Mandela University PhD student accepted for Mandela Washington Fellowship #R2bP

Through this fellowship, he aims to enhance his leadership and business skills while expanding his professional network across Africa and the US.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship, established by President Barack Obama in 2010, has supported over 7,200 young leaders from 49 African countries, empowering them to become transformative leaders who drive meaningful change.

Each year, the programme receives thousands of applications, which undergo a rigorous selection and shortlisting process.

Finalists are then invited for interviews by the US Embassy’s Minister Counsellor for Public Affairs.

“I hope to gain deeper insights into innovative leadership and business strategies that can drive sustainable impact within my field. I am eager to learn from experienced mentors, industry experts, and fellow participants about best practices in entrepreneurship, policymaking, and technology-driven solutions.

In addition to skills development, the fellowship provides an opportunity to break free from familiar surroundings and push one’s limits, challenging both abilities and perspectives. It encourages personal and professional growth, helping to shape well-rounded, globally aware leaders who are equipped to make a lasting difference.

Reino’s PhD research, which is linked to the University’s Centre for Community Technologies (CCT), focuses on assessing ICT readiness levels in South African schools. His research supports the eReady project, which aims to implement an assessment tool in over 5,000 schools.

Currently in his third year, he plans to complete his research within the next two years. He credits his mentor, Professor Darelle van Greunen, for guiding his academic and professional journey and introducing him to the Mandela Washington Fellowship.

Alongside his academic pursuits, Reino is the Chief Innovation Officer at Ampersand, a design consultancy he co-founded with fellow Mandela University alumnus Greig Timkoe over a decade ago. The company develops custom Software as a Service (SaaS) applications and tools for both public and private sectors.

Reino believes the Mandela Washington Fellowship will refine his leadership skills and provide invaluable networking opportunities, fostering collaborations and projects that will positively impact his industry and community.

“I have no doubt that the Mandela Washington Fellowship will not only refine my business and leadership skills but also provide me with access to a dynamic network of African and US leaders.

This network has the potential to foster valuable engagements, collaborations, and exciting new projects.”