Dr Thandi Mgwebi

I am responsible for spearheading the development and implementation of the NRF’s global partnerships, NRF’s influence, business advancement and funding mobilisation. My contributions to the organisation are multifaceted and centre around four key strategic pillars:

• Driving financial resilience and elevating the science ecosystem: I work on identifying and pursuing new partnership opportunities and revenue streams to ensure the NRF’s financial sustainability. This includes developing innovative funding models and strategies that support the South African science system.
• Fostering and nurturing partnerships: Building and maintaining strong relationships with national and international partners is a crucial part of my role. I spearhead collaboration with Government agencies, private sector entities, and international organisations to create synergies that advance our research and innovation goals.
• Positioning the NRF as a partner of choice: I focus on enhancing the NRF’s brand and reputation as a leading organisation in the global research community. By promoting our successes and capabilities, I aim to attract more partnerships and collaborations that bring mutual benefits.
• Driving impact of partnerships and programs: Ensuring that our partnerships and programs have a measurable and positive impact is a top priority. I oversee the development and execution of strategies that maximise the outcomes of our initiatives, benefiting both the NRF and the broader scientific community.

Through these efforts, I contribute to the NRF’s mission of supporting, promoting, and advancing research and human capacity development. My role involves strategic partnering in a global landscape, stakeholder engagement, and continuous evaluation to drive the organisation’s growth and ensure it remains at the forefront of scientific innovation and development.

What inspired you to become the leader that you are today?

Several factors have motivated and shaped my leadership journey and continue to drive my commitment to advancing the NRF’s mission and vision. I am dedicated to fostering an environment that supports excellence, innovation, and inclusivity in all our endeavours.

• Passion for science and innovation: From a young age, I have been fascinated by the power of science and innovation to transform societies. This passion has driven me to pursue a career where I can contribute to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation.
• Commitment to education and research: My academic and professional journey, including my tenure as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation at Nelson Mandela University and at TUT, and Director: Research at UWC, has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education and research. I have seen firsthand how strategic investments in these areas can lead to significant societal benefits.
• Desire to make a difference: I have always been motivated by the desire to make a meaningful impact. For example, leading initiatives such as the South African Research Chairs and Centres of Excellence at the NRF, and the founding directorship of the Southern African Systems Analysis Centre have provided me with the platform to drive substantial change and support the development of the next generation of researchers and innovators.
• Influence of mentors and role models: Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have mentors and role models who have inspired me with their dedication, vision, and leadership. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping my leadership style and aspirations.
• Commitment to inclusivity and diversity: I am deeply committed to promoting gender inclusivity and diversity within the scientific community. I believe that diverse perspectives are crucial for innovation and problem-solving.
• Global perspective: Engaging in advisory roles and collaborative projects on national, continental, and global levels has given me a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities in science and innovation. This global outlook has fuelled my ambition to lead initiatives that not only benefit South Africa but also contribute to the global scientific community.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders?

To the next generation of female leaders, I offer the following advice and insights to help you grow in your careers and make a significant impact. These have assisted me and continue to do so:

• Confidence is key. Believe in your abilities and the value you bring to the table. Self-doubt can be a significant barrier, so it’s important to cultivate a strong sense of self-belief and resilience.
• Find mentors and role models who inspire you and can offer guidance. Mentorship can provide valuable insights, advice, and support as you navigate your career path.
• Stay curious and committed to lifelong learning. Pursue further education, professional development opportunities, and stay updated with industry trends. Knowledge and skills are powerful tools for career advancement.
• Networking is crucial for career growth. Build and maintain relationships with colleagues, industry peers, and leaders. A strong network can open doors to new opportunities and provide support when needed.
• Don’t shy away from challenges. Embrace them as opportunities for growth. Be willing to take calculated risks and step out of your comfort zone. Innovation and progress often come from trying new things and learning from failures.
• Be your own advocate. Communicate your achievements and ambitions clearly. Don’t wait for recognition; seek it out and make sure your contributions are noticed. However, and importantly, combine this with humility.
• As you grow in your career, promote inclusivity and support other women and underrepresented groups. Creating a supportive environment benefits everyone and fosters a culture of diversity and innovation.
• Strive for a balance between your professional and personal life. It’s important to take care of your well-being to sustain long-term success and fulfilment. Set boundaries and prioritise self-care. It’s a hard one to do.
• Invest in developing your leadership skills. This includes communication, empathy, decision-making, and strategic thinking. Effective leaders inspire and motivate their teams, so focus on honing these skills.
• Stay true to your core values and principles. Authenticity in leadership builds trust and respect. Lead with integrity, and make decisions that align with your values. (Knowing yourself and your background, your heritage, helps)

The next generation of women leaders has the power to drive significant change and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future.