UJ Council Chair Mike Teke shares his insights on the role of Alumni
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ISSUE #3 July 2019 OFFICIAL UJ ALUMNI MAGAZINE
UJ Launches
Digital
Certificates UJ Council Chair Mike Teke
shares his insights
on the role of Alumni
APHIWE DYANTI Dr BERNARD NTHAMBELENI PROF BEN FERINGA
World rugby UJ Alumnus becomes Nobel prize winner
breakthrough player Vice-Chancellor of the received honorary
of the year University of Venda doctorate
UJ IN THE RANKINGS
World Rankings
ShanghaiRanking’s 2018 601–700 7th 6th
Academic Ranking of
World Universities (*654)
(ARWU)
QS World 2020 501–510 5th 4th
University Rankings
Times Higher 2019 601–800 6th 5th
Education (THE) World
Rank in South Africa
University Rankings
Rank in the World
Latest Edition
Rank in Africa
University Ranking 2018-2019 627 7th 6th
by Academic
Performance
(URAP)
U.S. News and World 2019 397 5th 5th
Report’s Best Global
Universities Rankings
(BGUR)
Center for World 2018-2019 790 9th 6th
University Rankings
(CWUR) World
University Rankings
Webometrics Ranking January 2019 841 7th 6th
of World Universities
(Ranking Web of
Universities)
Stay Connected
www.uj.ac.za/alumni
2 ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
CONTENTS 3
+
UJ Council Chair
Mike Teke shares
his insights on the
role of Alumni
6 UJ tackles fraud by pioneering Digital Certificates and a virtual qualification
verification system within Africa.
4
ALUMNI PROFILES
8 Angelo Kehayas, CEO of Profweb
10 Lesiba Mosehla, public health administrator, educator and politician
11 Melina Mutambaie Katende, Emerging Scholar Award
12 Dr Colinda Linde, Clinical Psychologist and Chairperson of SADAG The Vice-Chancellor,
Prof Marwala
14 UJ Alumnus, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni, becomes Vice-Chancellor
of the University of Venda emphasizes on
the importance
15 Nomndeni Mdakhi,entrepreneur and woman empowerment coach
of social sciences
17 Karl Muller, international tax specialist at Unilever in the Fourth
18 Limpopo born alumni are rocking the mining industry Industrial
Revolution
EVENTS
9
20 UJ’s influential alumni cocktail dinner
23 Applied informations systems first alumni breakfast
24 Soweto Science Centre, engaging high school students within the community
25 Close to 8000 high school learners visit the Art Centre
26 UJ Choir making moves within industry World rugby
breakthrough
RESEARCH
player of the year,
29 Prof Saurabh Sinha, digital research and innovation institutes future of education Aphiwe Dyanti
30 Prof Thaddeus Metz, man vs machine, the ontology of machine rationality
36 Prof Reinout Meijboom, serendipity and opportunities in chemistry
HONORARY DOCTORATES
37 Robert Michael “Bobby” Godsell, together let us build this beloved South Africa
28
38 Andrew Jackson Young Jr, civil rights activist
40 An honorary doctorate in recognition of technological innovation, President Xi Jinping
41 Katherine Johnson, NASA pioneer and African-American icon
42 Prof Ben Feringa, Chemistry Nobel Prize winner
Prof Mercy
Mpinganjira,
digital technologies
Editorial Team and customer
experience
In this edition, you will find some of UJ’s recent success stories, that is why the
magazine is called ALUMNI IMPUMELELO, which means success in IsiZulu. Through
this publication we take time to celebrate some Illustrious Alumni, Events, Research
32
and Honorary Doctorates. We invite you to follow us on social media and update
your contact details on the UJ website. This will allow us to re-connect with you and
for you to share in UJ’s journey. This journey includes positioning UJ as a leader in
the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Prof Sarah Gravett,
preparing children for
the Fourth Industrial
Revolution
From left: Dr Tinus van Zyl, Prof Kinta Burger, Mr Lubuto Kalenga, Mr Nell Ledwaba
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 1
2 ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
UJ Council Chair
“Skills that are shared by the
alumni with students, whether
in time management, financial
Mike Teke
management, development of
self-discipline and character, or in
career management can be more
easily trusted as direction and
motivation by students”,
explained Teke.
shares his insights
Mentorship
Rivalry in penetrating the
workforce is becoming more
on the role of Alumni
intense as a result of a higher
number of graduates in relation
to a limited number of job
openings. In the final year of their
studies, alumni can aid students
by mentoring them on available
ALUMNI HAVE AN communities and among the career possibilities in the industry.
youth of today. He wants all
IMPORTANT ROLE TO PLAY graduates, both privileged and Teke emphasised that alumni
those from an underprivileged further have a big role to play in
IN UJ’S DEVELOPMENT. background, to understand the assisting students to undergo work
importance of being an alumnus. experience in the organisations in
ALUMNI ARE MORE THAN To look back and be proud of their which the alumni work.
JUST A DESCRIPTION. NOT association with the institution
Expertise and networking
where they graduated.
ONLY IS IT A PART OF UJ’S Alumni can further contribute by
A lifetime relationship with
AND YOUR PAST BUT ALSO the university
rendering their expertise in their
occupation as a guest lecturer,
A PART OF WHO YOU A graduate’s partnership with an advisor in committees, and
institution does not terminate with collaborating partners in projects
ARE TODAY. their graduation day. Yes, it is a with the university.
We spoke to the University of breakthrough event, but ultima-
“In the field of industry research”,
Johannesburg’s (UJ) Council tely it is really a transformation
said Teke, “alumni can open doors
Chairperson, Mr Mike Teke, about into a lifetime relationship with
for a university to enter into
a university.
the important role an institution’s industry networks in the spirit of
alumni play in university “I read somewhere that it begins collaborative working. This opens
development. with interest and responsibility, it possibilities for the university to
continues with relationships that advance in a particular industry
A historical disadvantage
are worthwhile, and it ends with by applying the theories that
One of the challenges faced by benefit for all”, he said. have been examined with other
South African universities is that That begs the question, what industry specialists”.
many people have a preconceived role do alumni have to play in Don’t miss out! Be a part of
idea that being an alumnus is university development? Every
reserved for the rich and famous. UJ’s future, today
alumnus has undergone the
Historically, it was perceived as journey from being a student to “UJ Alumni are part of a truly
a boys’ club of sorts where your becoming a graduate, therefore special family”, said Teke. “The
societal status informed there is potential for alumni Council values your continued
your membership. to contribute to a university in interest in the existence and
various ways and scale. development of your University”.
“Being part of such reunion groups
has never been essential to African Role models and motivation He stressed that it is not about
traditions”, said Teke. “And that is giving money, but about giving
possibly why so many of today’s Alumni are powerful role models your time. It is about giving back
youth do not truly understand and are usually readily received
to the institution that played a role
what it means to be an alumnus.” by students. Alumni bring with
in your development.
them trustworthiness and
For this reason, Teke believes approval as part of a prosperous Contact the UJ Alumni office
that institutions are responsible university, having been there and and let us know what you can do
for ensuring that the traditions of struggling with similar challenges to play a role in the University’s
creating alumni are spread into encountered by the students. development.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 3
The Vice
The human touch is as important “So, although many jobs will
as ever in the technological age, be replaced by AI, it can never
says Vice-Chancellor and Principal, replace those that require the
Chancellor, Professor Tshilidzi Marwala
The University of Johannesburg is
human touch. Thus, the social
sciences remain an important
component in technology-oriented
Prof Marwala
keenly embracing the opportunity courses”, he said, adding: “When
to create courses that prepare new I studied medical engineering, I
generations for future jobs that also needed to incorporate human
emphasizes have yet to be invented, driven by
the Fourth Industrial Revolution,
says UJ’s Vice-Chancellor (VC),
resource sciences into the degree.
Social sciences are important for
engineers serving in a public
the importance Prof Tshilidzi Marwala.
Advancements in technology
role especially.”
The VC’s reading club
of social “Just 28 years ago, there was no
Internet, no cellphone. Consider
Prof Marwala is spearheading
several important programmes
how dramatically the world has
sciences in the changed since that time, and how
quickly it is changing now. UJ, as
at UJ this year, including the
VC’s reading club in which
students are invited to read books
FOURTH
an international university, must recommended, including
adapt to this change, and prepare AI Super-Powers China, Silicon
our graduates not only to survive, Valley, and the New World Order
INDUSTRIAL
but to thrive”, said Prof Marwala in by Kai-Fu Lee; 21 Lessons for the
an interview with Alumni. 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari;
Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel
REVOLUTION
Fortunately, thanks to advanced
technology today, these adaptive Kahneman; The Fourth Industrial
changes at UJ are well within Revolution by Klaus Schwab;
reach financially, assured Prof Eichmann in Jerusalem by
Marwala. “It is much easier to write Hannah Arendt.
a piece of software than create “The Fourth Industrial Revolution
a manufacturing firm. The initial requires us to be continual learners,
capital outlay was much higher for and that means constant reading
the first, second and third industrial and learning. The only thing that
revolutions”, he said. comes without effort is sleep”,
Addressing the position of Africa he said.
in the technological age, Prof Another important project is UJ’s
Marwala gave the example of Africa Biography Programme, the
M-Pesa, a mobile phone-based writing of 10 books over five years
money transfer, financing and that will feature South African
microfinancing service invented in luminaries such as Helen Suzman
Kenya. “Kenya was the first country and Miriam Makeba.
in the world to invent digital
money. It is a good example of An international approach
the innovation that can and does
In maintaining UJ’s track record
happen on our continent”, he said.
as a top university, Prof Marwala
The importance of the said the heads of departments
human touch were all looking to improve
student success, at the same time
The questions facing universities, the University was focusing on
meanwhile, are: How many jobs furthering its international profile
are going to change and what by attracting more students from
are they? What jobs will be all over the world. “The general
eliminated, and how many new idea is to bring students here from
jobs will be created in future? “A countries as far as China, while
doctor today is not the same as continually improving our online
a doctor 30 years ago. Today, courses, which are available across
artificial intelligence (AI) can read all the faculties”, he said.
and interpret medical images,
and a doctor needs to understand “The aim is to have 20% of staff to
this technology. More than this, a be international by the year 2025,
doctor needs empathy to deal with and 15% of UJ’s students to be
patients, something AI international by the year 2020”,
cannot replicate.” he said.
4 ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 5
UJ tackles fraud by pioneering Digital
Certificates and a virtual qualification
verification system within Africa.
UJ tackles fraud by pioneering qualification verification system parties or prospective employers,
digital certificates and a virtual that will enable its graduates to at no cost to both parties.”
qualification verification system access their qualifications digitally.
The online system has been
within Africa
Says the Senior Director of introduced further to increase
A first for South Africa Central Academic Administration, security features related to the
Dr Tinus van Zyl: “Not only certification processes in order to
The University of Johannesburg does this online system offer prevent fraud, curb counterfeiting
is once again shifting frontiers graduates access to their awarded and to avoid fraudulent
by introducing more innovative certification credentials securely representation of awarded
virtual capabilities in real-time. and electronically, but it also gives qualifications.
In a first for a South African the graduates access to share
university, UJ has now introduced their qualification credentials for “The digital certificate system
digital certification and a virtual verification purposes with third gives our alumni access to their
6 ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
qualifications and put them in The Registrar of UJ, Prof Kinta
control of who can verify their Burger, pointed out that UJ’s
qualifications.” Key features new digital certificate system
incorporated into the new system further protects the University’s
are designed around international certificates from fraud and
security standards and are
preserve the reputation of the
compliant with legislation in terms
University and the integrity
of the protection to personal
of qualifications.
information.
Prof Burger concludes: “UJ is
“Once a third party or a
prospective employer requests to committed to applying new
verify an awarded qualification, the technologies either in the form
certificate holder must authorise of artificial intelligence, machine
the access. UJ is constantly learning or automation. This
reviewing and implementing natural evolution brings about
security technologies to bring our accessibility to technology and
clients the latest, cutting-edge is only a small step as we are
systems and certification security embracing the Fourth Industrial
features”, says Dr Van Zyl. Revolution. We are pleased to
Included in the key features offer this service to our alumni
which the new digital certificate and at the same time protect UJ’s
system offers, is the ordering of qualifications and reputation”.
lost or damaged certificates; the
The introduction of digital
requesting of academic records or
transcript supplements; a secure certificates follows the launch
online payment portal; an optional of several online learning
delivery by courier (nationally or programmes aimed at creating
internationally) and the validation a generation of informed and
of awarded qualifications. connected global citizens.
“THE DIGITAL CERTIFICATE SYSTEM GIVES OUR
ALUMNI ACCESS TO THEIR QUALIFICATIONS AND
PUT THEM IN CONTROL OF WHO CAN VERIFY
THEIR QUALIFICATIONS.”
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 7
Alumni
Angelo Kehayas is the CEO of Seasoned professional
ProfWeb, a consulting, coaching,
As such, he has served as external
and training company that he
founded in 1995. He has extensive faculty lecturer for numerous
management, IT, consulting business schools and universities.
and programme management “My passion lies in developing
experience in large organisations people, using change leadership,
the world over. training, coaching and mentoring
approaches. I am able to grasp
Angelo Kehayas
and deal with complexity and
diversity, and to devise and
implement strategies using a
systemic and holistic approach”,
says Angelo, who has presented
and spoken at numerous local
CEO of Profweb
and international events, and
has designed, coordinated and
delivered numerous conferences,
including two international
ICMCI events.
Angelo is a Bachelor of Science
graduate with two diplomas
in business management (one
postgraduate) and an MBA. He
matriculated at Roosevelt High,
Johannesburg, in 1972, and in
1977 graduated from UJ (then
Rand Afrikaans University) with
BSc Maths and Theoretical
Physics, which he accomplished
with distinction. To get formal
training in computer science, he
completed nine modules of a
diploma in Datametrics at the
University of South Africa, then
10 years later did a one-year
Diploma in Business Management
from Damelin College, where he
was voted top Damelin student of
1989. Angelo completed his MBA
at Henley University, London in
1992/1993.
Studies at UJ
“It was at UJ where I started to
believe in myself. The Socratic
teaching style there was conducive
to academics and students
working together, and I always
felt I was treated with respect
and dignity”, Angelo recalls,
adding that although his home
language is Greek, he became
fluent in Afrikaans, “to the extent
that my lecturers couldn’t tell the
difference between myself and a
native Afrikaans speaker”.
8 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOAfter his two years of army training knowledge really exploded”, which is the holistic training
in the SA Defence Force, Angelo he says. of people in various corporate
worked for Olivetti as an analyst/ management capacities to
programmer and operating system In the early 90s, Angelo was senior reach their full potential”, he
IT manager at Spoornet and SA says. Angelo has since brought
specialist. In 1985, he started Archon
Rail Commuter Corporation, but his expertise to a broad range
Computer Products, importers and
was soon headhunted by IBM to of industries, including mining,
distributors of home computers,
head up its consulting services. services, telecommunications,
as well as Progressive Products,
Then in 1995, he founded BAI financial services, manufacturing,
consultants on networks and
Consulting Group, a professional group procurement, parastatals,
business systems. management consulting operation. transportation, distribution,
Career development Besides BAI, Angelo established and others.
numerous IT companies in the
In 1989, he joined Deloitte (at the Cinergi Group, including a He now spends much of his time
time Deloitte and Touche) as a call centre and e-commerce delivering keynotes, coaching
senior consultant in its performance ventures including ProfWeb executives and entrepreneurs
improvement unit. and FreelanceHR. “I found my and developing new
“It was at Deloitte that my business true calling around this time, training material.
King William’s Town in 2011, said it
was “a massive opportunity” and
that he was fully focused on
making the most of it.
Studies at UJ
After being deemed too small for
school rugby, he decided to play
soccer when he started studying
a BCom in Marketing at the
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
in 2012. He focused on his studies
and only became involved in rugby
again when his residence mates
persuaded him to help in the
WORLD RUGBY BREAKTHROUGH
varsity’s koshuis league. “I did play
a few times, but it was purely for
fun”, recalled Dyantyi.
PLAYER OF THE YEAR University rugby
Aphiwe Dyanti
“But the next thing, UJ asked me if
I didn’t want to focus more on the
game and to try out for the U19s.
The management at UJ was very
good, but it still took me a while
to warm to the idea. Eventually,
In November 2018, Aphiwe Dyantyi to be a nominee and to be a part
I was offered a sports bursary and
was named the World Rugby of this. I’ve always watched people
as I was looking at the time for an
Breakthrough Player of the Year at get these accolades, and I never academic bursary, I thought this
the World Rugby Awards that took really thought or imagined I’d be was a win-win situation. So,
place at the Salle des Etoiles in the one sitting here right now. For I decided it could do no harm
Monte Carlo, Monaco. any youngster, sports as a platform and gave it a go”.
allows them to express themselves.
A first for South Africa For me that’s a great platform, it Professional rugby
puts a smile on my face. When I’m
This award comes after a season The rest, as they say, is history,
on the field, it’s playtime, fun time”,
that saw him score six tries in and Dyantyi has steadily moved
said Dyantyi, after receiving his
thirteen appearances for the South through the ranks, graduating
award at the glamorous ceremony.
Africa national team. He is the from the Varsity Cup to become
fourth winner of this award and the School rugby a key player for the Lions Super
first South African. Rugby franchise last year and
Born in the small Eastern Cape town ultimately being crowned the
“I’m still shaking from disbelief, but of Ngcobo, the 24-year old, who Breakthrough Player of the Year
above everything, I feel honoured matriculated at Dale College in in November 2018.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 9Lesiba Mosehla, 51, is the manager performing duties”, to train as a teacher, sponsored by
of intersectoral collaboration and says Lesiba. his sister who had just entered the
policy at the Department of Health nursing profession. He became a
Humble beginings
(DOH) in Limpopo, a position he teacher in 1992, and also enrolled
has held for 15 years since leaving Lesiba was born in Tshwane as a distance learner in a Further
Olifantsdrift Primary School and raised by his maternal Diploma in Education (FDE)
(now Ditloung Primary School) grandparents in Mapela Village, Management with UJ (then Rand
as its principal. in the Waterberg district in the Afrikaans University). Afterwards,
Limpopo province. He attended he did a Bachelor of Education
“I see myself as a person who has Mapela Primary School, then degree, specialising in curriculum
the ability to make a difference in Mantutule High School where he development, also as a
people at the lowest level, despite matriculated in 1988. “At school, distance learner.
being at a higher level. I have I wanted to go to the army, then
remained an educator of note, Studies at UJ
I wanted to be a pilot. In Grade
with community members and 11 we were abruptly switched to “I had a passionate curriculum
former learners appreciating my humanities due to strikes that led lecturer who introduced me to
contribution in their lives”, he says. to our maths and science teachers the sabre-toothed curriculum, an
running away from the school. ageless existentialist curriculum
In his provincial government
I started writing letters to the paradigm. UJ has a highly
seat, which he took in 2002, he
then president of Black Lawyers organised, well-resourced library,
coordinates planning within the
Association, Ntate Petje, as I and on Fridays, I would leave the
DOH in line with national and
aspired to be a lawyer”, he recalls. library around 11 pm without even
provincial priorities and provides
technical support for policy noticing it was late … I miss UJ,
Lesiba repeated his matric to get a
development. “I am ethical, and the campus and its ambiance”,
university exemption to study law,
would go to extra lengths to ensure says Lesiba.
but because of a lack of funding,
that ethical conduct is upheld in he enrolled at Mokopane College Lesiba went on to do four
modules of an LLB at Unisa,
before enrolling in 2011 for his
Lesiba Mosehla:
Master of Public Administration
at the University of Limpopo,
again as a distance learner.
Public health administrator,
In 2000, he became one of the first
councillors of the Mogalakwena
Municipality in Limpopo, following
educator and politician.
the phasing out of the Transitional
Local Councils (TLCs) where he
was serving as the deputy chair
of the Lephalale TLC. His political
activism and participation in the
life of the Lephalale community
earned him a street named after
him there, Lesiba Mosehla Street.
A leader in transformation
Lesiba takes pride in leading
South Africa’s transformation
agenda in his different capacities
and platforms, and lives by two
dictums: ‘Remain higher than
hope’ – Fatimah Meyer; and
‘Tumeloke Thebe’…meaning your
faith is your strength. He still plans
to establish his own law firm
one day.
He likes working with the elderly
and disabled, he says. “It makes
me appreciate the life cycle
of humans and humanity in its
diversity”, he says, adding, “I
believe that humans can only
survive along with plants and
locusts/fauna/fish … as long as
there is soil and water”.
10 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOApplied information systems Alumna,
Melina Mutambaie Katende
receives Emerging scholar award.
Melina Mutambaie Katende, a
former University of Johannesburg
student, has been selected as
a recipient of the Technology,
Knowledge and Society Research
Network Emerging Scholar Award
along with four other recipients
from the United States of America,
the Republic of India, and the
Republic of Cyprus.
Melina’s paper was accepted to be
presented at the 15th International
Conference on Technology,
Knowledge and Society, which
was held at ELISAVA Barcelona
School of Design and Engineering
in Barcelona, Spain in March
Studies at UJ
Melina started her studies at
UJ in 2008. She completed her
undergraduate degree, a BCom
in IT Management followed
by an Honours in Informatics.
She completed her master’s
dissertation in 2018 under the
supervision of Dr Shopee Dube
at UJ’s Department of Applied
Information Systems.
While furthering her studies,
Melina worked as an IT Business
Analyst and is well-versed in the
a shared interest in the complex Autonomous Organisations’
electronic payment and collections
and subtle relationships between was well rated and selected
space. Her experience ranges from
technology, knowledge, for presentation at the Third
African remittance systems, Know
and society. International Conference on
Your Customer (KYC), financial
the Internet, Cyber Security and
technology solutions (also Representing UJ, Melina was also Information Systems (ICICIS),
known as Fintech), payments to appointed as chairperson in the at the University of Botswana
customs clearing, and enterprise themed panel sessions. This year, Conference Centre in Gaborone.
resource planning. the conference themes focused
on the Social Impact of Artificial “The award and associated
The Conference
Intelligence (AI): Policies and conference provide strong
Awardees are invited to attend the New Governance Models for professional development
conference to present their work Social Change. opportunities for budding career
and play a critical organisational academics”, said Melina. “The
role in the conference by leading Melina was also shortlisted to ability to meet and interact with
discussions, chairing parallel present at the International experts in the field and socialising
sessions, and helping in session Business Conference in Mauritius. with colleagues from other parts of
rooms. Founded in 2005, the Melina’s research paper on ‘IT the world create lasting networks
conference is brought together by Governance in Decentralised and connections”.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 11Dr Colinda Linde
a clinical psychologist and chairperson of SADAG.
12 ALUMNI IMPUMELELODr Colinda Linde is a of 11, she had read about clinical see a range of what can go wrong
Johannesburg-based clinical psychology and was certain that in a brain/psyche close up”.
psychologist specialising in this was what she wanted to do.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), She graduated in 1993, at only 24,
with 26 years of experience. She After matriculating in 1986, she and started work as a resident
is also chairperson and a director enrolled for a psychology degree psychologist at a place of safety in
of the SA Depression and Anxiety (including genetics) at Wits Pretoria, and then in Durban, with
Group (SADAG), and created University, relying on a student a part-time practice on a weekend.
“TheCBTgroup”, a group of mental loan for undergraduate studies. She opened a full practice in
health care professionals focusing Afterward, she enrolled at UJ (then 1995, and in 1997, returned to
on CBT for various ages RAU) for her Honours in Psychology Johannesburg to continue her
and disorders. and Master’s in Clinical Psychology. practice, still working from a CBT
framework. She became involved
A first for South Africa “The head of department at that
with SADAG, as patient education
time had been trained in CBT in
In 2013, Colinda launched the and advocacy is a strong driver
the US and it resonated strongly
first CBT self-help website in for her, and was elected to their
with me. I received CBT training
SA, www.thoughtsfirst.com, and board, becoming its chairperson
from him, and in addition to the
over the past two years she has eight years ago. She has trained
formal course work, I did my
teamed up with author and high- several SADAG psychologists in
master’s dissertation using CBT. I
performance executive coach, Neil CBT, which she says is the most
was fortunate to be selected for a
Bierbaum, to co-found and co- effective therapeutic intervention
master’s at age 22, and there was
author the Practical Mindfulness for anxiety and depression.
a degree of challenge being the
programme, online course and
‘baby’ in the group age-wise, but Colinda has attended several
book (www.practicalmindfulness.
I was delighted to have no gaps international congresses and
co.za). Currently, she is creating
or pauses in my studies”, received training in the US as well
practical online self-help courses
recalls Colinda. as locally, mostly in CBT and more
for assertion, sleep disorders, stress
management, panic, generalised UJ lecturers showed flexibility recently in mindfulness enhanced
anxiety, panic disorder, social CBT. “This has been a winning
UJ was a smaller and more combination of working with
anxiety, among others.
contained campus than Wits, and the mind at multiple levels, and
Born and raised in Johannesburg, being the 80s, quieter, she recalls. achieving lasting change”, she says.
Colinda was a serious student “I really enjoyed the flexibility
who loved school and became lecturers showed, for example, When her twins were born 16 years
an avid reader, with a special teaching many of the courses ago, she had to learn about work-
interest in biology and astronomy, in English, even though it was life balance and ended up putting
and later, physics based sci-fi RAU, as many classes had up to this into a book, Get the balance
and neuroscience. Her ambition 80% English speakers in them. right − coping tips for working
as a child was to join NASA and The lecturers were also really mothers (2005, Metz Press).
become an astronaut, but she had progressive, and many had trained
When Colinda is stressed she uses
and worked abroad, so
her own techniques, including daily
the experiences they
meditation. “I also remind myself
shared were invaluable
of one of my favourite meditations,
for younger students
‘the clouds are not the sky’ which
like me who had not
is all about impermanence and
really travelled or been
surfing various emotions and
exposed to the rest of
circumstances rather than avoiding
the world”, she says.
less than perfect vision, which is or trying to escape from the
Colinda did her internship at uncomfortable ones. I will be a
required, and turned her attention
Sterkfontein Hospital, where she student all my life, and never tire of
to exploring the brain, the mind volunteered to work in the closed evolving myself and passing it on
and human behaviour. By the age (psychosis) female ward. “I got to to others”, she says.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 13UJ Alumnus becomes Vice-Chancellor
of the University of Venda,
Dr Bernard Nthambeleni
Dr Nthambeleni was born
and raised at a village called
Madombidzha at Ha-Sinthumule,
which is located about 70 km from
the University in Thohoyandou, in
the Limpopo province.
Dr Nthambeleni completed his
PhD in Sociology at UJ in 2008
after graduating with a master’s
degree in the same field in 1999.
Prior to that, he completed an
Honours degree in Industrial
Sociology and a Bachelor of Arts
in Sociology, in 1994 and 1993,
respectively, at the University of
Durban. He spent several years
working at the National Research
Foundation (NRF) in Pretoria,
which gave him the opportunity to
acquire managerial experience.
New challenges lie ahead
He considers his appointment
as the Vice-Chancellor of one of
South Africa’s growing universities
as a defining moment in his
career. Yet, he is cognizant of the
challenges that lie ahead. Univen
faces challenges of underfunding,
inadequate infrastructure
development, and other service
delivery issues.
“I am familiar with difficulties
in these areas, which are quite
similar in nature. A lot of change
has taken place in the area and a
On 15 March 2019 University “This is a special occasion for me, new set of challenges has arisen,
my family, and my community”, which is different from the type of
of Johannesburg (UJ) alumnus,
he said. “I am humbled by the trust challenges experienced 20 years
Dr Bernard Nthambeleni, was
ago”, said Dr Nthambeleni.
that the university has bestowed on
inaugurated as the Vice-Chancellor
me to lead this great institution”. “I have been affiliated with the
and Principal of the University of
university due to my role as a
Venda (Univen), making him the Early career
member of Council appointed by
fifth Vice-Chancellor of Univen It is a historic occasion for the the NRF, and I have been aware of
since it was established in 1982. local community because the achievements by the university.
14 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOI am glad that I did not come its excellence in teaching and 30 NRF-rated researchers at the
here as a stranger to the issues learning. We also have to prepare University”, he said. “And these are
that the university is facing”. our students to compete and not the academics that we have
benefit from the digital revolution hired who were already rated”.
A vision for excellence
that is brought by the Fourth The state of education in SA
Dr Nthambeleni’s vision is to Industrial Revolution”.
improve Univen’s academic and “My biggest concern about the
research rankings and position He believes that Univen has state of our education system in
it among the top universities in already made strides in becoming the country is that we do not have
the country and on the continent. one of the universities of choice in a plan and good pipeline to ensure
“My vision is to position the the country. “The only difference that there is synergy between
University of Venda for impact. between us and other universities basic and higher education”.
The university has a big role is that we have not been funded
optimally in the past as compared Fond memories of UJ
in providing to the needs of
the country by producing to other institutions. Over the Although he is now focused on
graduates that will meet the former ten years, the University growing Univen’s stature, Dr
human resources demands of of Venda has made good Nthambeleni has fond memories
the country. The University of advancement in terms of our of UJ as “a great university” that
Venda should be known for research output. To date, we boost contributed to shaping his career.
Nomndeni
Mdakhi
ENTREPRENEUR AND WOMEN
EMPOWERMENT COACH
Nomndeni Mdakhi is an “I love creating brands and
entrepreneur with the seeing ideas come to life,”
advancement of women at heart. she says.
She has been instrumental in
founding a number of initiatives, In 2016, Mdakhi established
EDITS TALKS, a platform for
including Fuse Acadamy, a
budding female entrepreneurs
deejaying school for girls
to share their knowledge and
established in 2009 to help
experiences, and learn from
more women to break into the
successful role models in order
entertainment industry, and
to improve their business
EDITS TALKS, which exposes
acumen and grow.
female entrepreneurs to
business opportunities. “We all know that starting
a business can be a tricky
In 2011 Mdakhi established
and lonely endeavour. For
EDITS COMMUNICATIONS,
that reason, many look for a
a marketing agency helping
mentor to support and guide
entertainers position their brands
them during their new business
and leverage collaborative
startup,” says Mdakhi.
opportunites with corporates.
This agency now specializes in EDITS TALKS has been
creating insights-driven strategy able to attract an excellent
for brands whose primary target calibre of speakers, from all
audience are black females. over the world, in the media,
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 15tech, finance, entertainment and study costs, as I was raised by my AGENDA WOMEN. “AGENDA
marketing sectors, to share their mother’s side of the family and WOMEN” is my life’s work. I am
knowledge. Mdakhi herself is they had always taken care of me,” excited to be embarking on this
often invited to speak about the says Mdakhi. new journey. This is a global
opportunities available to black Entering entrepreneurship business that will not only touch
women in Africa. the lives of South African women
Years later, Mdakhi had her first but women around the world,”
“I realized from my own personal child, now 13 years old. “I worked she says.
experiences as a entrepreneur that for Multichoice and Discovery in
there was a need to create spaces a space of 2-3 years, but quickly The importance of perseverance
where aspiring and established realised it was not for me. So I
female entrepreneurs can feel safe Perseverance is critical to success
started my first business in 2009,
to share their stories and also learn in business, she says. “It has
the deejaying school for girls,”
from others,” she says. she says. certainly been key to my success.
I never give up, and with maturity
Mdakhi was born and raised in “The deejaying school was my I have also learnt to allow the
the small town of Newcastle in partner’s idea (DJ Oskido). For universe to guide me to the next
Kwazulu-Natal. “When I was me, it was the opportunity to get thing. But I cannot imagine never
young I wanted to be a teacher. started as an entrepreneur. We getting up when defeated and
Then, from watching Generations, didn’t know much about business trying one more time,” she says.
I decided to be a marketer. but we figured it out and the
They had an agency called New school is still running eight Africa, she says, is her other
Horizons on that soapie and I was years later.” passion. “I would love to see
always fascinated by what they Africans embrace the beauty of
From this experience, she saw
did,” she recalls. our continent, wake up to the
the need for an agency that
understands corporate challenges opportunities that exist and deeply
In 2001, Mdakhi moved to understand just how badass we are
and needs as well as talent
Johannesburg to begin her studies as Africans,” she smiles.
potential and challenges. Thus
at UJ. “I never put any thought
“Edits Communications”
to what it would cost. I just knew Although Mdakhi did not graduate,
was born.
that university was what was she has plans to study further in
expected of me. My grandmother Recently, Mdakhi launched another the near future. “I am keen to get
volunteered to take over my empowerment platform called an MBA,” she says.
16 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOKarl Muller (58) is a chartered full time allowed me to pay my
accountant specialising in own way through university”,
taxation, and is the International says Karl.
Tax Director at Unilever Industry
After completing his BCompt
and Trading Company based
degree and BCompt (Hons)/CTA,
in Istanbul, Turkey, which
he wrote and passed the PAAB
manufactures food products.
Board exam in 1985, about the
Highly experienced and qualified same time completing his articles.
“I began immediately practising as
His focus at Unilever is on
a chartered accountant. I really
corporate income tax, indirect
enjoyed Income Tax, probably
taxes and transfer pricing. “I have
because I like law more than
been in the fast moving consumer accounting”, he says. In 1990,
goods industry since 2005, and he obtained his MCom Taxation
have been fortunate enough to degree cum laude, coming first in
spend time in both Singapore and the class of 20.
Turkey in my current role as tax
director”, says Karl. In 2000 he enrolled for the HDip
International Tax Law programme
Born in Pretoria, Karl grew up in at the University of Johannesburg,
Centurion and attended Lyttleton completing it cum laude in the
Primary School, then Grey College same year. “I was exposed to an
where he matriculated in 1977. “I excellent group of lecturers who
was a boarder at Grey College and really contributed to my passing
it was there that I really learned to
become independent, and many
of the values I have were instilled
KARL MULLER
there”, says Karl.
An average scholar who enjoyed
sport more than academics, Karl
nevertheless worked hard enough
to get university entrance. “Our
international tax specialist at Unilever
headmaster always used to say,
‘all work and no play makes Jack a
dull boy’, but I probably overdid the
play part”, he laughs.
Karl aspired to becoming a pilot
after his first flight in a small with distinction. It was very sad to that are beyond my control.
private plane at the age of 10. hear of the passing of Prof Lynette And I don’t dwell on failures
“Unfortunately I failed my medical Olivier, who was an inspiration”, but see them as learning
in the selection process to join the says Karl. opportunities”, he says.
South African Air Force and that
meant I had to consider other Karl sees one of his strengths as The future
options.” An aptitude test pointed the ability to work on his own. “I’ve
Karl will be returning to South
him in the direction of economics, always been a self-starter. UNISA
is seen as tough because you’re Africa in July to take on a different
so while doing his compulsory dimension of work for Unilever.
military training, he enrolled in studying on your own, but doing
it this way gave me much greater “The tax world is changing and so
economics and private law at must multinationals, to deal with
analytical and thinking skills, and
UNISA, paying for his studies with not only the challenges of the
enabled me to deal
his meagre military wages. fast changing tax environment,
with complex issues without
Discovering his passion feeling overwhelmed. In the but also the rapid changes in the
business arena, this has helped world of business”, he says.
“I learn better if I can resolve issues
me to explain complex issues in a
myself, so I decided to continue Once he retires, Karl plans to get
simple manner”, he says.
studying through UNISA, but I involved in programmes such as
had to find a job, so I worked as a Karl says he always tries to find those run by the Organization
cashier at Van Schaik’s bookstore the positive in any situation, or at for Economic Co-operation and
and then joined a small auditing least a lesson he can learn from Development and the African Tax
firm owned by the son of our it. “Being an introvert I sometimes Administration Forum that help
neighbours. I had never done any withdraw to find space and time develop tax authorities. He also
accountancy, but I found I loved to think through the difficulty. I wants to pursue his hobbies, art
working with numbers, and working also do not try and change things and photography.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 17Limpopo-born alumni are rocking
the mining industry
From left: Matete Phasha, Mpho Kgadima, Tebele Letswalo, Andronica Mathobela, Andronica Makhura
Five Limpopo-born and -bred Excellence in academia (all disciplines) for women at the
alumni – all graduates of the University of Johannesburg in
Matete Phasha, having achieved
BTech mining degree in 2012 – 2012. Phasha says she is involved
her BTech Mining degree cum
are today making significant in a number of mining forays, also
laude, is now area manager
contributions to the mining in her home province.
for Sandvik Mining & Rock
sector at major mining com-
Technology, which develops “In Musina, Venetia mine (De
panies around the country.
engineering solutions for mining Beers) is sinking a shaft, and
Andronica Mathobela, Matete and rock excavation. The top sinking shaft operations in
Phasha, Andronica Makhura, performing student in her faculty Ivanplats in Mokopane is also
|Mpho Kgadima and Tebele in 2012, Phasha received the under way. Anglo American
Letswalo are all graduates of Faculty of Engineering and the Platinum has also acquired
the BTech Mining degree at UJ’s Built Environment (FEBE) Deans’ Glencore’s Mototolo mine and
Doornfontein campus (DFC), Honour Roll award for exceptional they are in the exploration phase
where, where they met, and since achievement, and was the to mine Der Brocken ore body
then, have remained good friends. Association of Mine Managers of to expand the life of the mine.
South Africa’s prize winner for the Another surface mine soon to
Mathobela is a business
best Mining Engineering Student go underground is Mecklenburg
improvement specialist at New
in 2012. She was also awarded a (Tjibeng), where Murray and
Denmark Colliery in Standerton,
certificate for Highest Academic Roberts will be doing shaft sinking
Mpumalanga, owned by Seriti.
Achievement in BTech Engineering operations”, she says.
Seriti is a major South African
mining company responsible for
supplying approximately 24Mtpa
of thermal coal to Eskom’s
Lethabo, Tutuka and Kriel power
stations, which collectively
generate about 23% of the
country’s electricity.
18 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOMpho Kgadima, also a BTech Ntabiso Ndiweni, Peter Knottenbelt The platinum in the Burgersfort
Mining graduate in 2012, is Section and Ivan Wermuth”, she says. area is also proving to outlive
Manager: Drilling, Blasting and most”, says Mathobela.
Mathobela recalls UJ DFC as
Technical at Kolomela Mine near
a close knit family. “Almost Kgadima agrees: “Limpopo is
Postmasburg in the Northern Cape,
everyone knew one another, even a province rich with the most
owned by Anglo American’s Kumba
across departments. My biggest valuable minerals in the world
Iron Ore, which supplies high-
highlight was the mining tour,
quality iron ore to the global steel such as iron ore, platinum and
under the HOD at the time (Peter
industry. Of her time at UJ DFC, diamonds. My personal feeling is
Knottenbelt). It was well worth the
Mpho says “it’s true when they say, we need to reimagine Limpopo
experience”, she says. She predicts
it’s the people that make the place back to the treasure that it is and
that she, along with at least one
… DFC is where I met my lifetime empower our communities to
or two of the class of 2012, might
friends, my mentors, and my educate themselves.”
reunite one day in Limpopo,
community away from home”.
Africa’s “mining Eden”.
Tebele Letswalo is shift supervisor
“The structure of the programme
The treasure in Limpopo in Rustenburg at Sibanye Gold,
also allowed us a glimpse of
South Africa’s largest gold
the industry, which was an eye “The mining sector in Limpopo
producer, while Andronica Makhura
opener for me. I am a proud is one of the biggest pillars of
miner from UJ, a quality miner. I the economy after farming, with is a shift boss at Harmony Gold
always say nothing prepares you a lot of projects on small scale Mine (Bambanani Operations) in
for the mining industry, but UJ. mining on the go. The coal in the Welkom, Free
Even today, I am still dependent Lephalale region (Grootegeluk State. Harmony Gold is the third
on lecturers who are committed Coal Mine) is stretching to a mining largest gold mining company in
to shaping my future, including life of close to 30 years. South Africa.
UNDERSTANDING TODAY. CREATING TOMORROW.
To us, “The Future Reimagined”, is not a mere line under our logo. It’s a daily challenge. It’s what
motivates us to integrate the 4th Industrial Revolution into everything that steers Africa to a place
of intellectual leadership. Creating Tomorrow is active not passive. It’s a collection of minds coming
together to make change happen, and we’re leading the way.
So, when you think of the University of Johannesburg, think of it as more than a just a world class,
higher education facility. Think of it as the place where tomorrow is being created.Events
UJ’s influential alumni
COCKTAIL DINNER
Influential alumni of the University The ambience whole. “The median age of people
of Johannesburg gathered for in Africa is 18. This places a huge
The evening began with a lavish burden on us. How are we going to
a cocktail dinner event on the
spread of colourful cocktails and educate our people?”, he asked.
Kingsway Campus Library on 1 sushi platters, then moved into
March 2018, to enjoy an evening the Chinua Achebe Auditorium for He described the Fourth Industrial
of insights, entertainment, and dinner, speeches and a live music Revolution as a “confluence of
opportunities to network. performance by the UJ Choir. technologies in the digital space”,
The evening was themed on the which had huge implications for
In attendance was the Vice- Fourth Industrial Revolution, which the world of work in the future.
Chancellor, Prof Tshilidzi Marwala, is at the forefront of UJ’s planning “We need to produce graduates
as well as some of UJ’s most strategy as a leading university on who will not just survive, but thrive
esteemed academics and staff, the African continent. in these environments, irrespective
including Deputy VC, Prof Angina of how complex they are, and our
The keynote curriculums will adapt accordingly”,
Parekh, Prof Sehaam Kahn,
Prof Tshilidzi Marwala, Vice- said Prof Marwala, adding that as
recently appointed Executive
the BA in PPE (politics, philosophy
Dean of the Faculty of Health Chancellor and Principal, delivered
and economics) created great
Sciences, UJ’s Chief Operating the keynote speech. “My vision is to
leaders in the past, so a BA in
position UJ in the Fourth Industrial
Officer, Professor Andre Swart, PET (politics, economics and
Revolution within the context of
UJ Registrar, Prof Kinta Burger, technology) would create leaders
changes happening in the African
Prof Saurabh Sinha, Deputy VC: of the future.
continent”, he said, adding that
Research and Internationalisation, South Africa’s fate was inextricably New courses will be introduced
Dr Nolitha Vukuza, Senior Executive intertwined with that of the rest of at UJ this year, he said, “to create
Director in the VC’s Office, and Africa, and as such, UJ’s thinking leaders in a world moving rapidly
CFO, Nolwazi Mamorare. had to embrace the continent as a into automation”.
20 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOALUMNI IMPUMELELO 21
22 ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
Applied information
systems first alumni
breakfast for industry
In October last year the
Department of Applied
Information Systems (AIS) hosted
their first alumni breakfast with
industry. It enabled academics
and UJ alumni to connect,
network, and re-imagine the
future of AIS in the context of the
Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR),
and to forge collaborations and
form industry partnerships.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 23Soweto
Science Centre
The Soweto Science Centre (SSC), industries (Eskom, Mintek) and
located on UJ’s Soweto Campus donors who contribute through
is the flagship learner enrichment the Johannesburg Institute for
programme of the Faculty of Advanced Study (JIAS). The SSC
Science. SSC provides additional hosted the Minquiz (funded by
tutelage to high school learners Mintek), which is South Africa’s
and currently hosts 428 registered Premier National Science
Grade 10 to 12 learners from Competition on 16 May 2019.
126 schools in Soweto, Eldorado Both the Eskom Expo for Young
Park and surrounding areas. Scientists (20 July 2019) and the
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry National Science Week (29 July to
and Life Sciences classes are 3 August 2019) will also be hosted
presented on Saturdays from by the SSC in the Imbizo Hall on
08:00 until 15:00 and during the Soweto Campus. The theme
school holidays. for the National Science Week is
“Facing Harsh Realities of
In addition to the enrichment Climate Change”.
and intervention programme for
As a single example of the many
learners, the SSC also provides a
success stories of the SSC, we
Teacher Development Programme
introduce Mr Vutivi Vukeya, an
during school holidays to improve
Actuarial Consultant and proud
the quality of mathematics and
alumnus of the SSC, who enrolled
science teaching in high schools
for the Learner Enrichment
in South Africa. The Teacher
Programme in 2014. According
Development Programme this year
to Vutivi, “it was a step in the
took place from 18 to 21 June 2019. right direction as many youths
Partnerships and donors really want to succeed but don’t
have the right platform and
The SSC relies on vibrant guidance”. Mr Vukeya credits the
partnerships with the South SSC with contributing to the seven
African Agency for Science and distinctions he obtained in his
Technology (SAASTA), relevant Grade 12 final examination.
24 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOLearners attending the National Science Week at the Soweto Science Centre
Close to 8000
high school learners visit the
Art Centre One of the greatest writers of all
time, William Shakespeare, was
immortalised at our University,
when performances of two of his
famous plays were staged at our
Arts Centre. Shakespeare’s Hamlet
and Othello remain two invaluable
teaching tools offering dynamic
performances, both educational
and entertainment, as the timeless
classics remain powerfully relevant
to present-day audiences. Over
a two week period thousands
of school learners gain a better
understanding of the plays’
varied themes of racism, love,
jealousy and betrayal. We also
used the opportunity to engage
with prospective students on the
various UJ study offerings, and
many were excited about
the prospect of studying at
our University.
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 25University of Johannesburg Choir
making moves within industry
After the phenomenal chaperoned by UJ and UP for
achievements of 2018 (winning several days prior to KUESTA. This
two gold medals at the World initiative is part of an exchange
Choir Games and being crowned by the American Choral Director’s
Champions of the World in the Association (ACDA) and the
category Folk Music A Cappella), three South African universities
UJ Choir is on a roll. One of mentioned above.
the choir’s highlights, this year,
will be a concert with the Afro Events
Jazz diva of South Africa, Gloria
For the first time in many years,
Bosman, on 13 September. This
UJC will join the Wits Choir on
unusual fusion of art forms and
stage on 16 August. Performances
music styles will be a first of its
kind – with composed work and with Barnsley Youth Choir from
new musical arrangements. The England (21 August), Songs of
concert will also feature a young Praise with Richard Cock in
and upcoming vocal group that Nelspruit (25 August), PUK Choir
birthed from the UJ Choir called at Etienne Rossouw Theatre in
Breathe, all to add extra spice to Sasolburg (13 October), annual
the sound palette. Celebration Concert (25 October)
and Dean’s Concert (2 November)
The University Choir Festival, will conclude a very exciting year.
KUESTA, takes place in
Potchefstroom from 20 to 22 The choir’s latest CD Peace is
September this year hosted by undeniably one of their best. It is
NWU. The festival occurs on proof of their ability to perform
rotation every second year and both African and Western music
although it is not a competition, with stylistic insight – indeed a
choirs put forward their best rare quality (Price: R150, available
foot to prove that the standard from the choir office or at choir@
of choral music is alive and well uj.ac.za and on all major digital
at our academic institutions and platforms).
can measure up to the best in the
international arena. In reaching Preparations for their participation
global recognition, five young at the World Choir Games in
conductors from the United States Flanders in 2020 where they will
of America will experience this have to defend their title are in full
first hand after they have been swing. Watch this space!
26 ALUMNI IMPUMELELOYou can also read
