Answers Part 5 submitted by

Nqobile Mnisi

I look for opportunities to deepen my understanding and insightConsistently
I believe that people are more than their work and I am spiritually emotionally and socially considerateConsistently
I take time to think about work and the changes happening around usConsistently
I see how the work done today affects work that may be required tomorrowConsistently
I consider and discuss how decisions and actions could affect other work groupsOften
I share information and listen to others to make better decisionsConsistently
I pay attention to local and international current affairs which impact our businessConsistently
I take time to understand the rest of our businessConsistently
I look for ways to improve our business processes and for reducing siloesConsistently
I am very aware listen really well and notice important clues that are not obvious to othersConsistently

Please provide examples of how you demonstrate systems thinking and sense-making ability in your career

(Approx 100-300 words)

I demonstrate systems thinking by consistently stepping back from individual activities to understand the broader structural dynamics shaping access to psychology education in South Africa. Rather than viewing student challenges as isolated issues, I analyse how socioeconomic inequality, institutional gatekeeping, information asymmetry, and professional standards interact to influence who progresses within the field.

In building Phapano – The Difference, I have intentionally designed initiatives that respond to root causes rather than symptoms. For example, instead of focusing solely on motivational content, I developed structured workshops, digital resource systems, and mentorship pipelines that address information flow gaps and decision-making clarity. I consider how each intervention fits within the broader education and professional ecosystem, ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks and ethical standards.

My research background strengthens my ability to interpret complex and changing circumstances. I integrate qualitative insights from students, professional guidelines, and stakeholder feedback to refine programmes and anticipate emerging needs. This includes recognising shifts in digital engagement, postgraduate selection processes, and evolving workforce demands.

Systems thinking also informs my long-term sustainability approach. I am developing governance structures, defined roles, and process frameworks to improve organisational flow and reduce reliance on single individuals. By sharing information transparently and fostering collaborative networks, I support informed decision-making and collective growth.

Through reflective practice, cultural awareness, and perceptive listening, I aim to understand not only what is happening within the system, but why it is happening and how interventions can create sustainable, equitable change.

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About Rising Star

The Rising Star Programme, operated by BlackBark Productions, has been established for the purposes of recognising, celebrating and connecting young talented people who have a capacity for achievement and success and who contribute in an inspirational manner to the future of our nation. The qualities that elevate Rising Stars to the top go beyond performance and technical excellence. Rising Stars are polished, brilliant individuals with tremendous promise and great talent who excel for reasons that go far beyond their technical abilities alone.

Talented people make things happen, are highly committed to achieving goals, innovate very rapidly, and create a great deal of value (for companies and/or themselves) when their talent is spotted and harnessed.

The Programme aims to be a significant and sustainable vehicle through which organisations, our country and our continent can identify and nurture these “organisational and national assets” who are set to play a key role in shaping the future of our country and our continent.

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The Rising Star Programme is establishing a living community of young African talent that will be developed, mentored and provided with platforms for development and communication, therefore enabling them to become role models, opinion leaders and the inspiration for other future African Talent.