Convocation Exco Nominees 2025

Miss Ammaarah Maal

Educational Qualifications

University of Witwatersrand:
Bachelor of Education (with Distinction)
Honours in Education (with Distinction)
Master of Education (with Distinction)
PhD – to register for the January 2026 intake

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I am a three-time distinction graduate from the Wits Faculty of Education, currently serving as a sessional lecturer in Education and contributing to the Academic Development Unit in the Faculty of Engineering, where I support first-year students in their transition to university learning. I will be pursuing my PhD in Education in January 2026.

I see the Convocation as a vital space for shaping the future of Wits through inclusive dialogue and meaningful alumni engagement. As someone deeply committed to student support and academic excellence, I am motivated to contribute to a community that values transparency and the lived experiences of its graduates. I believe Convocation can be a powerful platform for bridging institutional vision with grassroots insight and I am eager to be part of that work!

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

I have three academic publications to my name, co-authored with my lecturers and presented at the ICERI and INTED international educational conferences.

Ms Innocentia Mahlangu

Educational Qualifications

MBA Maastricht School of Management, Netherlands, 2024
Project Management Professional, Project Management Institute, 2019
Professional Engineer, ECSA, 2018
MSc Civil Engineering, Wits University, 2018
BSc Civil Engineering, Wits University, 2011

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I am an award-winning and globally recognized civil engineer and Project Manager with extensive experience in executing projects across the mining, construction and industrial sectors. As a proud Wits alumna, I see the Convocation role as an opportunity to bridge the gap between alumni, industry and the university, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. I am passionate about empowering future leaders as well as women in STEM, AND I believe this platform can amplify voices that are often underrepresented.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

• Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans, 2018
• Winner SAICE Young Engineer of the year JHB & National Finalist 2019
• Accenture’s Rising Star Awards, 2020
• Inspiring Fifty South Africa, 2020
• PMI Future 50 Honoree, 2001
• Standard Bank Top Women Award Finalist – Young Achiever & 1st Runner Up – Women in Science, 2021
• SAICE President Award 2021
• Gender Mainstreaming Awards – Construction & Industrials, 2022
• PMI – Global Rising Leader Award, 2022
• Fellow at SAICE, 2023
• Global top 100 women in mining – WIM100, 2024
• FAEO, Excellence Award, 2025
• PMI Construction Professional Ambassador, 2025
• Vice President, SAICE, 2025

Dr Dawn Mahlobo

Educational Qualifications

Dr Dawn Mahlobo holds a PHD in climatology from Wits University and a Postgraduate Diploma in higher education, reflecting her commitment to teaching and knowledge transfer. She also completed postdoctoral research at Wits’ Global Change Institute on wet-dry seasonality onset in Africa.

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

Dr Mahlobo, Senior Manager for Climate Service at the South African Weather Service (SAWS), leads national efforts in climate data, research, and information services. She has been instrumental in high-profile projects, including the development of South Africa’s national climate change scenarios, which guide policy and adaptation strategies under the Climate Change Act.

A former Wits lecturer with extensive experience building partnerships across government, academia, and the private sector, she serves as a bridge between science, policy, and education. Through the Executive Committee of Convocation, she is motivated to contribute to her leadership and governance expertise to strengthen alumni engagement, promote academic excellence, and reinforce Wit’s role in shaping responses to national and global challenges.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

Dr Mahlobo has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and has acted as a reviewer for leading international publications. She also served as an expert reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Through these contributions, she continues to influence both academic and applied climate science communities while advancing South Africa’s standing in global climate discourse.

Mr Andani Makhado

Educational Qualifications

I hold a Bachelor of Accounting Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy (CTA), both from the University of Witwatersrand, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Practice from Henley Business School. I am a Chartered Accountant (SA), admitted to SAICA in 2018, having passed both professional board exams on the first attempt.

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I currently serve as a Financial Operations Manager at HG&H Pharmaceuticals, leading financial strategy, compliance, and governance. Previously, I held leadership roles at Multichoice and HL Hall, where I managed finance teams, streamlined reporting processes, and strengthened internal controls. I completed my articles at BDO South Africa, where I gained broad industry exposure and qualified for early completion due to performance excellence. I believe this role offers an opportunity to give back to Wits by contributing my governance and financial expertise to strengthen Convocation, deepen alumni engagement, and support initiatives that will empower future generations.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

Achievements include Multichoice Group Finance Employee of the Year (2023), BDO Quarterly Values Winner (2016), and multiple Golden Key nominations. I am a proud member of SAICA and remain committed to continuous professional development.

Dr Mukundi Masakona

Educational Qualifications

University of Witwatersrand:
2025: Diploma Obstetrics (current)
2022: MBBCh
2018: BHSc (Hons) Physiology (with distinction)
2017: BSc Biological Sciences

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

2023-2025: Medical doctor
2022: Wits medicine graduation committee
2021: SRC fundraising subcommittee
2020: Medical students council subcommittee
2018: Laboratory tutor

As a prospective member of the convocation executive, I aspire to lend my voice to discussions surrounding university development and the enhancement of the Wits brand. I aim to be a catalyst for meaningful change within the Wits community, by fostering a stronger sense of belonging and unity between current and past students. Collaboration within the Wits alumni for the good of future generations is of great significance to me, as it will have a far-reaching impact on society at large. My connection with the Health Sciences student body has already been established through my medical school blog. This platform has garnered attention from students worldwide, enabling me to engage with a diverse, international audience. It is a testament to my ability to bridge geographical and cultural gaps in the pursuit of knowledge and collaboration.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

2025: SAMA intern 101 author for the 2025 booklet
2020: Undergraduate university council merit scholarship
Medical students council: student affairs and academics subcommittee
2018: Postgraduate merit award
2018: BHSc (Hons) physiology with distinction
2017: Certificate of first class in- field methods in terrestrial ecology III, human physiology III
2013: People to people health and leadership summit, Baltimore, Maryland USA

Professor Robert McCutcheon

Educational Qualifications

University of the Witwatersrand – BSc (Eng) Civil, 1963; GDE 1964
University of Sussex – MSc 1972; DPhil 1980

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

Convocation’s role is "to discuss and state its opinion on any matter relating to the University". I commit to abide by the rules and objectives governing EXCO. On EXCO I will continue to listen and contribute to the relevance of Wits in SA and internationally. I support Wits’ assiduous endeavours to improve the quality of undergraduate education and the undergraduate experience, including interdisciplinary work and social engagement (both serious and fun).

2008 - date: Professor Emeritus, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Wits.
1987 - 2007: Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering. 1994 - 2000: Head of School.
2002 - 2006: Visiting Professor, Loughborough, UK.
Successful supervision: 10 PhDs; 55 MSc (Eng).
Since 1964: Civil engineering and development endeavours in UK, Southern and East Africa, Iran; consultancies include ILO, World Bank, UNCTAD. Low-income housing. Employment generation and skills development in construction and maintenance of infrastructure; particularly low-cost, low-volume roads/stormwater drainage.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

• Married to Carol; three sons: Keir, Ian, Martin (Wits graduates)
• Fellow: SAICE; SA Academy of Engineering; UK Institution of Civil Engineers. PrEng; CEng.
• 1994-2022: Contributed to formulation, implementation and evaluation of SA’s National / Expanded Public Works Programmes.
• 1969/70: Chairman, South African Voluntary Service (SAVS)
• 1962/63: Member, Wits SRC.

Mr Clifford Danelson Mkansi

Educational Qualifications

BA in International Relations and Political Science (Wits)
Advanced Certificate in Risk, Compliance, and Governance (Wits)
Currently completing my final year of LLB while studying Engineering and Construction Law
Applied for an LLM in Corporate Law (Wits)

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I currently serve as a Technical Security Solution Officer at Wits University, where I manage access control systems and ensure compliance with security protocols. Previously, I demonstrated my operational skills as a Database & Systems Operator for Wits Alumni Relations. I'm no stranger to student leadership and governance, having served as Student Life Chairperson and worked closely with SRC structures. I’ve also contributed to various university initiatives through roles with Dial-A-Student and as a Graduations Usher. Beyond campus, I’ve furthered my community engagement by tutoring high school students and working as a qualified motivational speaker.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

Qualified motivational speaker
Advisor to Djuma Game Reserve & Eurolab
Founder of a sustainable Agri-Business
Career Lead Mentor

Mr Maite Barnard Molokomme

Educational Qualifications

MSc Building – University of Witwatersrand (2022)
BTech. Construction Management – Tshwane University of Technology (2015)
National Diploma Building – University of Johannesburg (2010)
PGD Project Management – Mancosa (2018)
Current: PGD Business Administration (UP-GIBS, 2025–2026)

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I am a certified Construction and Project Management Professional (PrCPM, PMP®) with more than 14 years experience in infrastructure delivery, facilities management, and housing projects within the public sector. My professional journey includes senior leadership roles at the Department of Correctional Services, the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure, and CoGHSTA, where I successfully directed and delivered large-scale projects valued at over R1 billion.

Academically, I hold an MSc in Building (Wits University), a BTech in Construction Management (TUT), and a PGD in Project Management (Mancosa), and I am currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration at GIBS (UP) to strengthen my leadership capacity. I also serve on the SACPCMP Tribunal Committee and lead youth development initiatives through the Malebogo Apostolic Youth Organization, which is NPO.

As a member of the convocation, I will focus on building stronger alumni relations, mobilising support for institutional growth, and advancing transformation, inclusivity, and excellence within the university.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

Led multi-million-rand projects exceeding R1 billion; recognised for excellence in governance and delivery. SACPCMP Tribunal Committee Member (2024–2026) and President of MAYO, advancing youth empowerment.

Professor Shepherd Mpofu

Educational Qualifications

PhD Media Studies (Wits)
MA Film and TV (Wits)
Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education and Training (UFH)
BSc Journalism and Media Studies (NUST)
Executive and Management Coaching (UCT)

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

I am an academic and alumnus of the University of the Witwatersrand. I am currently a professor of media and communication science at the University of South Africa. I have over 15 years experience in the academic field where I have been involved in research, teaching and running departmental/faculty (sub)committees. I have presented my research in more than ten countries globally, including being invited as a keynote speaker. I have also served in a number of academic editorial boards for leading academic journals such as Digital Journalism, Convergence and Journal of Global Diaspora and Media.  As a committed Witsie, the university remains important to me and indeed to the global community and I therefore think this is an opportune moment for me to be involved in advancing this brand. It is through the convocation, an important body in the university, that I may able to contribute meaningfully to assisting, supporting and contributing to the university’s intellectual culture, its other spheres and supporting the Convocation President and any other university committees committed to advancing Wits's mission.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

I am an NRF rated research member of professional and academic bodies such as SACOMM, ICA, IAMCR, Golden Key and international Association of Genocide Studies. I have over 50 academic publications and have edited 9 academic book volumes.

Miss Rumbidzayi Munyaradzi

Educational Qualifications

Bachelor of Commerce, Finance & Economics (2007) from the University of the Witwatersrand
Executive Masters, Digital Transformation & Innovation (2021) from IE University, Spain

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

My Work:
Independent Non-Executive Director, Tyme Bank (since 2025)
Fintech executive focusing on mobile wallet solutions (2021 to date)
Executive Director, Debt Capital Markets at J.P Morgan Chase Bank (2008 – 2020)
Author: self-published 2 books for young adults regarding personal development and career strategy. “The Gen Z Pocketbook for Teenage Girls” and “Your Guide to Adulting” are in over 20 schools, the latter was nominated for the Best Non-Fiction at the Zimbabwe’s 2025 National Arts Merit Awards.

Desired Distribution:
Working with the university leadership, there are 3 significant elements I’d like to focus on during my tenure if appointed:

• Effective mentorship that equips students with fulfilling career strategies, and the agility needed for multiple career transitions;
• A deep alumni network that is interested and invested in the wellbeing of the community and the university, including inspiring alumni to serve as mentors to current students;
• Help to inspire great ambassadorship amongst alumni, demonstrating the power of a Wits education to current and future students.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

Certified Director, Institute of Directors South Africa since 2023

Ms Nondumiso Nonkululeko Radebe

Educational Qualifications

University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg · 2020 · Master of Commerce: Local Economic Development
Milpark Business School, Johannesburg, GP • 2017 · Postgraduate Diploma: Business Administration
University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, GP • 2013 · Honours Degree: Urban and Regional Planning
University of The Witwatersrand 2007 · Bachelor of Science (BSC): Urban and Regional Planning

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

Innovative and strategic leader with 10+ years’ experience embedding sustainability, ESG, and CSR into corporate strategy and culture. Skilled in building frameworks from scratch, driving organizational change, and delivering measurable impact. Recognised for inspiring teams, aligning initiatives with business goals, and strengthening stakeholder relationships to enhance reputation and community development.

As a proud Wits graduate, I see convocation as more than recognition; it is a transition where knowledge becomes leadership and impact. It reminds alumni of our duty to apply learning meaningfully, balancing business priorities with environmental and social progress and to inspire future leaders.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

• Speaker at the Institute of Quarrying on, “Redressing Past Imbalances through the Social Labour Plan".
• Speaker at the Annual - Women in Mining Conference on, "Discussing on how you can Contribute to Socio Economic empowerment of Mining Communities".
• Speaker at the Annual Social and Labour Plan Conference on, "Looking at Ways to Excite Socio Economic Development and Local Economic Development for the Long Term".
• Co-authored the academic article “Effectiveness of the Local Economic Development Strategy of Emakhazeni Local Municipality, South Africa”, published in AB Academies, examining the impacts and outcomes of local economic development initiatives in Emakhazeni. 

Mr Etienne Rübbers

Educational Qualifications

I obtained my BSc (Chemical Engineering) degree (cum laude) in 1993 from Wits.
I also have a MSc (Industriele Befrijskunde) (cum laude) from the University of Leuven (Belgium), BCom (Hons) from UNISA, and I am a CFA Charterholder.

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

My 27-year career has been largely in the energy sector. I was with Sasol for 20 years where I held various senior roles such as the Head: Mergers & Acquisitions and Chief Commercial Advisor. I see the key aspect of the role as helping to guide Wits to remain a world class university and improve its ratings relative to other international universities. Unfortunately, over the last 20 years, Wits’ ranking has dropped significantly.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

1. I have also run the Comrades Marathon twice, cycled the 94.7 cycle race twice, climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, and hitchhiked from South Africa to Zanzibar and back.
2. SAIPPA Management Committee (South African IPP Association) (2019-present).
3. SANEA Board (SA National Energy Association) (2022-2024).
4. Publication: E Rubbers, H Kister (2019) “Distillation reboiler start-up can pose challenges: future designs can benefit from the lessons that were learned via a well-planned investigation of this start-up problem”, Chemical Engineering (Vol. 111, Issue 2).

Mr Paul Taylor

Educational Qualifications

University of the Witwatersrand – Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering 1962
UNISA – Master of Business Leadership 1974

Professional background and a motivation on how you see the role

Partner: Hawkins Hawkins & Osborn Consulting Engineers 1972 – 1990
Chairman H.H. & O (North) 1990 – 2002
Director GIBB (Engineering & Science) 2002 – 2012

I have served 2 terms of office on Convocation Exco since 2015 and have gained substantial insight into the complex workings of this 100-year-old institution. I wish to continue in this role and to provide graduate input into the university management.

Other achievements/professional bodies/publications etc

• Pr Eng. 703364 M.SAICE
• C. Eng  & MICE (London)
• Professional paper presented to SA Annual Transportation Conference 1978
• Professional paper presented to SA Institute of Waste Management 1982