Board Members of the Basic Concepts Foundation
Meet our board -
Minenhle Nene is a highly accomplished professional with a strong background in international relations, politics, governance, and project management. Currently pursuing a master's degree in International Relations, she focuses her research on leveraging a sustainable Blue Economy in the SADC region for sustainable growth. Minenhle has worked on a range of global themes, including climate change, the ocean economy, human and gender rights, and peace and security. Her experience includes positions at the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), where she conducted research, and in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, where she collaborated with UN agencies and government entities. In these roles, she provided oversight on significant projects and managed the finance department. Minenhle's dedication to her field is evidenced by her involvement on SAIIA's executive committee, recognition as a scholar, and being awarded prestigious scholarships. With her expertise and commitment to sustainable development and diplomacy, Minenhle Nene is a valuable asset in advancing global cooperation and development.
Fezeka Stuurman is an accomplished professional with a strong background in sustainability, renewable energy, and enterprise development. Currently serving as the Chief Legacy Builder at the Cultiver Group, a sustainability advisory firm, Fezeka works with private, public, and academic institutions to promote sustainable thinking in their organizations and projects. With previous experience in the renewable energy and SMME development industries, Fezeka has been involved in utility scale photovoltaic projects and enterprise development programs. Recognized for her achievements, she was accepted into the Harvard Emerging Leaders Program, presented her master's paper at the World Bank, and was selected as a finalist in a global competition. Fezeka's passion lies in sustainability, particularly in education, renewable energy, and the empowerment of youth and women. Through her role at Cultiver, she is dedicated to leveraging her skills and passion to contribute to a more sustainable world.
Diane Goldsmith is a versatile professional with a wealth of experience spanning corporate and non-profit sectors, specifically in finance, business, and education. With excellent written and verbal communication skills, a strong business acumen, and a focus on delivering high-quality work, Diane excels in project management and possesses a talent for training others. Her organizational skills, adaptability, resourcefulness, and analytical mindset contribute to her ability to consistently strive for excellence. Alongside her qualifications as a teacher, Diane has been actively involved in training teachers and providing private instruction. Within the non-profit sector, she has held various roles in education-related organizations, encompassing training, recruitment, fundraising, project management, research, human resources, personal assistance, and editing. Diane also brings valuable experience as a recruitment consultant, manager, analyst/researcher in a stock-broking firm, and teacher.
Louis Benjamin is the visionary founder of the Basic Concepts Foundation and the creator of the innovative Basic Concepts Programme. He possesses an impressive academic background, including a Ph.D. in Education, an M.Ed. in Psychology (Research), and a B.Ed. in Psychology. Louis has also completed a BA in Social Work, further enhancing his diverse knowledge base. With a focus on cognitive and socio-cultural perspectives on learning and development, Louis's research has been published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences. He has demonstrated leadership in various professional organizations, including serving as the Chairperson of the Western Cape Branch of the Southern African Association for Learners With Educational and Learning Difficulties. Louis has a strong interest in psycho-educational assessment, metacognitive educational curricula, and fostering inclusive education through a whole-school approach. His extensive expertise and passion for improving education make him an invaluable asset to the Basic Concepts Foundation.
