Mastercard Foundation Scholar Alumni Corner
University of Pretoria Program Alumni. Life after the Scholars Program.
Dr. Zainab Monisola Olaitan
Country: Nigeria
Post-Doctoral Fellow, Center for Human Rights, University of Pretoria
In 2019, I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to study for a Masters in Political Science at the University of Pretoria. During my time, I served as the pioneer editor of Leader X - a student-led magazine. In 2021, my social enterprise AfroTada was selected for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: UP Student Entrepreneurship Fund. It took me two years and six months to get my doctorate in Political science, which I began in 2021 and finished in June 2023.
Kevin Lubembe
Country: Kenya
Manager at Equity Bank Limited, Kenya
In 2019, I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to study for a Masters in Political Science at the University of Pretoria. During my time, I served as the pioneer editor of Leader X - a student-led magazine. In 2021, my social enterprise AfroTada was selected for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: UP Student Entrepreneurship Fund. It took me two years and six months to get my doctorate in Political science, which I began in 2021 and finished in June 2023.
Dr. John Lubaale
Country: Uganda
Research Fellow, Brunel University, United Kingdom
Coming from a home where both my parents were teachers, academics was very much the center of my childhood. I always wanted to be an academic and my family ensured they would support my dream. When I graduated with my first degree at Kyambogo University in Uganda, the plan was to be retained by the university and pursue my undergraduate degree and later a PhD, one that did not happen. My hope was renewed after two years of working when I got accepted at the University of Pretoria under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Joy Mathe
Country: South Africa
Process Engineer at Zutari, South Africa
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has truly given me a lot to be grateful for. Through the assistance of the Program, I was able to do my internship at Zutari. This allowed for a seamless transition into the world of work and gave me the confidence to be able to hit the ground running. I am currently working at Zutari as a Process Engineer.
Mariah Mbumba Kapindula
Country: Malawi
Founder: Project Mlatho, Malawi
I am part of the alumni community of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria. I founded Project Mlatho. Mlatho is a bridge in Chichewa. Through this project I aim to help women to compete as Members of Parliament or Councillors as we are preparing for elections next year. My target is 20 women spread from the north to the south. Specifically, those who are from rural communities. The project aims to find donors and/or sponsors for registration money for candidacy, campaign and capacity building that includes communications skills etc.
Thabang Lekhutle
Country: Lesotho
Assistant Audit Manager at Grant Thorton UK LLP, United Kingdom
I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in 2017, completing both my undergraduate degree in BCom Accounting Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting sciences in record time. This was made possible by the enormous support I received from both the Program’s staff and fellow Scholars. I was also the recipient of the UP Academic award (2017). The Program provided me with academic, financial and psychological support. One of my highlights while at the university was in 2018 when I was elected to be Scholar representative. The experience allowed me to showcase my leadership skills and enhance my people skills.
Jennifer Selasie King
Country: Ghana
Founder of Beyond Basics Merchandise, Ghana
I vividly recall the excitement I felt upon receiving the congratulatory message for being accepted into Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria for 2021 cohort. I instantly knew I was going to experience a major transformation in academics, personal growth, leadership, and other aspects. It's scary to start a master's degree, particularly distant from home, but having a supporting community helped. The Program made sure I never felt alone, whether via mentoring, counselling, or a network of peers who knew what I was going through.
Dr. Clarity Mapengo
Country: Zimbabwe
Lecturer and Research Scientist at Teesside University, United Kingdom
In 2015, I embarked on my UP journey with the prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, delving into an MSc in Food science. The experience refined my expertise and expanded my network, positioning me to contribute more meaningfully to transforming food systems. Post-MSc, the path ahead was uncertain & with so many obstacles, but with sheer resilience and guidance + moral support from mentors like Dr. Grace Ramafi and my former HOD Prof. Gyebi Duodu, I fought my way through. In 2020 I graduated from UP with a PhD & my sanity still prevailing.
Timothy Mwesigwa
Country: Uganda
Consultant, Aspect Advisory GmBH, Uganda
Joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2017 Cohort was a pivotal moment in my university journey. Beyond the comprehensive academic, financial, and emotional support, it fostered a vibrant community of driven individuals from various backgrounds, united in their pursuit of excellence and impact. As an international student in South Africa, this network was instrumental in my success, extending its value into my professional and personal life through lasting friendships and professional connections. The Program is much more than financial support—it's a lifelong community.
Elma Akob
Country: Cameroon
Candidate for a PhD in Corporate Sustainability at the University of Pretoria
I completed my Honours degree in Communication management and Masters degree in Strategic Business management as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Corporate Sustainability at 24 years old. As a Scholar, I looked forward to being involved and gaining access to all the valuable resources the Program had to offer me. I initiated the scholars executive committee to highlight and recognise scholars displaying leadership qualities and to give scholars an opportunity to practise voting in a democratic election; a process that not everyone has access to int their home countries.
Koketso Mbewe
Country: South Africa
Regional Lead for Africa with the Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA), South Africa
Advancing my studies with the support of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has opened many doors, one of which was the opportunity to pursue a second Masters’degree (Master in Management) from IE Business School in Spain. I am currently Regional Lead for Africa with the Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA), a policy reform institute that connects youth from across the globe through international conferences, facilitating dialogues, idea-sharing, and collaboration among these global youth. I am a graduate in Industrial Engineering Honours and Industrial Engineering Masters (distinction), both from the University of Pretoria, made possible by the incredible and comprehensive Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Chibuike Emmanuel Daraojimba
Country: Nigeria
Corporate Finance Analyst at Moshe Capital Proprietary Limited, South Africa
My journey with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the University of Pretoria began in 2017. Beginning with a BSc (Hons) in Technology Management, I quickly progressed to an MSc in Technology and Innovation Management. During this period, I demonstrated leadership as Treasurer and Chairperson of the Nigerian Students Society, and excelled in initiatives like the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung leadership program and the Generation Africa Initiative. Transitioning to the corporate world, I gained a global perspective through internships facilitated by the Foundation. These included roles as an Information Technology Analyst at Value Seeds Limited, Nigeria, and as a Business Intelligence Analyst at Songhai Advisory, London.
Genevivie Ankunda
Country: Uganda
Research Officer at the SLOCAT Partnership for Sustainable Low Carbon Transport, Uganda
I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria in 2021. In addition to the intellectual enlightenment that came with completing a postgraduate degree and scientific research in a world-class Engineering Faculty, the programme challenged me to think critically and dream big, inherently preparing me for my current job on the global level. Graduating from my BEngHons (Transportation Engineering) with distinction enabled me to win an internship, and eventually a role as a Research Officer at the SLOCAT Partnership for Sustainable Low Carbon Transport, an international multistakeholder partnership powering systemic transformations.
Sospeter Kaaya
Country: Tanzania
Risk Assurance Associate at PwC, Tanzania
As 2019 cohort of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, I graduated with distinction, earning a Bachelor's in Financial Sciences in 2021 and pursued further education with an Honours in Internal Auditing in 2022. Throughout my academic journey, the Program provided invaluable financial and emotional support, enabling me to focus on my studies and excel. I was honoured to receive a total of 15 academic awards and prizes, including the prestigious IAEP Advisory Board Prize for best overall performance in Honours degree of Internal Auditing, Dean’s list award for academic excellence in bachelor degree of commerce in financial sciences. Currently employed as a Risk Assurance Associate at PwC Tanzania.
Tshiamo Setuke
Country: South Africa
PhD candidate at the University of Pretoria, South Africa
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has profoundly impacted my life, catalysing both personal and academic growth. The financial support, awarded as a recognition of academic excellence, alleviated financial burdens, enabling me to focus on my studies and pursue further education at the doctoral level. Through the Program, I gained valuable internship experiences in collaboration with leading companies, which exposed me to AI design and unlocked hidden creative talents. Beyond academics, the Program facilitated my professional development through mentorship programs and internship opportunities.
Lilian Kafuko
Country: Uganda
UP - Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Intern
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is an epitome of hope to many. As a 2016 Mastercard Foundation Scholar alumna, with great pride, I assert that the Program afforded me incalculable opportunities. The Program supported my academic journey from undergraduate level through to the completion of my master's degree. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Food science at the University of Pretoria with a focused intent on leveraging my expertise to address the critical issues of global hunger. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am presently serving as an intern within the Program at UP, where I support the team by assisting with various day-to-day tasks, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Program's operations.
Daniel Sesay
Country: Sierra Leone
Assistant lecturer at the University of Makeni, Sierra Leone
I am a Mastercard Foundation Scholar Alum from 2020-2021 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. I studied a BA Honors in International Relations. During my course of study at the University of Pretoria, I was considered one of the most hardworking scholars in the faculty of Humanities. However, some of the key challenges that I faced while studying at the University of Pretoria were the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–2021, which affected me and the university as a whole. I arrived at the peak of the pandemic in South Africa, and UP suspended all physical lectures and moved to online learning. With all the challenges, I was able to attend all lectures and pass all mandatory and optional modules at UP.
Jonathan Odingo
Jonathan Odingo
Epidemiologist and Study Coordinator at Doctors Without Borders, Kenya
Timing is everything! When I felt trapped, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offered me a life-changing opportunity. During my time at UP, I pursued an Honours degree in Human Cell Biology and a Master’s in Anatomy. Navigating career complexities can be daunting, especially when they diverge from academic paths. Fortunately, the internship program gave me several options. Immersed in ‘deep science,’ I wanted to improve public health. The Program helped me co-author a universal health coverage study at an Oxford-based consulting firm. Later, I began investigating paediatric surgical outcomes at Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
Genevivie Ankunda
Country: Uganda
Research Officer at the SLOCAT Partnership for Sustainable Low Carbon Transport, Uganda
I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria in 2021. In addition to the intellectual enlightenment that came with completing a postgraduate degree and scientific research in a world-class Engineering Faculty, the programme challenged me to think critically and dream big, inherently preparing me for my current job on the global level. Graduating from my BEngHons (Transportation Engineering) with distinction enabled me to win an internship, and eventually a role as a Research Officer at the SLOCAT Partnership for Sustainable Low Carbon Transport, an international multistakeholder partnership powering systemic transformations.
Sospeter Kaaya
Country: Tanzania
Risk Assurance Associate at PwC, Tanzania
As 2019 cohort of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, I graduated with distinction, earning a Bachelor's in Financial Sciences in 2021 and pursued further education with an Honours in Internal Auditing in 2022. Throughout my academic journey, the Program provided invaluable financial and emotional support, enabling me to focus on my studies and excel. I was honoured to receive a total of 15 academic awards and prizes, including the prestigious IAEP Advisory Board Prize for best overall performance in Honours degree of Internal Auditing, Dean’s list award for academic excellence in bachelor degree of commerce in financial sciences. Currently employed as a Risk Assurance Associate at PwC Tanzania.
Tshiamo Setuke
Country: South Africa
PhD candidate at the University of Pretoria, South Africa
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has profoundly impacted my life, catalysing both personal and academic growth. The financial support, awarded as a recognition of academic excellence, alleviated financial burdens, enabling me to focus on my studies and pursue further education at the doctoral level. Through the Program, I gained valuable internship experiences in collaboration with leading companies, which exposed me to AI design and unlocked hidden creative talents. Beyond academics, the Program facilitated my professional development through mentorship programs and internship opportunities.
Lilian Kafuko
Country: Uganda
UP - Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Intern
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is an epitome of hope to many. As a 2016 Mastercard Foundation Scholar alumna, with great pride, I assert that the Program afforded me incalculable opportunities. The Program supported my academic journey from undergraduate level through to the completion of my master's degree. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Food science at the University of Pretoria with a focused intent on leveraging my expertise to address the critical issues of global hunger. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am presently serving as an intern within the Program at UP, where I support the team by assisting with various day-to-day tasks, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Program's operations.
Daniel Sesay
Country: Sierra Leone
Assistant lecturer at the University of Makeni, Sierra Leone
I am a Mastercard Foundation Scholar Alum from 2020-2021 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. I studied a BA Honors in International Relations. During my course of study at the University of Pretoria, I was considered one of the most hardworking scholars in the faculty of Humanities. However, some of the key challenges that I faced while studying at the University of Pretoria were the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–2021, which affected me and the university as a whole. I arrived at the peak of the pandemic in South Africa, and UP suspended all physical lectures and moved to online learning. With all the challenges, I was able to attend all lectures and pass all mandatory and optional modules at UP.
Jonathan Odingo
Country: Kenya
Epidemiologist and Study Coordinator at Doctors Without Borders, Kenya
Timing is everything! When I felt trapped, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offered me a life-changing opportunity. During my time at UP, I pursued an Honours degree in Human Cell Biology and a Master’s in Anatomy. Navigating career complexities can be daunting, especially when they diverge from academic paths. Fortunately, the internship program gave me several options. Immersed in ‘deep science,’ I wanted to improve public health. The Program helped me co-author a universal health coverage study at an Oxford-based consulting firm. Later, I began investigating paediatric surgical outcomes at Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
Dennis A Richgates
Country: Uganda
Public Financial Management Associate at Genesis Analytics, Uganda
I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in 2018 where I earned three degrees in Economics within a span of five years. During my time at UP, I served as a Mastercard Scholar representative and contributed as a Teaching Assistant in the economics department. The Program opened doors for invaluable opportunities, including a year-long internship at Genesis Analytics. Since then, I've been privileged to witness rapid career growth, securing two promotions within just over a year at the company.
As an Associate in Public Financial Management at Genesis Analytics, I collaborate with countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, East Asia, and Latin America to increase domestic income, lead PFM changes, and find funding for human development, collaborating with partners like UNICEF, the World Bank, and WHO.
Jane Akura
Country: Kenya
Water Engineer-Bio Engineering Africa Limited, South Africa
As 2014 Mastercard Foundation Scholar civil engineering alumni, ten years later, I can proudly say that the Program gave me immeasurable opportunities. I am now a practising civil engineer at Bio Engineering Africa Ltd, South Africa, specializing in different sectors of water, allowing me to work in different projects in different African countries. By equipping me with education and thereafter finances, the Scholars Program has allowed me to financially uplift my immediate family and community, get local and international travel opportunities which I document on “Akura Closet Raid” YouTube channel thus providing knowledge to other tourists and bringing awareness to African tourism.
Joseph Zinhle Moyo
Country: Zimbabwe
MSc candidate in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at Edge Hill University, UK
I joined the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria in 2016 to pursue a BEng degree in chemical engineering. In addition to offering extensive financial, emotional and academic assistance, the Program fostered a vibrant community of ambitious people from many backgrounds who were all committed to making a difference and achieving great things. This network was important to my success as an international student in South Africa; it provided me with lifelong friends and invaluable professional contacts that have enriched my career and personal life. I am currently studying towards a masters degree in data science and artificial intelligence, specialising in reinforcement learning and computer vision.
Justine Geraldine Nanfuka
Country: Uganda
Civil Engineer with Queensland and Leeds Consulting Engineers, Uganda
I am Nanfuka Justine Geraldine, a practising Civil Engineer with Queensland and Leeds Consulting Engineers based in Uganda and Texas (USA). I also double as an Assistant Lecturer for Hydrology at Muteesa Royal University in Kampala. In 2021, I joined the University of Pretoria under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for my master’s in engineering management. Studying far from home was challenging, but the Mastercard Foundation Pretoria community provided unwavering support. The additional courses on Leadership and Navigating the workplace continue to benefit me. During my Masters, I qualified for the ERASMUS International Semester student exchange program in Spain, which significantly contributed to landing my current job. If you ever get the chance, seize it with both hands!