Congratulations to Dr Mamokgethi Phakeng on winning the WOMEN IN TECH®- Global Movement Africa's Life Time Achievement Award.

Congratulations to Dr Mamokgethi Phakeng on winning the WOMEN IN TECH®- Global Movement Africa's Life Time Achievement Award.

After being aware of her from the point that she took her role as UCT Vice Chancellor and having been a life-time member of the 3 am squad, I had the opportunity to facilitate a Leadership Conversation hosted by the Ekurhuleni Black Management Forum branch in April 2021. We had a meeting to prepare for the conversation and later had the interactive conversation with an engaged audience. Both were amazing interactions.

The lasting impression that I got was of someone with incredible energy, an amazing commitment to building the nation through building others and a humility together with an openness that was surprising for someone who had achieved so much despite the obstacles that she had faced. She shared of herself and her wisdom with us, as her audience, so generously and so passionately that we left the conversation feeling nurtured. That evening with us was an extension of the work that she had been doing as "Deputy Mother" - building, enabling, supporting and fortifying.

A such, I congratulate her on this amazing accolade. Dr Phakeng, South Africa's children have gained so much from all that you have given whether on campus, on social media or the various engagements at which you have given of your energy, experience and wisdom. Thank you.

The awards were hosted by Women in Tech South Africa in Cape Town last night, who from all reports did an incredible job.

Video Credit: Rorisang Mzozoyana

​This post was originally posted on LinkedIn in October 2023