09/09/2026
More than 1 400 aspiring and current student leaders came together this past weekend for MatiesLead Phase 2, under the theme: Building a Campus to Build a Nation.
The programme kicked off with an inspiring keynote address by Namatai Kwekweza, founder and Regional Director of WELEAD Africa, a member of the UN Youth4Rights Advisory Group, 2025 Friedrich Naumann German Africa Award recipient and 2024 Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize winner. As a Pan-African feminist, human rights activist and advocate for constitutionalism, youth empowerment and women’s rights, Kwekweza encouraged student leaders to think about the role they can play in shaping more inclusive, just and democratic societies.
On the second day, student leaders heard from Khule Duma, Portfolio Lead for Partnerships and Programmes in the Private Office of President Cyril Ramaphosa. Duma is responsible for driving digital transformation reforms in the public sector through Operation Vulindlela, as well as coordinating the Government-Business Partnership across the energy, logistics, and crime and corruption focal areas. A Stellenbosch University graduate, Duma brought valuable insights into leadership, public service and creating impact beyond the university environment.
From 4 to 6 September, student leaders spent three days developing the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead, and to do so TOGETHER.
Their training covered a wide range of topics, including:
🌍 Multilingualism and creating welcoming cultures
🤝 Gender diversity, inclusion and intercultural competence
♿ Disability awareness
🎓 Building alumni connections for long-term community impact
🏛️ Leadership in governance structures
📱 Social media and communications
💙 Positive masculinity
🚨 Crisis readiness
💰 Finance and financial literacy
🌱 Social impact
🧠 Emotional intelligence and mentorship
Because student leadership is about more than holding a position or having a title. It is about how we show up, how we engage with others, and how we use our leadership to create positive change.
