Vhutshilo Makananise

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.

• Bachelor of Arts Honours in International Relations, University of Venda
• Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, University of Venda
• Marketing Management N4 to N6, Central Johannesburg College

• Led the implementation of the Chevening Scholarship in South Africa and Lesotho, expanding access to historically disadvantaged institutions (HDIs)
• Co-founded the Vhamandafhadzi Foundation, which supports youth development and access to education in Limpopo
• Managed student mobility programmes across Africa and beyond while at the National Research Foundation (NRF). Contributed to the NRF-Nuffic Doctoral Programme, shaping a career in internationalisation and fostering skills in stakeholder coordination, data management and impact evaluation
• Authored and published a book as a personal milestone, sharing a journey that inspires others to pursue their aspirations

• Edzisani Madzunya, my first mentor, recognised my academic potential and ensured access to university. His early intervention laid the foundation for future academic and professional growth
• Professor Vhonani Netshandama, who nurtured my early development as a young social entrepreneur at the University of Venda, continues to serve as a model of principled leadership
• Professor Patrick Dzimiri, a former lecturer and mentor at the University of Venda, introduced the power of soft diplomacy through the works of Joseph Nye, demonstrating that influence can be strategic, relational and grounded in how people are treated
• Dr Naledi Pandor, whose intellect and policy acumen are matched by a steadfast commitment to transformation and excellence in education