“VUT hosted a Fulbright Specialist seminar exploring global leadership, resilience, inclusion, international exchange and the importance of building global partnerships.”
04 September 2026 | Story by: Qhawekazi Memani| Picture: Peter Masela
4 minutes read time.
On 26 August 2026, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Internationalisation Department hosted a seminar under the United States Fulbright Specialist Program titled Global Leadership: What is it and why is it important? The engagement brought together university leaders, academics, professional support staff, students and representatives of the United States Embassy to explore the leadership skills required in an increasingly interconnected world.
Opening the seminar, Professor Chengedzai Mafini, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, welcomed Fulbright Specialist Dr Maryalice “Allie” Mazzara, Public Diplomacy Officer Ms Vanessa Toscano of the United States Embassy, members of university management and other guests.
Prof Mafini reflected on the significance of the Fulbright Programme, which has become one of the world’s leading educational exchange initiatives, promoting international collaboration and mutual understanding across more than 160 countries. He noted that Dr Mazzara’s visit aligned with VUT’s commitment to strengthening global engagement and developing graduates capable of succeeding in a globally connected environment.
For a university of technology, he explained, global leadership is increasingly relevant as graduates enter industries shaped by international markets, technologies and partnerships.
“The question is whether we lead in it deliberately, or simply respond to it,” Prof Mafini said.
During her presentation, Dr Mazzara challenged participants to broaden their understanding of global leadership. She emphasised that becoming a global leader does not necessarily require international travel. Instead, leadership skills can be developed
through collaboration, cultural awareness, academic partnerships, professional networks and meaningful engagement with people from different backgrounds.
She also praised VUT’s motto, Inspiring thought. Shaping talent., saying it resonated strongly with her commitment to education and leadership development.
“Those are exactly what I value and care about,” Dr Mazzara said.
Drawing on her professional and personal experiences, Dr Mazzara highlighted key leadership qualities, including curiosity, empathy, respect, resilience and the ability to empower others. She encouraged attendees to reflect on the people who had influenced their own leadership journeys, whether teachers, mentors, colleagues or family members.
A central theme of the seminar was the importance of learning from setbacks. Sharing her own experiences of rejection before eventually receiving a Fulbright opportunity, Dr Mazzara urged participants not to allow failure to define their future.
“Don’t give up,” she advised.
She also emphasised the value of mentors and sponsors, noting that while mentors provide guidance, sponsors create opportunities by advocating for others and helping them access professional networks.
Another important discussion focused on inclusive leadership. Dr Mazzara argued that kindness and collaboration should not be viewed as weaknesses, but as strengths that help leaders create environments where people feel respected, valued and empowered to contribute.
The seminar also featured input from Ms Vanessa Toscano, who highlighted programmes supported by the United States Embassy that strengthen educational and cultural ties between South Africa and the United States. These include EducationUSA, which provides guidance to South Africans interested in studying in the United States, as well as other initiatives aimed at fostering international exchange and people-to-people connections.
“We endeavour to connect people and, by doing so, we endeavour to build partnerships,” Ms Toscano said.
During the interactive question-and-answer session, participants explored topics such as confidence, mentorship, inclusivity, leadership challenges and balancing authority with approachability.
Responding to these discussions, Dr Mazzara reiterated that leadership is ultimately about empowering others. She encouraged participants to remain open to new experiences, embrace challenges and build relationships with people who support their personal and professional growth.
Closing the seminar, Professor Solly Lebelo, Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, thanked Dr Mazzara, the United States Embassy and the Fulbright Programme for creating an opportunity for meaningful engagement with the VUT community.
“We appreciate Dr Mazzara for sharing her experiences and insights with us. We also thank the United States Embassy and the Fulbright programme for supporting this important engagement,” said Prof Lebelo.
The seminar reinforced a powerful message: global leadership is not limited to political leaders, executives or renowned public figures. It starts with everyday actions such as listening, mentoring, building partnerships and creating opportunities for others. In doing so, the engagement reflected VUT’s commitment to inspiring thought, shaping talent and preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in a connected world.