Ex-Kimberlite and St Boniface High School alumni Thebe Ikalafeng was conferred a second honorary doctorate by Unisa. Picture: Supplied
EX-KIMBERLITE Thebe Ikalafeng, who is the founder and chairperson of Brand SA, was conferred a second honorary doctorate by the University of South Africa during a graduation ceremony in Pretoria last month.
Unisa senior media relations officer Tommy Huma said the Council of Unisa awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (Honoris Causa) on Ikalafeng, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to learning, contributions and business accomplishments.
“Ikalafeng has garnered recognition for his advocacy of a brand-led African renaissance, with his influence recognised by prestigious publications and organisations such as New African Magazine, Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) and Reputation Poll International. His unwavering commitment to shaping a positive narrative for Africa has left an indelible imprint on the continent’s branding landscape.”
He added that as the founder of Africa Brand Leadership Academy (ABLA), Ikalafeng was the champion of the Africa-focused brand on a global stage.
“Ikalafeng is a Chartered Marketer (SA), with a Bachelor of Science (1992) and Masters in Business Administration (1993) degrees from Marquette University in the USA, specialising in marketing. He also holds a Masters in Law (LLM) degree (2021) in intellectual property from the University of Turin in Italy, offered in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland. His commitment to continuous learning is also demonstrated by his completion of executive education programmes with Wits University and the Harvard Business School.”
Acting executive dean of the College of Economic and Management Sciences Dr Mantepu MaseTshaba commended him for his continuous commitment and contribution to learning and shaping a positive narrative for the African continent.
“His achievements include extensive and diverse public and private sector directorships at Mercantile Bank, WWF South Africa and South African Tourism. He also served on the board of Brand South Africa and Nike South Africa.
Accepting the honorary doctorate, Ikalafeng stated that he was humbled.
“Forty years after leaving my Kimberley to seek a place for myself in the world, my journey has led me to this great university.”
Ikalafeng was also awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Johannesburg on March 19.