This Women’s Month, we celebrate the unstoppable force transforming African business education and trade. Report by Sello Lentsoane…
This Women’s Month, Professor Pumela Msweli takes centre stage in the African trade and development conversation – a visionary leader whose work is reshaping business education and economic thinking across the continent.
As Executive Dean and CEO of the University of South Africa’s School of Business Leadership (SBL), Professor Msweli embodies bold leadership and a relentless commitment to empowering Africa’s future business leaders. Her influence stretches beyond academia into policy and industry, where she advocates for inclusive growth and regional integration.
Her latest book on intra-African trade is a game-changer, sparking critical conversations about unlocking the continent’s economic potential through stronger trade partnerships and collaboration. Launched in early August, the book has attracted widespread attention from academics, policymakers, and business leaders eager to harness Africa’s opportunities.
With over 20 years of academic and research experience and advanced degrees including a PhD, MPhil, and MBA, Professor Msweli is also a mentor to more than 50 postgraduate students. Her dedication to nurturing talent highlights her deep commitment to building a new generation of African leaders.
In April 2025, under Professor Msweli’s inclusive leadership and the collective effort of the SBL team, the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL) proudly joined the ranks of the world’s top 63 business schools. This global accreditation marks a defining moment in South African business education – one that celebrates vision, teamwork, and the power of shared purpose.
Professor Pumela Msweli’s story is one of vision, resilience, and impact – a beacon for women across Africa and beyond, demonstrating that true leadership can rewrite the playbook for the continent’s success.