a busy schedule shooting the Masasa holds a deep affection for acting. Even as an Mzansi Magic TV drama The Republic. eight-year-old going on stage for the first time, the craft felt safe and familiar, as though she had done Conversations with Masasa are a treat. Like a it in a previous lifetime. “The joy that I feel when I’m day-time talk show host, she is able to tap into on stage, I can’t explain it to anyone. It feels like that the universal human frequency. It comes as no first breath of a child. It’s sore and it’s uncomfortable surprise that she cut her teeth at the Wits School but it’s a sign of life,” she says sincerely. of Dramatic Arts, where she obtained her post- graduate qualification as a Mandela Rhodes Masasa’s most enduring performance in a role, Scholar. She shares fond recollections of her time that of Thembeka Shezi, earned her a South in residence. The cohort had explosive debates, African Film and Television Award and a Royalty at a time when much of the vocabulary for social Soapie award. She says that this has led her to issues was not yet readily available, but these being typecast as a villain or a stern character. debates were governed always by deep love [for Audiences struggled to see her as anything else. one another]. While she resented this at first, she later let it go. She says, “People have let you into their homes, to “We came from different fields, but the be a part of their families every day. So it shows an common denominator was passion. appreciation for your work and for your gift.” Her I don’t know how our selection panel exit from Scandal happened through the death of got it so spot on, but everyone was so her character and coincided with other things in passionate and driven,” she says. her real life also coming to an end. It felt symbolic and timely, and she felt that people embraced her Masasa credits her time as a scholar for the new beginning. strength to pursue her career with vigour. She says she was afforded the opportunity to build ALUMNI AFFAIRS 55
The conversation segues into the importance of She muses, “If I’ve forgotten my heart’s song, guidance and mentorship. Since Masasa’s time in they’ve always sung it back to me.” This sense residence, fellow actress Sibulele Gcilitshana has of familial belonging is central to how Masasa mentored her, which she says has made her feel constructs her public persona. On social media carefully held. she goes by MaDlomo, a name that refers to her clan. “[Calling myself] MaDlomo means that I am Having access to this mentorship has not walking alone. When I say I am MaDlomo I am kept her safe. “She’s taught me that saying that I’m here in all of my entirety: there’s a I lose nothing by holding space for a whole line of people who sacrificed and passed younger actor.” on their resilience to me.” Masasa too makes a concerted effort to pay it Masasa’s journey has molded her into a courageous forward for young actors, especially women. artist who also keeps a steady grip on being human. She is currently in her second year of studying Even as a decorated actress, Masasa has Psychology. She pursued this out of a curiosity battled imposter syndrome. She couldn’t about people and herself, and to learn what other fully believe in her own excellence. possibilities life may hold. She says her studies have Imposter syndrome is a psychological enriched her work as an actor. As to whether the pattern in which a person doubts their future holds a shift to practicing psychology, she accomplishments and has a persistent says this is a developing story. fear of being exposed as a fraud. Her initial weapon in fighting this was to turn to bravado, but growing older pushed her towards a deeper introspection, realising that this strategy is unsustainable. Therapy helped her unearth the root cause of her imposter syndrome. “As a child I felt too scared to exist in this world and the drama and acting gave me a chance to go, I might be too scared, but this character might not be. So let me live it out through them,” she says. This too became unsustainable when the pandemic blocked that outlet. A more sustainable model is self-compassion: acknowledging these feelings of inadequacy, giving them room to be and gently asking them to go. As a result of this journey today Masasa is an advocate for therapy. Fame is fickle, and so is the film and TV industry. Cultivating strong relationships with family and friends is key to helping Masasa stay in her magic. 56 W H E R E A R E T H E Y N O W ?
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 12 YEARS ON [Calling myself] MaDlomo means that I am not walking alone. When I say I am MaDlomo I am saying that I’m here in all of my entirety: there’s a whole line of people who sacrificed and passed on their resilience to me. Masasa Mbangeni (South Africa & WITS, 2009) ALUMNI AFFAIRS 57
ALUMNI CONTRIBUTORS THANK YOU TO OUR ALUMNI The vision for the MRF has always been for alumni to play an active role in the life of the Foundation. Every year our exceptional alumni give back in droves, playing key roles and acting as collective custodians of our work. Mentors 18 Thank you to alumni who mentored scholars in residence on their leadership journeys. mentors Grant Andrews (South Africa & SU, 2010) Natasha Ashley (South Africa & UP, 2016) Richard Burman (South Africa & UCT, 2015) Kira Düsterwald (South Africa & UCT, 2017) Reem Elsayed (Egypt & UWC, 2018) Cara Hartley (South Africa & SU, 2010) Hanani Hlomani (Zimbabwe & UCT, 2019) Musa Kika (Zimbabwe & UCT, 2015) Alex Lenferna (South Africa & RU, 2011) Poloko Mosesi (South Africa & RU, 2017) Zuki Mqolomba (South Africa & UCT, 2010) Comfort Ndala (South Africa & TUT, 2010) Moses Ogutu (Kenya & UCT, 2017) Jessica Ronaasen (South Africa & SU, 2013) Jonathan Ruwanika (Zimbabwe & UCT, 2018) Julia Standish-White (South Africa & UCT, 2016) George Teke (Cameroon & SU, 2018) Emma Whitelaw (South Africa & UCT, 2017) Selection Reviewers 13 Thank you to alumni who reviewed applications for the Class of 2022, helping to select the next generation of leaders. selection reviewers Nereah Obimbo Aluoch (Kenya & AFDA, 2017) Kira Düsterwald (South Africa & UCT, 2017) Kirra Evans (South Africa & UCT, 2018) Saleem Firfirey (South Africa & UCT, 2017) Chet Fransch (Zimbabwe & SU, 2006) Simangele Mabena (South Africa & WITS, 2008) Inga Macingwane (South Africa & UCT, 2018) Sharon Manoah (Kenya & UCT, 2018) Sarah Mbaka (Kenya & University of Cape Town, 2018) Shorok Sebaa (Egypt & UCT, 2018) Mary Silolezya Simujayangombe (Zambia & Monash, 2017) George Teke (Cameroon & SU, 2018) Lewis Waswa (Kenya & SU, 2018) 58 A L U M N I C O N T R I B U T O R S
MRC Ambassadors Thank you to those who built community as Mandela Rhodes Connect Ambassadors. Lisa Chella (South Africa & UZ, 2013) Nkateko Manganye (South Africa & WITS, 2016) Tulani Nkuntse (South Africa & NMMU, 2014) Francis Omesa (Kenya & SU, 2012) Axolile Qina (South Africa & SU, 2016) 5 Workshop Contributors MRC Thank you to workshop speakers, panelists and participants. ambassadors Kristal Duncan (South Africa & UCT, 2014) Kira Düsterwald (South Africa & UCT, 2017) Chido Dzinotyiwei (Zimbabwe & UCT, 2018) Jessica Illunga (Democratic Republic of the Congo & UCT, 2018) Kudakwashe Manjojo (Zimbabwe & WITS, 2019) Mario Meyer (South Africa & UWC, 2012) Iris Nxumalo-De Smidt (South Africa & UP, 2014) Mary Opondo (Kenya & UJ, 2011) Mpilo Shabangu (South Africa & WITS, 2017) 9 Governance Thank you to alumni who contributed their skills workshop contributors and experience to our governance committees. Investment Committee Mr Jacques Conradie (South Africa & SU, 2005) Dr Osmond Mlonyeni (South Africa & UP, 2009) Finance, Audit and Risk Committee Ms Thobela Mfeti (South Africa & UCT, 2012) Mr Nkazi Sokhulu (South Africa & UCT, 2006) 6 Selections Committees Rachel Nyaradzo Adams (Zimbabwe & UCT, 2006) governance Pie-Pacifique Kabalira-Uwase (Rwanda & UKZN, 2006) ALUMNI AFFAIRS 59
GOVERNANCE
POLICY UPDATES CHANGES TO EXISTING POLICIES AND NEW GUIDING DOCUMENTS Policy plays an important role in governance. Clearly articulated policies give decision-makers vital tools and are crucial in ensuring fairness and consistency. Over the past year we have dedicated considerable time to reviewing our existing policies and creating new ones to guide us in the next phase of our organisational development. We highlight a few of these here, with the full policies available on our website at https://www.mandelarhodes.org/about/governance-staff/. SELECTIONS POLICY ALUMNI GUIDELINES In 2021 we consolidated our existing selection Our 500+ alumni are key custodians, stakeholders criteria and guidelines into a policy document. and representatives of the MRF. In 2021 we set out The purpose of the Selections Policy is to to create clarity on how this relationship works provide guidelines for the selection of Mandela on the basis of our shared values. The document Rhodes Scholars in an ethical, consistent and provides guidelines for how we expect alumni transparent way. The Selections Policy articulates to relate to one another, the channels through our selections process in detail. It covers the which to pursue any grievances and what to do constitution of the Selection Committees, how when alumni want to represent or act on behalf to be consistent in the interview process and of the MRF. The guidelines also offer clarity on managing decision-making post selections for what alumni can expect in interactions with example, when selected scholars can no longer MRF staff, what level of transparency we can take up the offer. offer with regard to complaints or issues we are handling with scholars or alumni, and what the boundaries are of the MRF’s intervention on behalf of alumni. 62 P O L I C Y U P D A T E S
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION AND DATA PRIVACY POLICY ANTI-HARASSMENT/BULLYING POLICY In 2018 the MRF created an Anti-Discrimination The MRF’s stakeholders (staff, scholars, alumni, and Anti-Harassment/Bullying Policy that was donors and suppliers) entrust us with their shared with all relevant stakeholders. Several personal information, and it is important to us important lessons have subsequently emerged, that this is held and processed securely and and in 2021 work began on a process to review and in compliance with the Protection of Personal update this policy and its procedures to ensure Information Act (POPIA). The policy states the they are robust and sensitive to our values and rights of data subjects and the MRF’s data the broader context. The Foundation assembled protection principles. The policy identifies the an external review panel in March 2021 made up MRF’s information officer (Operations Director of experts in the field to look at key questions. The Ernst Gerber) and specifies how the MRF stores panel worked together throughout 2021, engaging and processes personal information. with MRF stakeholders through focus groups and interviews. The recommendations arising from this policy review process will be considered and an implementation plan developed in 2022. 63G O V E R N A N C E
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURES A DIVERSITY OF PERSPECTIVES TO CHART OUR FUTURE The Mandela Rhodes Foundation is powered by people who are deeply invested in seeing Mr Mandela’s vision for the transformation of Africa realised. We are governed by an independent board of high-profile trustees, who give their time on a voluntary basis. We are run by a small and very committed staff team. The Foundation’s staff and trustees come from a range of generations, disciplines, nationalities and backgrounds, and our strength is in how we bring our diversity to bear on our common purpose. Our governance structures include four additional committees that meet quarterly and are made up of independent outsiders, trustees, scholars and management. Each year the Mandela Rhodes Scholars are selected by three selection committees, which are also constituted of a mixture of staff, independent volunteers, and trustees of the MRF. BOARD OF TRUSTEES Professor Njabulo Ndebele (Chair) Dr Mo Ibrahim Ms Janet Kabiru Dr Elizabeth Kiss Mr John McCall MacBain Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka Dr Osmond Mlonyeni Justice Yvonne Mokgoro Justice Catherine O’Regan GOVERNANCE COMMITTEES Executive Committee Professor Njabulo Ndebele (Chair) Dr Elizabeth Kiss Justice Yvonne Mokgoro Finance, Audit & Risk Committee Mr Mustaq Brey (Chair) Ms Janet Kabiru Ms Thobela Mfeti Mr Nkazi Sokhulu Investment Committee Mr Tim Cumming (Chair) Mr Jacques Conradie Ms Muitheri Wahome Ms Judy Sikuza Dr Osmond Mlonyeni's 64 G O V E R N A N C E S T R U C T U R E S
When you handle hopes and dreams it is best to do so with compassion and a mindset to affirm. I found this to be a principle that guides the spirit of the MRF interview process. The interview asks the candidate to dig deep, yet without fail the quality of interviewees leaves one energised and assured that the Africa we yearn for is under construction. Dr Osmond Mlonyeni, Selector and Trustee Remuneration Committee Dr Elizabeth Kiss (Chair) Mr Mustaq Brey Professor Njabulo Ndebele SELECTION COMMITTEES FOR THE CLASS OF 2021 Committee 1 Professor Njabulo S. Ndebele (Chair) Ms Judy Sikuza Mr Pie-Pacifique Kabalira-Uwase Mr Tim Cumming Committee 2 Ms Judy Sikuza (Chair) Ms Margie Keeton Ms Grace Matlhape Ms Rachel Nyaradza-Adams Committee 3 Ms Judy Sikuza (Chair) Mr Sello Hatang Dr Osmond Mlonyeni Professor Enase Okonedo 65G O V E R N A N C E
Our world desperately needs ethical and public-spirited leaders committed to building thriving and inclusive societies, tackling humanity’s challenges and repairing historic wounds. The Mandela Rhodes Foundation is doing remarkable work finding and developing the leaders of tomorrow across the African continent. All of us at the Rhodes Trust are honoured to partner with you on this journey! Dr Elizabeth Kiss, Trustee 66 G O V E R N A N C E S T R U C T U R E S
OUR STAFF Ms Judy Sikuza Ms Julia Brown Ms Gigi Edross-Jeppie Ms Abigail McDougall-Fisher CEO HR & Executive Executive Assistant & Communications & Operations Manager Assistant Alumni Relations Manager Mr Joseph Maisels Ms Lunathi Ngwane Ms Shivon Philand Alumni Relations Programme Accountant & Officer Officer Building Manager Ms Zaiboonisha Naidu Mrs Coralie Anyetei Mr Ernst Gerber Ms Ayanda Radebe Operations Programme Operations Communications Officer Manager Director Officer “My highlights are our “Meeting the Class of “It still amazes me “We had a sudden hybrid approaches to the programme, 2021 for the first time how much I can learn burst of activity in Q4 selections for the Class of 2022 and was a highlight! After and enjoy the moment with the Äänit Prize the Äänit prize. Plus managing to put a year of engaging by just being present and graduation. The together events in a short time period!” virtually, it was a in a Class of Mandela whole team eagerly joy to connect on a Rhodes Scholars... showed up to do their more human level. Africa is a different bit. It was testament to Also, they brought all place as seen through how agile the period the vibes!” their eyes.\" of uncertainty has pushed us to become.\" Biographies of our Trustees and staff are available at www.mandelarhodes.org. 67G O V E R N A N C E
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021 Statement of financial position Notes 2021 2020 2019 Investments 3 R R R Increase/ (Decrease) 893 431 264 731 263 587 660 537 742 Income statement 11% Revenue 22% 7 300 627 Investment income 1 947 547 17 211 396 Other operating expenses 16 110 060 22 072 424 (36 978 192) Increase/ (Decrease) 5 014 044 (34 623 201) (12 476 839) Surplus/ (Deficit) for the year (31 869 035) Increase/ (Decrease) (6%) 51 793 468 (8%) (10 615 920) (10 748 632) 15% (1.25%) 70 707 801 Other comprehensive income 142 331 464 37% Changes in the fair value of investments 101% Increase/ (Decrease) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021 1. Nature of business The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Trust was formalised on 9 June 2003 as a joint initiative between The late Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and the Rhodes Trustees (hereinafter jointly referred to as ‘the Founders’). The Rhodes Trust pledged a benefaction over time of ten million pounds sterling (£10 million) for the purposes envisaged by the Trust Deed. The central purpose of the Foundation is to build exceptional leadership in Africa. This objective is advanced through the implementation of programmes, the flagship programme being the Mandela Rhodes Scholarships, which became operational in 2005. Details of the programme are to be found in the Foundation’s annual yearbooks and on the website www.mandelarhodes.org. The Board of Trustees reviews strategy and implementation annually. 68 F I N A N C I A L H I G H L I G H T S
2. Financial highlights This financial highlights report has been prepared by the Trustees of the Trust. It contains only extracts of the information contained in the annual financial statements \"The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Trust Annual Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2021\" and does not contain full or complete details. The annual results have been audited by the Trust's auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc. who expressed an unmodified audit opinion thereon. This opinion is available, along with the annual financial statements on the Trust's website at https://www.mandelarhodes.org/about/governance-staff. 3. Investments 2021 2020 R R Opening balance Total additions 731 263 587 660 537 742 Total disposals Total fair value (loss) gain (including exchange rate differences) 234 281 077 154 287 731 Reinvestment of dividends (225 115 922) (157 140 532) 142 331 464 70 707 801 10 671 058 2 870 846 893 431 264 731 263 587 Equity investments at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) comprise the following individual investments: Marketable securities A) Domestic equity fund 49 325 35 920 236 B) Domestic funds 284 781 716 280 479 865 C) Domestic Securities – Preference and equity shares 44 903 286 38 890 518 D) Domestic Securities – Government bonds 45 299 154 - E) Foreign Investment equity fund 217 274 254 207 020 918 F) Foreign Investment hedge fund 301 123 529 168 952 049 Total investments 893 431 264 731 263 586 69G O V E R N A N C E
Investment policy and performance The portion of the Annual Funding Reserves which is held in the Investment Portfolio is The investment of the Foundation's assets is also invested under the same mandate as the overseen by the Investment Committee on Endowment Reserves. behalf of the Board. The Investment Committee meets at least four times a year. It also receives The assets in the Investment Portfolio are periodic information and advice from the invested in a suitable mix of equities, property, appointed asset consultants (AlphaWealth) as bonds and cash as well as in hedged or absolute- to the appropriate asset allocation targets and return funds. These investments are typically exposures as well as the choice of investment made via collective investment vehicles managed managers and funds to invest in. However, by leading asset managers. The array of funds the decisions on these matters remain the and their respective investment managers is responsibility of the Investment Committee. reproduced elsewhere in this document. Scholarships are funded from two sources: Since inception of the Investment Portfolio’s The Endowment Reserves (which resulted from mandate in 2009, the Investment Portfolio has donors having contributed sufficient capital performed very well relative to the investment to fund one or more scholarships each year objectives, achieving an annualised return of in perpetuity) and from the Annual Funding 11.4% compared to the investment target of Reserves (which holds the aggregate of smaller 9.6% p.a. This equates to a real return of 6.3% p.a. donations that were sufficient only to fund part (cf: target of 4.5% p.a.). or all of one or more scholarships at a time over a limited number of years). We have continued to see a steady trend of outperformance in recent years with a The Investment Portfolio comprises the three-year annualised return of the portfolio of Endowment Reserves and that portion of the 14.4% p.a. compared to our targeted return of Annual Funding Reserves that are not expected 8.7% p.a. over that period. (i.e.: a substantial real to be used in the short run. The balance of the return of 10.2% p.a.). Annual Funding Reserves is held in bank deposits. Building on strong performance of 14% total In the case of the Endowment Reserves, the return in 2020, in 2021 we experienced an even investment objective for these funds is to better outcome with the Investment Portfolio achieve a real return (i.e.: the nominal return less achieving an outstanding nominal return of the inflation rate) of at least 4.5% p.a. over the 20.1%% against a targeted return of 10.2% for the long run within acceptable degrees of risk. This year. This equates to an outstanding real return is in line with the Board’s intention to maintain of 14.4%. the Foundation’s ‘spend rate’ from these Endowment Reserves (i.e.: the total expenses Much of this strong performance was due to covered by the Endowment Reserves as a some exceptional returns achieved by both SA percentage of the Endowment Reserves) at or and International hedge fund and absolute- below 4.5% per year over time, thus ensuring the return managers combined with the Fund’s ability to sustainably support the Foundation’s high exposure to foreign currency priced assets. work and the scholarships funded from this Long-only equity investment funds also did source of donations in perpetuity. especially well over the year. 70 F I N A N C I A L H I G H L I G H T S
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS At the end of December 2021, the investment portfolio had a 42% exposure to South African securities (2020: 51%), comprising 0% in SA long- only equity funds and preference shares (2020: 10%); 23% in equity hedged multi-strategy funds (2020: 24%); 9% in SA credit assets (2020: 9%) and 10% in cash and cash-alternatives (2020: 8%). 58% of the investment exposure was international (not including the international exposure within the SA-listed equity funds) (2020: 49%) - of which 21% was invested in international long-only equity funds (2020: 25%); 36% in absolute return/ hedged funds (2020: 24%); 2% in Gold ETFs (2020: 2%); 0% in international real-estate (2020: 0%) and 0% in managed-cash (2020: 0%). Recognising that the Foundation’s expenses are in Rands, we typically hedge the currency exposure to be 50% Rand : 50% Dollar unless extreme currency swings suggest holding exposures more or less than this split. 71G O V E R N A N C E
DONORS AND SUPPORTERS The MRF’s founding benefaction came from the partnership that Mr Nelson Mandela entered into with the Rhodes Trust in 2003. Since then, we have benefited from the extraordinary generosity of major donors who have made funds available to establish further Mandela Rhodes Scholarships. These donors share our vision of equipping the next generation of leaders who will make meaningful positive change on the African continent. ENDOWMENT DONORS These organisations and individuals have made significant donations to our endowment, covering the cost of one or more Mandela Rhodes Scholarships in perpetuity. \"46664 is delighted to be in a position to support the work \"This is a journey of a million steps and we look forward of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation in identifying and to contributing toward promoting The Mandela Rhodes nurturing the next generations of young African leaders, Foundation’s principles of leadership, education, distinguished by their excellence and their ethics.\" entrepreneurship and reconciliation.\" David Cohen The Friends of the MRF (USA) \"The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships represent the future I \"The Friends of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (USA) wish for Africa – education, leadership and civic society – wishes all at the Foundation and all the Mandela Rhodes together realising the potential of this great continent.\" Scholars every success in their continuing endeavours in this important work for Africa.\" \"Leadership is the key to Africa’s future and the Mandela \"The aspirations of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Rhodes Scholarships Programme plays a crucial role in and The Leverhulme Trust are in the happiest of developing the leaders of tomorrow from Africa, for Africa.\" resonance; the target itself remains as crucial and challenging as it ever was.\" \"We are investing in the success of future Mandela Rhodes \"OUP is committed to transformation and empowerment Scholars. We are partnering with the MRF to help nurture in South Africa and we believe that our innovative future leaders, especially in the fields of maths and science. partnership with The Mandela Rhodes Foundation goes This partnership speaks of our commitment to SA and our right to the heart of the spirit of transformation.\" drive to invest in education.\" 72 D O N O R S A N D S U P P O R T E R S
585 32 35 17 SCHOLARS COUNTRIES DISCIPLINES COHORTS \"We are guided by the principle of creating a legacy of \"In the end it is about creating opportunities … leaders and are committed to transformation and making opportunities to learn, to grow, to develop, to help our a positive impact. We are proud to partner with The youth to become the best they can be.\" Mandela Rhodes Foundation – an organisation dedicated to making a difference to the futures of our young people.\" Gary Lubner \"Creating any serious, new organisation is challenging. History teaches us that creating institutions that will endure \"It is a source of great pleasure to me that we have been is even more difficult … the MRF has achieved the objectives able to bring into being, in the name of my family, an in terms of Mr Mandela’s and the Rhodes Trust’s ideals. additional Mandela Rhodes Scholarship. I know that the More than a decade on, the future of the MRF has never beneficiaries will make the most of the opportunity.\" been brighter or more exciting.\" \"The McCall MacBain Foundation is very proud to support \"As the founding fathers of South African democracy and the important role The Mandela Rhodes Foundation plays Sibanye Stillwater, both Nelson Mandela and Cecil John in offering unique opportunities for some of Africa’s most Rhodes have played a significant role in shaping the promising young leaders.\" leaders of this country. We are pleased to be associated with The Mandela Rhodes Foundation.\" \"The Peter Cundill Foundation Trustees believe that their \"Unilever South Africa believes true change comes from mission – promoting the health, education and well-being long-term investment in our country’s young people. We of young people – fits very well with The Mandela Rhodes are proud to continue Unilever’s legacy of supporting Foundation’s central purpose of building exceptional the development of tomorrow’s leaders through our leadership capacity in Africa.\" partnership with the Mandela Rhodes Foundation.\" 73G O V E R N A N C E
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DONORS AND SUPPORTERS I have been privileged to GENERAL DONORS serve on the Board for the These individuals and organisations have past few years and I am given generously to the programmes, projects delighted that MRF is able and operations of the Mandela Rhodes to offer quality education Foundation itself. for many African youths. • De Beers Fund Education is crucial for • Anglo American Chairman’s Fund the development of young • McCall MacBain Foundation Africans. We hope to move • Mo Ibrahim Foundation • Royal Embassy of Norway this continent forward. • Provincial Government of the Western Cape • Northam Platinum Dr Mo Ibrahim, • Louis Vuitton Trustee • Derek Schrier & Cecily Cameron • The Foschini Group • Individual Rhodes Scholars • Anonymous Donors • Earthquake South Africa • Mandela Rhodes Place • Interpark South Africa • Compass Travel • Solomon Gallery • John Hughes • Treble Entertainment • World President’s Organisation • Guiseppe Ciucci • Amade • Singapore Airlines • Ronald Goldblatt • Bonhams • Isaac & Khumo Shongwe 75G O V E R N A N C E
Would you like to support the work of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation? You can contribute to our endowment fund to create a scholarship in perpetuity, support a scholarship on an annual basis, or make a general donation to the Foundation. The MRF has donation vehicles in South Africa, America and the UK and Europe. 76 H O W T O D O N A T E
HOW TO DONATE BECOME AN ENDOWMENT DONOR Support one or more Mandela Rhodes Scholars each and every year in perpetuity. Endowment donors receive full recognition for their support through the partnering of our name with theirs in respect of the scholarship(s) they support. Furthermore, they are provided with the opportunity (but not obligation) to develop a relationship with the scholars they support. The capital commitment required to establish a single scholarship per year in perpetuity can be donated over a period of five years. SUPPORT AN ANNUALLY-FUNDED SCHOLARSHIP Fund the full cost for a single scholar, or number of scholars, on a year-to-year basis. As in the case of endowment partners, these donors also get similar recognition by the MRF and the opportunity to engage with the scholar(s) they support. MAKE A GENERAL DONATION Many of our donors are unable to fund an entire scholarship but still contribute towards the Mandela Rhodes Scholarships and alumni programming. We gratefully accept all contributions no matter how small. These are aggregated with other donations and when they are sufficient to fund an additional scholarship we add a further scholar to the next cohort. Alternatively we use these donations to fund additional alumni programming. If you would like to donate or have any queries, please get in touch with Operations Director Ernst Gerber on +27 21 424 3346, or via e-mail on [email protected]. It is also possible to make a direct deposit for the benefit of the Foundation. Bank Details Bank name: Nedbank Account holder: The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Branch code: 145-209 Account number: 1452 028 060 SWIFT code: NEDSZAJJ The Mandela Rhodes Foundation is registered as a Trust (Trust No. IT5164/2003), as a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO No. 930004744) and as a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO No. 038-181-NPO). The Foundation is therefore in a position to issue tax certificates for donations made in compliance with South African Income Tax Law. We also have a B-BBEE vehicle that is reserved exclusively to fund Black South African students selected for our programme. For American donors, we have a donation vehicle which can issue a receipt for US tax filings via the King Baudouin Foundation. GOVERNANCE
YOUNG AFRICAN, Aspire to be a Mandela Rhodes Scholar if you dream of being a leader; a leader in whose blend of character and intellect Africa will take pride. Aspire to this if you believe you have within you the moral force of character and instinct to lead; and understand that leadership is more than personal ambition, it is also service, requiring the will and capacity to inspire and develop fellow human beings to their own excellence; Aspire to this if you believe that the advancement of individual and social fulfilment, human rights, dignity, the achievement of fundamental freedoms, is among the highest of callings; Aspire to this if you believe that hard work is essential, and you esteem the performance of public duties to be among the noblest of aims. Aspire to be a Mandela Rhodes Scholar if you understand education to be both a gift and a tool for the advancement of human development, to the benefit of all. Aspire to this if you value and pursue scholastic attainment, but understand that intellectual excellence is not to be seen in isolation from other qualities of character; that leaders require a roundedness of personality; Aspire to this if you believe that in receiving an exceptional education, an individual embraces a responsibility to foster such opportunities for others; Aspire to this if you believe that your own success might also make a difference to others. Aspire to be a Mandela Rhodes Scholar if you believe in an entrepreneurial spirit to allow Africa to take with dignity its rightful place as an equal and competitive presence in the global world. Aspire to this if you have the vigour to pursue this aim with integrity; and the energy to use your talents to the full, as exemplified by a fondness for and success in team pursuits beyond the confines of your professional career; Aspire to this if you believe that individual human effort, innovation and creativity will lead to the betterment of society and an effective contribution to the world; Aspire to this if you love Africa and all of its peoples. Aspire to be a Mandela Rhodes Scholar if you believe in reconciliation, freedom, peace and prosperity among all human beings, who should share equal citizenship and opportunities in this world. Aspire to this if you believe in being part of creating a humane world in which all individuals and cultures enjoy equal respect; a world whose emergence will say a new order is born in which we are all each other's keepers; Aspire to this if you value truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship; Aspire to be a Mandela Rhodes Scholar if you believe that the past, in all its imperfection, should be harnessed to benefit the present and the future.
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