NRF Hosts Inaugural Employee Recognition Awards to Celebrate Excellence

On Friday, 28 March 2025, the National Research Foundation (NRF) hosted its inaugural Employee Recognition Awards, a momentous occasion dedicated to the celebration of the outstanding contributions of its employees. The event, marked by excitement, joy, and heartfelt appreciation, was a tribute to the passionate individuals who drive the NRF’s mission forward. The energy in the room, and across other sites that streamed virtually, was palpable as colleagues cheered for the winners, recognising their dedication and hard work in the advancement of research and innovation.

In his opening remarks, NRF Group Executive: Corporate Services, Mr Kedirang Oagile, shared the importance of the awards in fostering a unified organisational culture. “This is a truly gratifying moment for the NRF, for it being the first time that the NRF recognises its employees and its high achievers. The NRF leadership believes that its employees are a driving force in achieving its mandate. Today, the NRF Recognition Awards give substance to that belief. To this year’s nominees, I wish to congratulate all of you. To the NRF employees, I wish to thank all of you for your individual and collective efforts that have led the NRF to be where it is today,” he said.

Attendees included NRF employees; the external adjudicators of the awards; the NRF Board Chair, Prof Mosa Moshabela, as well as a number of NRF Board Members. Professor Juliet Hermes from NRF-SAEON walked away with the highest honour after winning the NRF CEO Discretionary Award. This award is a unique recognition given at the CEO’s discretion to an individual whose exceptional contributions to the NRF or the Science System do not fall within the set award categories.

The ceremony was a landmark moment in the NRF’s history, coinciding with the organisation’s 25^th anniversary. “Over the past quarter-century, the NRF has been at the forefront of scientific discovery, empowering research that has made a tangible impact on society,” said NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, in his address. “None of this would be possible without the talented, dedicated people who form the heart and soul of the NRF. Our inaugural Employee Recognition Awards are a tribute to the passion, dedication, and commitment that each of you brings to our mission every day.”

The ceremony underscored the NRF’s commitment to its employees, reinforcing a culture where excellence, integrity, and collaboration thrive. The event also featured a dynamic montage that showcased employees across the organisation, highlighting their dedication to advancing science and research.

This inaugural event laid the foundation for a tradition of recognising excellence, ensuring that the contributions of NRF people remain at the heart of its success. The overwhelming enthusiasm from attendees signalled a promising future for the awards.

To add grandeur to the event, attendees were treated to live performances from Ola Sax band.