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Lynette Chen As we approach the midpoint of 2025, I find myself reflecting on the quiet lessons that come with the changing season. In nature, winter signals a time of hibernation—a pause to look inward, take stock and prepare for what lies ahead. For many of us, this is a rare opportunity to step back from the noise, reconnect with our purpose and ask ourselves: where are we on our journey t...

The Third Policy Dialogue of SALDRU and ALI SA at the South Africa at 30 Years of Democracy conference. The third policy dialogue jointly hosted by ALI SA and SALDRU took place on 4 April 2025 at the SALDRU conference on “Reflecting on 30 years of democracy in South Africa.” The session on “Financial Inclusion and Economic Transformation” was a panel discussion exploring how broa...

ALI SA alumni Fellows with guest speakers, Mteto Nyati (Chairman of Eskom) and Busani Ngcaweni (ALI SA Fellow and Director General of the National School of Government) 23–25 May 2025 | De Hoek Country Hotel, Magaliesburg The Africa Leadership Initiative South Africa (ALI SA) convened the second Good Society Seminar in the tranquil setting of Magaliesburg’s De Hoek Country Hotel, drawing tog...

Neo Muyanga, ALI SA Fellow When Neo Muyanga (Class III: Seriti) received the 2025 Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Sound Design, Original Music, Soundscape or Live Performance, the moment carried a profound sense of honour and validation. For Neo, this award is a celebration of the collective vision and passion that brought Manje! Manje! to life. “It is an honour to receive the ...

Alan Storey, ALI SA Fellow This month, ALI SA celebrates the outstanding achievement of Alan Storey (Class IX: Tariro), who has been awarded the 2025 Andrew Murray Desmond Tutu Prize for his book, The Bell, Banners and Blasphemy. In a conversation that echoes the values of our fellowship, Alan’s story is one of imagination, courage and unwavering commitment to justice—a story that reminds u...

Andrew Zaloumis, ALI SA Fellow “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” This African proverb rings true in the journey of Andrew Zaloumis (Class VI: Tshelela), whose legacy in conservation leadership continues to inspire across borders. As the driving force behind iSimangaliso Wetland Park’s rise to UNESCO World Heritage status, Andrew set a benchmark for v...

“A single seed can start a forest; a single Fellow can spark a movement.” Mpadi Makgalo, ALI SA Fellow In April 2025, the Aspen Global Leadership Network announced the recipients of the 2025 McNulty Prize Catalyst Fund. Among the six global awardees is ALI South Africa’s own Mpadi Makgalo (Class VI: Tshelela), honoured for her pioneering work with HEAL South Africa. This recognition pl...

Garth Japhet, fixlocal Founder Tired of electricity and water outages, potholes, or sewage flowing into your streets? fixlocal is here to help! Across South Africa, local government is responsible for providing essential services, yet all too often, it is “Missing In Action”. Many South Africans, despite paying rates and taxes, feel frustrated and despondent, unsure where to begin when fac...

Mounted Police in the Eastern Cape A significant step towards safer, more resilient communities has taken root along the Wild Coast. On Monday, 19 May 2025, the SAPS Mounted Unit began permanent patrols in this region—a development made possible by the collective determination of community members, traditional leaders, NGOs, the media and local partners. This partnership stands as a powerful e...

Gareth Morgan, ALI SA Fellow Gareth Morgan (Class XIII Akani), the Executive Director of Future Planning and Resilience – City of Cape Town, has co-authored a powerful new guide with Peter Willis: Becoming Good at Crises – A Field Guide for Leaders. This book arrives at a time when leaders everywhere are being tested by the pace and complexity of crisis and it offers a clear, practical p...

ALI SA Class XIV Fellows: Simon Freementle, Vuyo Radebe, Cobus van Wyngaard, enjoying Holi Festival celebrations in Jodhpur, India In a world marked by shifting alliances and deepening divides, the Globalisation Seminar in Jodhpur, India, offered our Fellows a rare space to connect, challenge and reflect. Simon Freemantle and Cobus van Wyngaard (Class XIV: Pamoja), both committed to values-based...

In the lead-up to SALDRU’s landmark conference: South Africa at 30 Years of Democracy, held in April 2025, a powerful partnership between the Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit (SALDRU) and the Africa Leadership Initiative South Africa (ALI-SA) catalysed a series of bold, high-level policy dialogues. Designed to challenge assumptions and forge new pathways, these engagements b...

At a time when global headlines threaten to obscure the lived realities of South Africans, our nation’s leaders are called to respond with clarity and conviction. The following statement, crafted by white South African Christian leaders, is a testament to the power of ethical leadership and collective responsibility. With unwavering commitment to justice, these leaders challenge misrepresentatio...

Basani Maluleke, ALI SA Fellow We congratulate Basani Maluleke (Class IX: Tariro) on her appointment as Group Executive for Capitec’s personal bank division. Basani’s leadership journey reflects the values and vision we advocate at ALI SA—integrity, innovation and a commitment to meaningful change. With a wealth of experience, including her tenure as CEO of African Bank and four years sha...

Reza Daniels, ALI SA Fellow ALI SA is pleased to share the news of Fellow Reza Daniels‘ (Class IX: Tariro) recent appointment as the Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University, effective 1 November 2025. Reza, who also directs the Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit (SALDRU) at the University of Cape Town (UCT), brings considerable ...

Experience the power of community, vision, and action at Africa Impact Forum 2025—where changemakers unite to shape the Good Society. This year’s theme, Africa the Good Society – The Power of We, invites us to reimagine what’s possible when we lead together, guided by the spirit of Ubuntu. Join leaders, innovators and visionaries from across the continent as we explore new pathways for co...

South Africa’s foreign policy is once again in the international spotlight. In May 2025, following renewed, high-profile engagement between President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump, questions around our diplomatic priorities, trade allegiances, and ideological positioning have returned to the fore. In a world where global alliances are shifting and scrutiny from Washington has in...

We are proud to share that ALI SA Fellow Kuben Naidoo has been appointed to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Economic Advisory Council. This prestigious appointment comes as South Africa prepares to take on the G20 presidency, highlighting the critical role our Fellows play in shaping national policy. Kuben brings a wealth of experience to this role. Currently serving as the Head of Corporate Pay...

ALI SA Fellow Phathiswa Magopeni has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Press Council of South Africa (PCSA), marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career and a pivotal moment for media accountability in South Africa. With over 20 years of strategic and editorial leadership experience, Phathiswa brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. Her career includes notabl...

On 7 February 2025, 22 ALI SA Fellows from various classes gathered in Cape Town for an afternoon of connection and conversation. This second gathering in three months showcased the strength of our fellowship and the importance of shared experiences. New friendships were formed, existing bonds deepened, and ideas exchanged over a glass of good wine in a relaxed setting. These informal meetups are...

Join us for the ALI SA Good Society Seminar, taking place from 23 to 25 May 2025 at the serene DeHoek Country Estate in Magaliesburg. This alumni fellows gathering invites you to reconnect with Fellows and explore the values that shape your personal and professional life. The seminar offers a chance to return to a safe seminar space to reflect on where you are in your journey. and engage in meani...

For 15 years, TEACH South Africa, an ALI SA Venture founded by Fellows Dr Mothomang Diaho and Dr Futhi Mtoba, has been transforming education by placing top graduates in under-resourced schools as Ambassadors. Through this initiative, ALI SA’s commitment to fostering leadership and driving social impact comes to life—ensuring that quality teaching reaches the learners who need it most. With o...

We are delighted to introduce the newest members of the ALI South Africa Fellowship! Our new cohort of Class XV Fellows represent a diverse cross-section of professional spheres, including business, the arts, government, media, and civil society. We extend our sincere appreciation to all who submitted nominations. Your insights have been invaluable in identifying African leaders committed to soci...

On 6 November 2024, the ALI SA Impact Leadership Dialogue Dinner marked a significant milestone in our journey towards shaping a brighter future for South Africa. As we gathered at the elegant Polo Lounge, Inanda Club in Sandton, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation and a shared commitment to addressing the critical challenges facing our nation. Celebrating Leadership and Partnership The eveni...

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This African proverb encapsulates the spirit of the recent Good Society Seminar hosted by the African Leadership Institute (ALISA) at De Hoek Country Hotel, Magaliesburg in October 2024. As we reflect on this groundbreaking event, we are reminded of the immense power that lies within our fellowship of visionary le...

ALI SA is taking its Fellows to a new level after solidifying the organisation’s structures and funding for the next five years. With the world in its current state of turmoil, the need for ethical and values-based leadership is required to find solutions for a peaceful and prosperous society. The need for leaders has never before been so stark. In South Africa, many are waiting for their c...

After help from ALI SA’s Venture Workshop, HEAL SA creator Mpadi Makgalo is ready to redefine access to mental health support in South Africa, while Fixlocal’s Garth Japhet will help you fix your neighbourhood. HEAL SA founder Mpadi Makgalo (ALI Class XI), has always believed in her venture and knew it stood a great chance of succeeding. She is more sure of victory now that she’...

I met Keith Berwick in 2002 while attending the Henry Crown Fellowship Programme in Aspen. I was inspired by his moderation style—his openness, kindness, inclusivity, and no-nonsense approach. It was that experience that motivated me to explore the formation of the Africa Leadership Initiative. In partnership with Ken Ofori-Atta, the late Ali Mufuruki, Romeo Rodrigues, and with the unwavering ...

Meet ALI South Africa’s new Executive Director. We are excited to announce that Lynette Chen, Class IX Tariro Fellow, will take the reins as Executive Director of ALI South Africa. Her unwavering commitment to this country and continent, combined with her track record of actively and successfully driving social and economic transformation in private sector-led initiatives, makes her the ide...

  Our Board is the foundation of ALI SA’s growth and vitality. The Africa Leadership Initiative South Africa takes great pride in the talented members of our exceptional Board. Many Board members are ALI Fellows and have completed the ALI Leadership training programme in one of the thirteen classes presented during the past two decades.  Raymond Ndlovu – ALISA Chairman/ Executive C...

On 15 February 2024, the beautiful Villa Arcadia in Parktown, Johannesburg, played host to a welcoming celebration. With the announcement of Class XIV, 21 new Fellows joined the ALI fraternity. ALI South Africa recently turned 20 years old, and we are proud to have graduated 13 classes through this programme. Our network of about 300 fellows is now shaping the continent in a positive light. Class...

Anglo American aims for green with Bambili’s hydrogen fuel cell power Class XIII Akani Fellow Zanele Mavuso Mbatha’s Bambili Energy has embarked on a groundbreaking venture, partnering with Anglo American, independent power producer Engie and the South African government. Their shared vision involves conducting techno-economic analyses for hydrogen fuel cell-related projects, a novel ...

  Fellow Jabulani Sikhakhane voices his opinion on Godongwana’s mammoth task Finance Minister Enoch Gondongwana and his cabinet must take government finances more seriously. This is the opinion of Fellow Jabulani Sikhakhane (Class V Mayihlome) in an article that was published on budget speech day on businesslive.co.za, where he wrote: “These little Dutch boy approaches to running...

When ALI Fellow Reza Daniels (Class IX Tariro) took on the role of Director at the Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit (SALDRU) last month, he did not waste time to share his vision for the unit. Reza plans to lead with determination – as a Fellow should – and he published his thoughts in the opening article of SALDRU’s January newsletter: https://lnkd.in/dytya3tX Befor...

In the midst of global challenges and uncertainties, as we bid farewell to 2023, the need for a Good Society has never been greater. Internationally, things are bleak. Some 21 months after Russia invaded Ukraine, the war continues to rage with massive losses on both sides spilling over to dampen economic wellness across the globe. In Gaza there has been some relief around the hostage situation, b...

South African cities and towns are deteriorating at an alarming pace. Fixlocal is a national project in response to the lack of action and accountability shown by local authorities. The dismal state of affairs have wide-spread repercussions, as all citizens are subjected to declining socio-economic conditions.  There are countless examples of active citizens and business owners who serve their l...

The Sustainable Development Report (formerly known as the SDG Index and Dashboards) is a global assessments of countries’ progress towards achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.  According to a UN statement the “implementation of the 2030 Agenda requires the active mobilisation of political leadership and ambition for science-based transformations. This must be achieved gl...

Roger Dickinson dreamt of shifting education in Africa. He became the founder and CEO of the African Spelling Bee. This literacy programme is growing in strength and has a current footprint in 20 African countries. The spelling bees – a first of its kind for the continent – have been running since 2010.  Have your challenges changed over the last 13 years and what would you say were the bigg...

Khulekani Mathe‘s involvement as speaker at the #EndPovertyDay towards the end of October 2023, formed part of an interactive conversation with leading development practitioners, civil society, the private sector and academia on ways to advance the empowerment of people out of poverty through quality and sustainable jobs to ensure no one is left behind. “My speech focused on encouragi...

The S in ESG is as crucial inside organisations as outside them. Sometimes a question implies one answer, but receives the opposite. “The reward of labor is life,” the British designer and social activist William Morris once said. “Is that not enough?” Morris’ question was rhetorical. He presumed the answer was ‘yes’. And, when he asked it, in the 1800s, it might have been for most ...

“The workplace should not be regarded just for expending energy but rather for getting recharged, motivated and inspired.” – Dr. Mothomang Diaho. We can only awaken our authentic power, when we know how to look after ourselves, maintains Dr Diaho.  To awaken our authentic power we need to look at what is essential for waking up our inner well-being and to master ourselves. According to For...

ALISA – launched in 2003 – strengthens the community by linking Fellows with similar interests through digital platforms and community projects. ALI’s purpose has always been to convene, nurture and inspire a growing network of influential, civic-minded, values-based leaders who are committed to the Good Society.  Over the past 20 year our Fellows responded with exceptional commitment ...

NEO MUYANGA, Class III: Seriti “I was awed by the wealth of talent … in the new generation of leaders … and the commitment demonstrated by many of the Fellows in contributing towards building … a just society.”  I have an abiding fondness for all of my ALI classmates, despite the fact many of us haven’t actually spent much time exchanging ideas in person since the ...

There is an African proverb that goes: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others”.  The Africa Leadership Initiative (ALI) Fellowship programme has been a long and fulfilling journey for me.  I have met many a like-minded people along way whom I would not have had the good fortune to engage with. Key amongst those Fellow travellers are my co-founders: Peter Ra...

“Our purpose is not to reach chummy agreements, but to challenge our Fellows with well-constructed arguments against their world view, to examine the idea of compromise, and to test its limits; to unsettle and to stretch our Fellows. Good debates on race, gender politics and economics are rare– there are very few other places in South Africa, or indeed the world, where such communication ...

The Africa Leadership Initiative celebrates its 20th year of steering leaders in pursuit of the Good Society.  By September 2023, we will have graduated our 13th class – it amounts to a total of some 260 Fellows since ALI’s memorable first class meeting in April 2003. Today some of the Social Leadership Projects of our Fellows are helping:  to feed 9 million children a day disadvantage...

By Karl Gostner. On the opening night of the Forum, Pulitzer Prize winner Dele Olojede was in conversation with Donald Kaberuka, who amongst many roles has been Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and President of the African Development Bank. Mr Kaberuka outlined themes that I would hear echoed throughout our stay in Kigali. It is an amazing feature of Rwandan life: topics like good governance, effe...

Entries are now open for the 2023 FNF GreenPitch Challenge!  Innovators and entrepreneurs, this is your chance. Get ready to share your business idea and network with potential investors and important decision-makers.  CEO Mike Mulcahy (ALI Fellow Class XII: Isilimela) and his company GreenCape, in partnership with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF), invite innovators and entrepreneurs wi...

Janade du Plessis (ALI Fellow Class XIII: Mahube) is the co-managing partner of Africa Launch Ventures and Five35 Ventures. His ventures are implementing serious initiatives to see exponential tech growth in South Africa. His ventures are currently involved as: a Gitex investor at the first ever GITEX Conference in Africa, and partners in the WomHub Women in Tech (South Africa) to accelerate, sc...

Nomfundo Mogapi, ALI fellow from Class XII: Isilimela and CEO at the Centre for Mental Wellness and Leadership, shares the findings of the centre’s study on the mental health impact of COVID19 on education. Covid restrictions may have been lifted, but the psychological scars obtained in that period, are still impacting our learners. A decrease in social skills as a result of isolation durin...