Vhutshilo Makananise, 35, is advancing educational equity on a global scale. As the Chevening pro- gramme officer at the British High Commission in Pretoria, he leads the UK government’s flagship inter- national scholarship in South Africa and Lesotho — shaping scholar journeys from first contact to alumni engagement. Determined to bridge historic divides, Vhutshilo has expanded Chevening’s reach into under-resourced universities, introduced multilingual outreach and forged partnerships to ensure that marginalised students can access study opportunities abroad. “Access is not just about information — it’s about intentional presence,” he says. As co-founder of the Vhamandafhadzi Foundation, he mentors Limpopo youth through university preparation, scholarship readiness and career development. Vhutshilo has managed student mobility programmes at the NRF, including the NRF–Nuffic Doctoral Programme, which cemented his influence in African education diplomacy. A published author, his memoir reflects a journey from village life to international relations. Vhutshilo proves that education transforms best when inclusion is intentional.
I admire people who build quietly but intentionally — those who work with integrity, centre the community and refuse to be performative in their pursuit of change. My first mentor, Mr Edzisani Madzunya, spotted an intellect in me and made sure I went to university. I admire the professionalism of Prof Vhonani Netshandama, who nurtured me as a young social entrepreneur at the University of Venda. I look up to Prof Patrick Dzimiri, a former lecturer and mentor during my time at the University of Venda. He introduced me to the power of soft diplomacy through the works of Joseph Nye, and taught me that influence is not always loud — sometimes it is strategic, relational and deeply embedded in how you treat people. His mentorship instilled in me the discipline to think critically, write boldly and lead with a sense of purpose. I am also inspired by Dr Naledi Pandor, not only for her intellect and policy acumen, but for how she has consistently pushed for transformation and excellence in education. Her ability to hold space in global conversations while remaining rooted in African developmental challenges continues to shape how I see leadership. In a broader sense, I draw strength from everyday people — the students I meet in rural universities, single parents putting children through school and colleagues who do the hard, unglamorous work behind the scenes. They remind me that leadership is not about titles, but about impact and care.