"Let me start by saying this: your dreams are valid. Whatever challenges life throws your way, remember this: if your mind can conceive it, you can achieve it."
I won't start from the very beginning; I'll save that long history for another day. Instead, I'll take you straight to 1st September 2024, the day the UGO Fellowship 2024 cohort officially launched.
A Virtual Launch of Dreams
The journey began with a virtual opening ceremony. We officially met the 12 exceptional fellows, carefully selected from a pool of talented students. These young leaders come from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and have never flown or left their country before, a vital requirement of this transformative fellowship.
Through a competitive process, UGO, in partnership with the University of Venda, sought top-performing students pursuing studies in sustainability and green economy-related courses. Our vision was clear: to select individuals who dared to dream beyond their circumstances and provide them with a life-changing 90-day experience that would empower them as future leaders.
Program Structure and Impact
The UGO Fellowship is structured as an intensive 90-day program that combines theoretical learning with practical experience. Our fellows engage in five core modules, each designed to build essential skills and knowledge for future leaders in sustainability and community development.
Key Program Components:
- Personal Development and Ethical Leadership Training
- Social Entrepreneurship and Business Development
- Technology and Innovation in Sustainability
- Corporate Sustainability Strategies
- Community Development and Grassroots Transformation
UGO Fellowship Program Overview - 2024 Cohort
International Exposure.
A unique aspect of our fellowship is the international exposure component. Fellows will travel to Botswana for hands-on experience in sustainable development projects. This marks their first international journey, opening new horizons and perspectives.
Before departure, fellows undergo comprehensive protocol and etiquette training with DIRCO (Department of International Relations and Cooperation), preparing them for international engagement and cultural exchange.
Meet Our Expert Facilitators
Vhutali Nelwamondo
Personal Development and Ethical Leadership
AIME
Leading the first module focused on personal healing and potential discovery. Fellows described these sessions as therapeutic, helping them discover their true potential.
Nokumuka Libisi
Social Entrepreneurship
Onalome Changemakers
Guiding fellows in identifying and building business opportunities within their communities, with a focus on creating practical solutions for local challenges.
Dr. Rendani Mamphiswana
Technology and Innovation
NAFASI Water, 4IR Commissioner
As a 4IR Commissioner in South Africa, Dr. Mamphiswana leads sessions on emerging technologies, helping fellows understand both opportunities and risks in the tech landscape.
Portia Bangerezako
Sustainability
Corporate Sustainability Expert
Emphasizes practical strategies for integrating sustainability into daily life and community development, inspiring fellows to lead by example.
Ndivhuwo Khantshi
Community Development
Grassroots Transformation Expert
Leading the final module in Botswana, focusing on building resilient communities through participatory development and sustainable empowerment strategies.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the fellowship, our participants will have:
- Developed strong leadership and ethical decision-making skills
- Created viable social enterprise business plans
- Gained international exposure and cross-cultural competence
- Built a strong network of mentors and peers
- Acquired practical skills in sustainability and community development
Join Us in Making a Difference
We call on partners, organizations, and changemakers to join us in making the 2025 Cohort a reality. Let's work together to break barriers, transform lives, and build a brighter future.
You can support our mission by:
- Becoming a corporate partner
- Offering mentorship opportunities
- Providing internship placements
- Contributing to our fellowship fund