30 September 2026
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Story Siqhamo Hlubi Jama
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Photo Siqhamo Hlubi Jama
Members of the inaugural University of the Free State Millennium Fellows Class of 2026. The cohort was selected for the prestigious Millennium Fellowship, joining a global network of young leaders advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through community-driven projects and social impact initiatives.
Their selection places the UFS among more than 330 campuses across 60 countries chosen to host the programme in 2026. From more than 76 000 applications submitted worldwide, only about 5 500 students were selected as Millennium fellows, making the achievement particularly significant for the University and its student leaders.
Turning ideas into impact
The UFS cohort will lead 18 student-driven projects contributing to a broad range of SDGs, including Zero Hunger; Quality Education; Good Health and Well-being; Climate Action; Clean Water and Sanitation; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Decent Work and Economic Growth; Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions; and Partnerships for the Goals.
Their projects reflect a growing commitment among UFS students to apply knowledge beyond the classroom and create practical solutions to challenges facing communities.
This aligns closely with the University’s vision of developing engaged graduates who contribute meaningfully to society through innovation, collaboration, and responsible leadership. Stories that demonstrate student development, leadership, and societal impact are central to the University’s commitment to building responsible societal futures.
A first for the UFS
Leading the inaugural UFS Millennium Fellowship cohort are Campus Directors Nyadzani Kagiso Mbedzi and Mihle Matyedi, who will coordinate and support the fellows throughout the programme. For the student leaders, the fellowship represents an opportunity to transform ideas into meaningful action.
“Honestly speaking, I’d like to thank the Millennium Fellowship for giving me and the other 17 fellows the opportunity to actually assist in addressing the issues we as the fellows see on campus. It is also a great honour for us to be the first cohort at the UFS, and we hope to make a lasting difference,” says Nyadzani Kagiso Mbedzi.
“It is an honour to be part of the UFS’ first Millennium Fellowship cohort. Together, we hope to turn our ideas into meaningful action and create lasting impact,” says Mihle Matyedi.
The UFS Millennium Fellows Class of 2026
The fellows are:
Amkele Diko, Mihle Matyedi, Makhanani Sono, Busisiwe Nkaletshane, Nokwanda Ntuli, Khanyisile Kamisa, Lethabo Maleka, Matshepo Shayo, Banele Gaza, Keneiloe Leope, Eshly Mabokwane, Puleng Monaune, Nyadzani Kagiso Mbedzi, Nolwazi Mafutha, Kegomoditswe Selebi, Onalenna Mokitimi, Lindo Mathebula, and Nompumelelo Phillips.
As they begin their fellowship journey, these students are not only representing the University of the Free State on a global platform but are also demonstrating how student leadership can drive positive change in communities and contribute to a more sustainable future. The University congratulates the inaugural UFS Millennium Fellows and looks forward to seeing the impact of their projects, partnerships, and innovations over the coming months.