Sol Plaatje University Appoints Award-winning 'Homeboy' Thebe Ikalafeng as Chancellor
Described by Council Chair Professor Randall Carolissen as the continent’s foremost authority on branding, reputation, and as a leading advocate for an African renaissance
Dubbed Africa’s “most influential thinker and practitioner at the intersection of branding, culture and governance”, Thebe Ikalafeng has been appointed chancellor of Sol Plaatje University.
Kimberley-born Ikalafeng says returning to hold this post at his home city and a place that helped shape South Africa’s political economy, is both a homecoming and a calling.
Ikalafeng succeeds Justice Steven Majiedt, whose second term as chancellor ended in October 2025, the university said in a statement.
Announcing the appointment, the chairperson of council, Professor Randall Carolissen, said Sol Plaatje University was honoured to welcome a chancellor whose life’s work is deeply aligned with the institution’s founding values and future ambitions.
“Sol Plaatje University is privileged that this award-winning author, internationally recognised scholar and influential public intellectual has made himself available to serve as chancellor.
“Mr Ikalafeng has distinguished himself as the continent’s foremost authority on branding, reputation, and identity, and as a leading advocate for a brand-led African renaissance.
“His depth of intellect, global standing, and extensive business, academic, and civic networks will significantly strengthen the University’s ambition to be an institution of first choice, and a catalyst for unlocking the immense cultural, intellectual, and economic potential of the Northern Cape and its people — while advancing the University’s growing national and international stature.”
Professor Carolissen added that Ikalafeng’s appointment carries particular resonance given his roots in Kimberley and the University’s namesake.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has travelled to every country in Africa and every continent in the world, and worked across Africa and globally, shaping how institutions, cities, countries, and the continent itself understand and project their identity.
He is the Founder and Chairman of Brand Leadership Group, a multidisciplinary advisory operating at the intersection of strategy, creativity, and intellectual property law, and the Founder of Brand Africa, a non-profit movement established in 2010 to drive a brand-led African renaissance; and Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands study - the continent’s definitive barometer of brand admiration and reputation — conducted in more than 30 countries across Africa.
A trusted advisor to business leaders, institutions, and governments, Ikalafeng has advised several African heads of state and public institutions on nation branding, competitiveness, investment promotion, and cultural diplomacy. His work has consistently sought to reposition Africa from the margins of global perception to the centre of global relevance.
Ikalafeng has played a pivotal role in the transformation and re-branding of multiple higher education institutions in South Africa and beyond, supporting universities in navigating post-merger identity, relevance, and global competitiveness.
He has most recently served on the Council of Sol Plaatje University, bringing continuity, institutional memory, and strategic insight to his new role as Chancellor.
A prolific writer, sought-after thought leader and best-selling author, he has been named among the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine and has received multiple lifetime achievement awards, as well as honorary doctorates from the University of South Africa and the University of Johannesburg, in recognition of his contribution to branding, leadership, and public discourse.
Accepting the appointment, Ikalafeng said he regarded the role of chancellor as one of stewardship and service.
“I accept this appointment with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility. Sol Plaatje University is firmly rooted in the Northern Cape — a province rich in history, resilience, and possibility — yet its mandate and influence extend far beyond its geography.
“Named after one of Africa’s most influential intellectuals, patriots, and pan Africanists, Solomon Plaatje, the University carries a legacy of scholarship that speaks confidently from Africa to the world. To return to Kimberley, my home city and a place that helped shape South Africa’s political economy, is both a homecoming and a calling.
“I see the role of Chancellor as stewardship: supporting an institution that draws strength from its community while building a reputation for global excellence, relevance, and African thought leadership.”
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