Mrs Kagiso Chikane, Reverend Doctor Frank Chikane, Mrs Hazel Makhanya and Prof Mandla Makhanya during the annual SBL Leadership in Practice Award ceremony
On 4 October, the Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership presented its prestigious Leadership in Practice Award to Reverend Dr Frank Chikane in recognition of the legendary role he played as one of the pillars of South Africa’s struggle for democracy and freedom. This annual award was initiated in 1989 and takes into cognisance the nominee’s business achievements over the past few years and the value these achievements have added to society and the South African economy at large.
Guests were welcomed by Unisa Principal and Vice-chancellor, Prof Mandla Makhanya. Prof Makhanya mentioned that Reverend Dr Chikane – who is the 20th recipient of the award – is following in the footsteps of great individuals who have received the award; they include Dr Mamphela Ramphele, Mr Eric Molobi, Dr Alan Knott-Craig, Ms Cheryl Carolus and Mr Cyril Ramaphosa and Dr Ntatho Motlana (to mention a few). He summarised Reverend Dr Chikane as a leader who is results-driven, portrays dedication and energy and who has the interest of the community at heart.
In his introduction of the recipient, the acting Executive Director and CEO of the SBL, Prof Valiant Clapper said that Reverend Dr Chikane embodies the principles of honesty, loyalty, transparency and ethics. Despite years of political strife and struggle, Reverend Dr Chikane has stayed true to his service to humanity and his relentless belief in righteousness. He is also widely known for his respect towards individuals and to the constitution of this country as well as his contribution towards establishing the Constitution.
Upon receiving the 18 carat gold coin Reverend Dr Chikane said that he was extremely humbled by this award. He thanked Unisa and the SBL for the honour. He also welcomed friends, family, guests and previous colleagues, many of whom he has not seen in years. During his acceptance speech he focussed on three themes, being: his own journey, the character of the struggle and visionary and transformational leadership. After sharing interesting facts of his childhood and how he ended up in the political sphere and got involved in the struggle, Reverend Dr Chikane shared his views on leadership and his passion for the people of this country.
“Leadership must be defined around a reference point. A leader can decide whether this reference point will have a positive of negative impact.” The reference of a true leader is integrity and justice. A leader must have the ability to encourage people to function independently. He pleaded to the people of South Africa to “fix” our country and not wait for someone else to do it. “The people must take hands in this process. If we do not fix what is broken we are all going to pay a big price.” said Reverend Dr Chikane.
He firmly believes that a visionary leader must serve all the people and not only factions or groups. He also says that corruption and the needs of the people cannot go hand in hand. After his inspiring words Reverend Dr Chikane was met with a standing ovation.
In a tribute to Reverend Dr Chikane, Dr Sydney Mufamadi, Director: School of Leadership, University of Johannesburg and former Minister of Safety and Security and former Minister of Provincial and Local Government saluted a friendship of more than 30-years with Dr Chikane. He told guests of various events where they had to stand together in life threatening situations. He said that Dr Chikane made a moral choice to forge a better future for the people of this country. “One of the most outstanding characteristics of Dr Chikane is his willingness to forgive.” said Dr Mufamadi.
Guests were entertained the young a capella group from Cape Town, D7 as well as South African music legendary Vusi Mahlasela who brought many memories to the stage. The Leadership in Practice song – Rise Up – was performed by Lucky Sibanda (a member of the Afro Tenors).
