The University of the Witwatersrand’s Great Hall was a scene of pride and accomplishment this December as the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) celebrated a distinguished group of graduates whose work promises to reshape the field of African philanthropy and social investment. From 10 to 12 December 2025, Wits conferred degrees on doctoral and Master of Management students whose research and leadership reflect CAPSI’s growing influence across the continent.
Among this year’s PhD cohort was Dr Lloyd Tawanda Derengi, whose research examined how corporate social responsibility (CSR) can reduce socioeconomic, environmental, and reputational risks in South Africa’s retail sector. Drawing on work conducted across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, his findings highlight CSR as a strategic tool that strengthens stakeholder relationships, enhances employee well-being, and supports sustainable business performance.
Dr Hanna Atieno Ondiek’s research explored how women social entrepreneurs in Nairobi advance economic and social empowerment. Guided by empowerment theory, the capability approach and African feminist lenses, her study demonstrates how innovation, collective networks and negotiated agency open new pathways to autonomy, participation and opportunity for urban Kenyan women.
In Ghana, Dr Shaibu Salifu examined philanthropy’s role in advancing women’s economic empowerment through three empirical essays. His work analysed how corporate foundations drive women’s financial inclusion, how philanthropic initiatives influence labour participation, and how Ubuntu-inspired giving shapes inclusive development. His research offers practical insights for strengthening gender-responsive philanthropic practice in African contexts.
Dr Emmanuel Marfo, whose doctoral work focused on Faith-Based Philanthropy, reflected on a transformative academic journey that deepened both his scholarly and practical commitment to Africa’s development. “My PhD experience strengthened my capacity in critical analysis, strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based decision-making,” he shared. “Through my research, I saw how faith institutions—often the closest and most trusted in communities—are using strategic investments to advance jobs, education, agriculture and social welfare. This PhD has empowered me to contribute meaningfully to building stronger and more accountable philanthropic ecosystems across Africa.”
The Master of Management in African Philanthropy programme also celebrated its 2025 graduates: Pauline Wanja Kamau, Juliet Bvekwa, Lerato Mashianoke and Fortunate Nyemba. The programme, the first of its kind on the continent, continues to prepare professionals for leadership across philanthropy, development and social investment.
Graduate Lerato Mashianoke, who completed her degree with distinction, expressed deep appreciation for her academic journey.
“I’m super grateful to CAPSI for being my academic home. I think I’m one of the few people who actually practice what they study. I’m currently a Programme Manager, where I lead the work for Africa and the Middle East. Through the work that I’ve learnt at CAPSI, I’ve been able to improve and transform my grant-making and to strengthen feminist practice within the philanthropy space. Part of my research also helps those who want to advance feminist philanthropy in their institutions. As I grow my PhD, it will focus on providing examples of African feminist funds that have provided feminist financial support to women in their communities.”
The December 2025 graduation season marks a significant moment for CAPSI and for the advancement of African-led philanthropy scholarship. The research produced by this year’s graduates contributes new knowledge on women’s empowerment, CSR, social entrepreneurship, faith-based giving, philanthropy’s role in driving access to labour markets, and community-driven development. Their work reflects the values that have guided CAPSI for nearly a decade: rigorous research, grounded African knowledge, and a commitment to strengthening the continent’s philanthropic and social investment landscape.
As the curtains close on the 2025 graduation season, CAPSI celebrates the achievements, resilience and promise of its graduates. Their scholarship and leadership will continue to shape communities, institutions and policy across Africa. Wits Business School and CAPSI extend their warmest congratulations to each graduate — and look forward to the impact they will make in the years ahead.
“Congratulations to all our December 2025 graduates. Your journey of influence, contribution, and shaping of African philanthropy has only just begun,” says, Professor Jacob Mati, who is the Deputy Director at CAPSI.
