“You can never have an impact on society if you have not changed yourself… great peacemakers are all people of integrity, of honesty, but humility.” — Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, 2004
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation offers young leaders from across the African continent a chance to become part of Nelson Mandela’s legacy of transformative impact.
We offer a life-changing opportunity for personal growth via a prestigious postgraduate scholarship and Leadership Development Programme, for those who want to use their talents to serve Africa.
760+
scholars
scholars
38
countries
countries
36
disciplines
disciplines
21
cohorts
cohorts
Explore our interactive 2025 yearbook to see these numbers brought to life!
Scholar stories
Meet the Class of 2026
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A Pan-African scholarship
As a Mandela Rhodes Scholar, you will meet and engage with the brighest minds from across the African continent.
“Sharing deep views with 28 strangers was a highlight. I came to realise that diversity is who we are, and that it can contribute to building the African continent.”
— Comfort Ndala (South Africa & Tshwane University of Technology, 2010)
“The absolute joy of meeting like-minded scholars gives me hope. The programme gave me insight into myself, how I react to situations and people, and has put me in touch with people I would never have met.”
— Sheena Talma (Seychelles & Rhodes University, 2017)
“After the scholarship, I am a changed man. The experience changed the way I think and the way I do things. I will carry this awakened spirit with me for the rest of my life. Never again will I say that it can’t be done.”
— Luke Kannemeyer (South Africa & the University of Cape Town, 2011)
“The MRF is unique in its sense of community: you are getting admission into the biggest family you'll ever have. Once you're accepted, you'll be supported in every way. Genuine interest and affirmation of everyone's journey is what the MRF stands for.”
— Shorouk Sebaa (Egypt & University of Cape Town, 2018)
