VOW 88.1 VOW BREAKFAST

In Conversation with Hendrick Makaneta

Loading player...
Two lecturers from Stellenbosch University were recognised on 17 February 2026 at the 2025 Absa Stokvel Awards for creating an innovative stokvel model that blends financial support with academic accountability. Conceptualised by Phodisho Kgwale, a lecturer in academic and professional literacies at the university’s Language Centre, and Reginald Kgwedi from the Department of Logistics, the initiative reimagines collective savings as a tool for research advancement, collaboration and social impact. Their model highlights how stokvels can move beyond traditional savings systems to actively support postgraduate academic success.

The stokvel allows members, primarily postgraduate researchers, to contribute monthly to a managed investment account used to fund essential research expenses such as conference fees, travel for data collection and university registration costs. Beyond financial assistance, the initiative also promotes academic discipline through bi-weekly accountability sessions where members share research progress and set goals. The group further extends its impact through community engagement, partnering with the Kayamandi Empowerment Centre to provide mentorship, strategic guidance and support for local development initiatives
10 Mar English South Africa Entertainment News · Music Interviews

Other recent episodes

IN CONVERSATION WITH Sifiso Ndhlovu

In the spirit of restoring dignity and uplifting communities, VOW Breakfast is proud to collaborate with Legends Barbershop to provide grooming services to homeless individuals. This initiative is more than just haircuts, it is about restoring confidence, promoting hygiene, and reaffirming the human right to dignity.
20 Mar 5 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH Tshepo Mantje

Tshepo Mantjé is a children’s rights activist, movement lawyer, and leading voice in Early Childhood Development (ECD) advocacy in South Africa. Serving as the Right to ECD Senior Coordinator at Equality Collective and National Coordinator of Real Reform for Early Childhood Development (RR4ECD), he works at the intersection of grassroots…
20 Mar 8 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH PICK N PAY CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGERS NOMPUMZO & MAGGIE

As South Africa marks Human Rights Day, Pick n Pay continues to position itself as more than a retailer playing an active role in community upliftment through ongoing humanitarian initiatives. From addressing food insecurity to supporting vulnerable communities, the company has consistently embedded social responsibility into its day-to-day operations.
20 Mar 3 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH BRAAMFONTEIN IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE

In the heart of Braamfontein, the streets have become home for many who are homeless, and the Braamfontein Improvement District plays a unique role in ensuring these spaces are safe and dignified. Every morning, their patrol teams go around checking on individuals, waking them up gently, and offering support where…
20 Mar 4 min

N CONVERSATION WITH Shoki Mmola,

Shoki Mmola, born Reshoketswe Portia Mmola on 10 August 1977 in Tzaneen, is a celebrated South African actress whose career spans over three decades across television, film, theatre, and voice work. She rose to prominence for her role as Celia Kunutu on Skeem Saam, a character she portrayed for over…
19 Mar 15 min
All episodes