Browsing by Subject "Mentorship"

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    A theory and outcome evaluation of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation (AGOF) Association Programme
    (2025) Ndamase, Nozuko; Chapman, Sarah
    This dissertation presents a comprehensive evaluation of the Association Programme of the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation (AGOF), which is designed to foster entrepreneurial activities among its participants. The evaluation employs a dual focus, integrating both theory evaluation and outcome evaluation methodologies to assess the effectiveness of the programme. The theory evaluation utilizes a descriptive research design, examining the programme's Theory of Change (ToC) and aligning it with empirical evidence. Key methodologies included an extensive literature review and semi-structured interviews conducted with subject matter experts. Data analysis was performed using thematic analysis to ensure a robust understanding of the programme's underlying assumptions and causal pathways. The outcome evaluation, adapted the Success Case Method (SCM), focuses on identifying and analysing successful and non-successful cases among programme participants. Initially, a review using existing AGOF database was conducted to identify potential success cases, followed by in-depth interviews to gather qualitative data from selected individuals. Findings from the theory evaluation indicate that the AGOF Association Programme's ToC is supported by empirical evidence, emphasising the criticality of mentorship and resource accessibility for entrepreneurial success. The outcome evaluation reveals that many fellows successfully established socially responsible, high-impact enterprises while also highlighting challenges regarding access to financial resources and the application process for funding. Overall, the integrated findings from both evaluations reflect the programme's positive impact on fostering entrepreneurial capabilities among participants while also pointing out areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing funding accessibility and ongoing support mechanisms for fellows.
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    Mentorship expectations differences across generations: A study of South African black women
    (2025) Kanyuchi, Amantle; Dharani, Babar
    This research investigates the differing mentorship expectations among African-Black women across three generational cohorts: the Struggle Generation (ages 42–61), the Transition Generation (ages 29–41), and the Born Free Generation (ages 22–28). Recognizing mentorship as a vital coping strategy in workplace environments, the study employs qualitative research to explore how factors like historical context, technology, and intersectionality shape these expectations. The study employs a qualitative methodology to explore mentorship relationship expectations among different generational cohorts of African black women in South Africa. Through in- depth interviews with participants from the Struggle, Transition, and Born Free Generations, the research uncovers nuanced experiences and expectations surrounding mentorship. A semi-structured format facilitated open dialogue, allowing participants to share their beliefs and motivations. Data collection adhered to ethical guidelines, ensuring confidentiality, while thematic and narrative analysis identified key patterns and themes. This approach captures diverse perspectives, contributing to a deeper understanding of mentorship dynamics within this demographic. Findings reveal that while the cohorts share a common understanding of mentorship, they differ in preferred formats, key factors for effective relationships, and desired qualities in mentors and mentees. The Struggle Generation balances professional and familial roles, the Born Free Generation seeks digital and informal avenues, and the Transition Generation emphasises proactive engagement. Ultimately, this dissertation highlights that for mentorship to deliver on its promise of fostering both professional growth and personal empowerment, it needs to be dynamic and evolve with the changing needs of generations. The insights underscore the need for tailored mentorship programs that address the diverse needs of African-Black women.