UCT GSB Alumni
A GLOBAL NETWORK OF MOVERS AND SHAKERS
UCT Graduate School of Business alumni are building a more economically prosperous and more integrated world.
The Alumni Community
When you graduate from the UCT GSB, you become a lifelong member of the UCT GSB Alumni community. Being a member gives you access to a global network of alumni around the world and the opportunity to become a part of The GSB Foundation, to raise money for future students .
You also benefit from our Career Services and mentorship programme. We also offer Master Classes and regular networking events around the world.
Alumni Resources
Giving back: The GSB Foundation
Career Leadership Centre
Alumni Events
Meet the Head of Alumni Relations
Morea Josias
Head of Alumni Relations and Career Services
Responsible for strategic planning, development, management and leadership of alumni relations and career services activities for the UCT GSB, Morea plans and implements projects that strategically engage alumni and industry in strengthening various UCT GSB activities that provide tangible benefits to alumni, current UCT GSB student job seekers and the school as a whole.
A key aspect of role, Morea believes, is the way relationships are managed, with the most rewarding aspect being when people with common interests and goals make a connection that is mutually beneficial.
Resources
Resources
Alumni Resources are available to all UCT GSB Alumni from the very first day on campus and throughout your career. Connect with alumni from around the world, offer your time as a mentor, gain invaluable career guidance, and enjoy the many benefits available to you as an alumnus of UCT GSB.
GSB Foundation
The GSB Foundation supports the UCT GSB in four key areas: scholarships, faculty, research, and facilities. It's mission is to provide the most talented students, regardless of their financial circumstances, an opportunity to benefit from a world-class education at the UCT GSB. Contributions to the GSB Foundation can be made via donations to the endowment, sponsorships, bequests and in-kind donations of time or talent.
Chapters
UCT GSB Alumni Chapters play a critical role in building and fostering ongoing relationships with alumni in different regions. Chapters coordinate and provide opportunities for alumni to connect, network and contribute to UCT GSB fundraising initiatives. Learn more about how to get involved and join or start a chapter in your city
Upcoming Alumni Events
Alumni Meet-Up with the UCT GSB Director
We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive alumnus meet-up with Catherine Duggan, Director of UCT GSB during her upcoming visit to the UK. This informal gathering is an opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni, hear updates from the school, and engage in meaningful conversations with the Director.
Learn more RSVPAlumni Awards
The Director's Alumni Award was initiated in 2007. Since its inception the UCT GSB Director has given the Award to two alumni each year who have made a significant contribution either in the promotion of, and service to, the UCT GSB or through building alumni relationships. See recent awards from the past 5 years. A full list is available upon enquiry.
The Award for Long Term Contribution in the Promotion of the UCT GSB:
- 2015 Linda Fasham (GSB 1987 - 2014)
- 2016 Cedric Parker (MBA 1988)
- 2017 Robin Kuriakose (MBA 2008)
- 2018 Professor Trevor Williams
- 2019 Peter Major (MBA 1984)
The Award for Contribution in the Building of Alumni Relations of the UCT GSB.
- 2015 Simryn de Jager (MBA 2012/13)
- 2016 Gys Kappers (EMBA 2010/2011)
- 2017 Kim Thipe (EMBA 2005/2006)
- 2018 Sandy Mattison (MBA 1997)
- 2019 Jerry Igwilo (MBA 2006/2007
Contact Us
Please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Alumni Relations Team. If you need to update your contact details to stay in touch, please email us by clicking on the button. You are also welcome to:
Phone us: 0860 828 472 | +27 (0)21 650 7500
Ideas Exchange
News, Articles & Alumni Profiles
UCT GSB Alumni Reunion Weekend 2024: The Re-Dream Machine
From a personal photograph that Dr Duggan took of a volatile gas tanker on the most dangerous but economically significant road in Africa to some thought-provoking predictions from futurist Anton Musgrave – the 2024 UCT Graduate School of Business Alumni Reunion Weekend delivered a dose of intellectual and emotional stimulation for a group of alumni who reconnected, shared ideas, and raised funds for the next generation of changemakers.
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Alumni Reunion Weekend 2023: A celebration of learning, connection, and inspiration
Each year, the ARW is not just about reminiscing but also about reigniting that spark for continuous learning and growth – a golden opportunity to reflect on where you've been, recharge with new knowledge, and reimagine where your career and life can take you next. This event is a cornerstone of the UCT GSB’s proud foundations. A time for alumni to reaffirm their place in a global network of change-makers and leaders.
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EMBA24’s immersive journey into the hustle and heart of Nairobi
In April 2024, EMBA24 students embarked on a trip to Nairobi, exploring the vibrant culture, economy, and entrepreneurial spirit of Kenya. From engaging with local businesses to understanding the impact of social enterprises, the experience provided valuable insights into the GSB’s vision of better African leadership.
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The UCT GSB EMBA: a personal metamorphosis
Satish Antony [EMBA 2022] shares his deeply personal journey of growth and professional development through UCT GSB's Executive MBA programme, highlighting how the programme broadened his horizons, challenged his assumptions, and proved the importance of self-awareness for effective leadership.
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Cassim Motala: Game Changer
As a student at the UCT Graduate School of Business, Cassim Motala (MBA, Class of 2004) helped to shape not just the structure and delivery but the ethos of the School’s MBA programme. As an alumnus, he continues to push for the programme to be as progressive and relevant as ever
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How an Inclusive MBA in Cape Town inspired Tsitsi Hatendi-Mtika (MBA 2014) to Change the Finance Industry
Tsitsi Hatendi-Matika chose the MBA at the UCT GSB to help her broaden her career horizons in finance. Now it’s helping her change the industry for the better.
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UCT GSB Highlights in 2023
This year has been an exceptional year for the UCT GSB. This article highlights some of the moments that were greatly celebrated.
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REFLECTIONS ON ARW 2023: 20-22 October
“The highlight for me at the reunion was being back in a lecture theatre with some of my classmates. Nostalgia for 2010 - definitely - but also great to learn new things.” Kate Wardle (MBA 2010) reports back on the ARW.
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The UCT GSB Case Writing Centre pioneers open-source, multimedia cases alongside its traditional collection
In its sixth year of creating excellent cases for the business school classroom, the Case Writing Centre has now spread its wings to add an innovative approach to cases. By Claire Barnado
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2023 GSB THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE
On Sunday, 22 October, the traditional Three Peaks Challenge took place with long-time champion Alumni, Peter Major (MBA1984) taking part, each year, since his time as a student at the GSB.
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Learning Agility in Knowledge Workers: Leveraging Adaptability to Reach Success
This article explores what agility means and the critical role it plays in driving the success of knowledge workers
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Stemming the Talent Exodus and Securing SA's Future Pipeline
Excerpt from "Stemming the Talent Exodus and Securing SA's Future Pipeline" event and key take-aways from the UCT GSB Alumni Department.
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Future-Proofing Your Skills: Adapting for Tomorrow's Challenges Today
In honour of Women's Day, the UCT GSB hosted a panel discussion on campus the UCT GSB hosted a panel discussion, on campus, featuring alumni and guests to discuss how best to future-proof your skills.
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Farayi Kambarani at the UCT GSB ARW2023
Farayi Kambarami is a Supply Chain Planning, Data and Analytics professional with over 25 years of experience in various roles within these fields.
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The Inuagural Africa Impact Summit 13-14 July 2023
The inuagural Africa Impact Summit, hosted by the GSB Bertha Centre, took place on 13-14 July 2023 in Cape Town. Speakers included GSB Dean Dr Catherine Duggan, Richard Perez of the d-school Afrika and Director of the Bertha Centre Solange Rosa.
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The UCT GSB Alumni Chapter Lead for Zimbabwe - Simba Mswaka
Having grown up in Zimbabwe and Botswana, before studying my two degrees in South Africa, I know how important it is to work across cultures.
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Lighting the way
I worked in senior project roles at Eskom for over a decade and during this time, I was nominated to represent Eskom in the Association of Municipal Electricity Utility – Women in Electricity and joined the AMEU executive council.
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Systems thinking and design thinking for business leaders.
On 18 May, GSB Alumni Relations hosted a discussion with Richard Perez, UCT GSB EMBA Alum and founding director of the d-school Afrika, and Sean Lewis, Guest Lecturer on the Executive MBA program and EMBA Alum at the UCT GSB were in discussion about systems thinking and Design-led thinking approaches to tackle challenges leaders face today.
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Interview with Thapelo Tsheole – CEO, Botswana Stock Exchange
Thapelo Tsheole (Modular MBA 2013/14), the CEO of the Botswana Stock Exchange, recently took time out of his attendance at the African Mining Indaba to address our current Modular MBA class about Botswana's economy.
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Working at the d-school Afrika
The Hasso Plattner d-school Afrika recently opened its striking new building on the University of Cape Town’s middle campus after being at the GSB since 2016. The d.confestival, the first of its kind in Africa, was hosted in October 2022 and, as four of our alumni now work for d-school, we encourage you to read more about this innovative school.
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GSB adjunct faculty win book award
The Systems Work of Social Change, by social innovation researcher, writer and lecturer Cynthia Rayner and #SchwabFound Director Dr. François Bonnici, both adjunct faculty at the GSB, has been recognised by the Terry McAdam Book Award #TMAaward for “Changing the Way we Think” at the Alliance for Nonprofit Management conference #ANMConference2022.
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Solution Space e-Track programme update
Founded in 2014, the Solution Space at the UCT GSB is an ecosystem for high-impact early-stage start-ups and a research and development platform for corporates. Join us tomorrow, Friday 11 November for the second phase of the e-Track programme where entrepreneurs pitch their ventures for investment, development and collaboration.
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Helping African leaders stand out and stand tall
When Kurt De Bique went to university 20 years ago, he thought he wanted to be a lawyer. But a powerful interest in people and what drives them led to a career switch to HR, which has seen him make a major contribution in the boardroom – rather than courtroom.
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The UCT GSB put me on the career trajectory I’d been aspiring to
As Chief Research Officer for the Global Impact Investing Network, Dean Hand serves on the senior management team of a globally recognised and respected champion of impact investment, and is actively finding ways to steer more capital to life-changing projects around the globe.
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In search of purpose
With people quitting their jobs in greater numbers than ever, professional executive, team and board coach George Koshy shares from his own journey of ‘purpose finding’– and how he is empowering individuals, teams and organisations to find their purpose.
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Lessons Learnt: Advice for starting your career
Not many people can say they had to choose between completing their MBA and coaching the national female volleyball team, but Sean Lewis' career journey has been anything but linear. From high school teacher to working at Africa's leading premier ICT solutions services provider, and completing his EMBA along the way, Lewis has plenty of advice to share with graduates and career changers.
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International alumnus remains hopeful for change in South Africa
Despite challenges, South Africa continues to be an innovation hub with the capacity to develop the next generation of change makers. The UCT GSB's MBA programme attracts students from all walks of life that want ‘in’ on this journey.
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MTN CEO shares five secrets to a successful career
Failure, hard work, and belief in yourself and the people around you are the hallmarks of a successful leadership career, says Ralph Mupita, Group President and CEO at African telecommunications giant MTN.
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Servant leadership may be the key to talent retention post COVID
Nike strategy director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Aidan Kearney, believes servant leadership has so much to offer the corporate world, especially now as an increasing number of employees think of leaving their jobs in response to the stresses of the COVID-19 workplace.
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For tech to change Africa’s fortunes, we have to understand our context
Buhle Goslar, an MBA graduate from the UCT GSB, shows how business can use technology to make headway in Africa and turn around the continent’s digital and human fortunes.
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The role of entrepreneurs engaged in alleviating period poverty
Nishana Bhogal is a PhD candidate at the UCT GSB who has been awarded a Fulbright scholarship to pursue her research work on the role of entrepreneurs engaged in alleviating period poverty. We spoke to her about her research and what she plans to achieve while she is in the USA.
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Crisis ushers in new type of leadership – this time it must stick
The COVID-19 pandemic has tested leadership in ways that few crises have. How do we learn from it, adapt and evolve as leaders?
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Activists in the Boardroom holistic governance in an age of corporate malfeasance
Given the recent spate of corporate misconduct (think Steinhoff, EOH, the Guptas and various State-Owned Entities), more Boardroom activism is required to ensure accountability and prevent future scandals. Board directors should start by cultivating higher levels of self-awareness.
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How to build a thumb-stopping professional brand, without attending a single networking event, or cocktail party
LinkedIn, like many other social media platforms, experienced a boom over the pandemic. But it remains the ultimate platform for creating a professional brand that gets you noticed and hired, both locally and internationally.
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Applied with lots of elbow grease, the MBA continues to open doors
Joy-Mare de Wet was a qualified geneticist working in sales at a pharma company when she started her MBA at the UCT Graduate School of Business. There she found a new passion for the tech industry and has since landed her dream job at LinkedIn. De Wet shares her top five tips for what it takes, as an MBA graduate, to manage such a pivot.
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Annual Alumni Reunion Weekend to delve into how leaders are responding to global challenges with a multidisciplined approach
Join the UCT GSB 2021 Alumni Reunion Weekend in October to hear expert speakers discuss how to remain relevant while navigating uncertainty under the theme Knowledge Across Disciplines.
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Powering the continent’s growth through collaboration with entrepreneurs across Africa
EMBA alumnus Christophe Viarnaud is a man on a mission. The French national has made South Africa not only his home, but a country in which his passion for entrepreneurship and education has launched the ventures of scores of bright start-ups across the continent.
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MBA alumnus puts lockdown to good use
Steven van Rheede was part of the 2020 MBA class that, three months into the programme, quickly had to shift their studies online; it bore some unforeseen benefits, he says.
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Combining passion with purpose to improve science education for all
Bathabile Mpofu is passionate about empowering young people to become scientists, and with her business, Nkazimulo Applied Sciences, she aims to demonstrate to high school learners the beauty of science in an exciting, hands-on way.
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Taking the road less travelled is a choice we make
MBA alumna Mouna Akefli is not one to conform. Passionate about building a more diverse, inclusive and connected continent, she is determined to shake things up and her role as marketing manager for Ericsson in West Africa and Morocco is giving her new opportunities to do so.
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