“I came to Rhodes with one ambition: to become a pharmacist. What I did not realise at the time was that Rhodes would shape not only my academic future, but also my character, leadership philosophy, and outlook on life. The academic environment challenged me to think critically, pursue excellence, and develop the discipline and resilience required to solve complex problems. Those qualities continue to guide me today in executive leadership within the healthcare industry. However, my greatest education came outside the lecture theatres and research laboratories.
One of my proudest achievements was founding the West African Society (WESOC). As the number of West African students at Rhodes grew, I recognised that we lacked a platform to support one another, celebrate our cultures, and build a sense of community. Inspired by organisations such as the Zimbabwe Students Society (ZIMSOC), I worked with fellow students to establish WESOC and became its Founding Chairperson.
One of the greatest strengths of Rhodes University is that it creates opportunities for students who are willing to embrace them. Every leadership opportunity I accepted prepared me for the next one. Rhodes encouraged initiative, curiosity and service, allowing students to grow not only academically but personally. It gave me the confidence to step beyond my comfort zone and discover abilities I did not know I possessed.
To prospective students from across Africa, my advice is simple: come to Rhodes for the qualification, but immerse yourself in everything the University has to offer. Join student organisations. Volunteer. Take on leadership roles. Build friendships across cultures. Challenge yourself beyond your academic programme. Those experiences will shape your confidence, character and leadership just as much as your degree.
Today, whenever I hear the University’s motto, I do not simply see a slogan, I see my own journey. My life is living proof that Rhodes University is, indeed, Where Leaders Learn.”
Education:
Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), Rhodes University
Master of Science (Pharmacy), Rhodes University
Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmaceutics), Rhodes University
Career:
Business Unit Head, Sub-Saharan Africa - Eli Lilly at Aspen Group
District Cabinet Secretary - Lions International District 418 in Ghana