'60% of education is what you make of it': Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng
Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng shared hope, inspiration, and the importance of education on The Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp ahead of the 3rd annual MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast, taking place on 1 October 2025 at the Vodacom Dome, Vodacom Midrand.
Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp sat down with Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng, a prominent businesswoman and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town.
The conversation centred on the themes of education, empowerment, and legacy, all of which Prof. Phakeng will explore further at the upcoming MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast.
Legacy and empowerment
Prof. Phakeng emphasised the importance of being intentional with one's life and creating a legacy.
She stated, "Your life, day by day, you're creating a legacy. It doesn't have to be a burden, but it can be a joy."
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She encouraged listeners to own their life stories, adding: "It's so important to own your biography, to own your journey."
Education beyond the classroom
A significant focus was placed on education, which Prof. Phakeng views as a lifelong endeavour not limited to formal institutions.
'Education happens everywhere,' she noted, highlighting her belief that most learning occurs outside the classroom.
She continues to engage audiences through her YouTube channel's Sunday sessions, which cover topics such as artificial intelligence, demonstrating that education is an ongoing process extending well beyond traditional schooling.
Hope and purpose
Living with purpose is central to Prof. Phakeng’s philosophy.
She explained: "I've been very clear throughout my life that I'm here to give hope."
Her passion for education is deeply tied to this mission — even naming her child Hope. "I live hope, I give hope through education," she shared.
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In closing, Prof. Phakeng offered encouragement to entrepreneurs, urging them to seize each day as an opportunity: "Opportunities are never perfect. Every day you have is an opportunity—don't lose it by being sad."
Prof. Phakeng's commitment to empowerment and continuous learning promises an inspiring contribution at the MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast.
Watch here:
MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast
'Own Your Legacy' is the theme for the MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast 2025.
A breakfast event where influential leaders share their personal journeys of building impact that lasts. Four dynamic speakers will reflect on the theme of legacy — exploring how success, leadership, and purpose can shape the future beyond the present moment.
Speakers:
Grace Harding - Ocean Basket CEO
Focus: Leadership skills and the art of building a global brand
Graeme Codrington - Futurist
Focus: Current and future business trends, and will how AI can become your intelligent assistant.
Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng - Businesswoman and former Vice-Chancellor of UCT
Focus: The importance of education in preparation for the working environment.
Patrick Lambie - Former Springbok and property developer
Focus: Rugby career and the importance of flexibility in his transition into the corporate space.
The Event Details:
Event Date: 1st October 2025
Time: Registration starts at 07:30, event starts at 08:00 and ends at 11:30
Venue: Vodacom Dome, Vodacom Midrand
Ticket Costs: R600 for a Seat | R5,500 for a Table of 10
Theme: MANCOSA Jacaranda FM Business Breakfast | Own Your Legacy
Tune in to the 'Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp', weekdays from 09:00 - 12:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
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Image: Jacaranda FM