Rooted in legacy, driven by purpose, committed to change.
Dr. Makaziwe Mandela is a respected South African businesswoman, academic, and global advocate for equity and empowerment. The eldest daughter of Evelyn Mase and Nelson Mandela, she was raised in Soweto during apartheid, an experience that shaped her enduring commitment to social justice and transformation.
Dr. Mandela holds a BA in Social Work from Fort Hare University and an Honours Degree in Sociology from the University of Natal. She later earned both a Master’s in Sociology and a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Massachusetts, USA, as a recipient of the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship and Distinguished Fellowship.
Her career spans corporate leadership, academia, and philanthropy. She has served on the boards of global companies including Nestlé SA and has held executive roles at the Development Bank of Southern Africa and Spoornet. She also co-founded Nozala, a women-led investment group focused on uplifting South African women through economic participation. Her work consistently champions women’s empowerment, capacity building, and ethical leadership.
As Chairperson of House of Mandela, co-founded with her daughter Tukwini, she promotes African heritage and storytelling through wine and lifestyle products. She is also a director of the House of Mandela Family Foundation, which addresses challenges facing underserved communities, with a focus on education, healthcare, agriculture, renewable energy, and HIV/AIDS awareness.
An inspiring global speaker, Dr. Mandela addresses topics including inclusive leadership, economic justice, and the power of legacy. She continues to encourage institutions and individuals to lead with purpose and drive lasting, equitable change.
Talking Points
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Dr. Makaziwe Mandela explores the profound impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion in building stronger, more resilient societies and workplaces.Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
She challenges organizations to move beyond performative measures and embrace meaningful systemic change that fosters true representation and opportunity for all.
Why Differences Mater + Allyship
Understanding and embracing differences is key to innovation, empathy, and progress. Dr. Mandela emphasizes the role of allyship in dismantling biases and fostering inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but actively valued
Why Differences Mater + Allyship
Servant Leadership
Inspired by her father, President Mandela’s legacy, Dr. Mandela advocates for servant leadership— where leaders prioritize the needs of their people, communities, and organizations above personal gain. She highlights the power of humility, vision, and service in driving sustainable and ethical success.
Servant Leadership
The Modern Workplace & Pupose Driven Leadership
In today’s evolving workplace, authenticity and purpose-driven leadership are more important than ever. Dr. Mandela speaks on creating environments where individuals feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work, leading to increased engagement, innovation, and well-being (leaning into her experience as an HR Director)
The Modern Workplace & Pupose Driven Leadership
Female Empowerment, Economic Freedom Gender Equality
As a champion of women’s rights, Dr. Mandela discusses the urgent need to break down barriers that limit women’s economic, social, and political advancement. She explores strategies for gender equality, financial independence, and leadership development that enable women to thrive.
Female Empowerment, Economic Freedom Gender Equality
Collaboration v Competition
True progress is built on collaboration, not rivalry.Collaboration v Competition
Dr. Mandela challenges the competitive mindsets that often hinder growth and shares insights on how working together across industries, communities, and cultures fosters shared success and global impact.
Agriculture/Food Poverty & Security + Climate Change
Food security and climate resilience are among Agriculture/Food Poverty & Security + Climate Change
the most pressing global challenges. Dr. Mandela examines the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and policy, advocating for innovative solutions to ensure equitable food access and protect our planet for future generations
Video
Dr Makaziwe Mandela | Jacksonville University
Dr Makaziwe Mandela | Book Launch - London
