Dr. Thandeka Ellenson Honored for Excellence in Economic Development Research at the 2025 Clevenard Media Awards

Palma de Mallorca, Spain — The prestigious Clevenard Media Award 2025 will take place on Friday, November 21, 2025, in the Mediterranean city of Palma de Mallorca, Spain. This international platform celebrates exceptional leaders and changemakers in innovation, entrepreneurship, research, leadership, and community advancement from across the world.

Among this year’s distinguished nominees is Dr. Thandeka Ellenson, Chief Executive Officer of the Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) and Chairperson of the Culture, Heritage & Investment Tourism (CHIT) Committee in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.

Dr. Ellenson has been nominated in the category of Economic Development Research, recognizing her outstanding contributions to public sector innovation and evidence-based policy that drives inclusive and sustainable growth.

A Visionary Research Leader Driving Economic Transformation

As CEO of MKRI, Dr. Ellenson has positioned the Institute as a premier action research organization dedicated to bridging the gap between research and policy implementation. Her leadership has redefined how evidence-based insights can guide public sector strategies, stimulate investment, and uplift communities.

Her research portfolio has focused on identifying practical initiatives that catalyze regional development, enhance economic resilience, and create sustainable livelihoods. Among her most notable research-driven interventions are:

• Event-led economic development, promoting cultural tourism and local enterprise growth;
• Manufacturing and industrialisation, to expand regional production and job creation;
• Research on cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes, unlocking new economic and health opportunities;
• ICT skills development and training, empowering youth and women to participate in the digital economy;
• Promotion of innovation ecosystems, fostering collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers; and
• Establishment of digital centres, expanding access to technology and bridging the digital divide.

Many of these initiatives have transitioned from research findings to active implementation — shaping KwaZulu Natal’s economic development agenda and contributing to South Africa’s broader knowledge economy.

From Research to Impact: The Power of Knowledge in Action

Under Dr. Ellenson’s leadership, MKRI has emerged as a driving force in public sector research and applied innovation. By transforming academic insights into actionable policy frameworks, the Institute has helped governments make informed decisions that translate directly into measurable community impact.

Her work has been particularly influential in advancing the culture and heritage economy, notably through research that led to the creation of the Hlangana Zulu Parade. This flagship event has grown into a major tourism attraction and investment platform — a living example of how research-informed initiatives can convert cultural assets into economic engines.

Dr. Ellenson’s achievements demonstrate how research, when guided by a deep understanding of local contexts, can become a catalyst for transformation — turning policy into progress and knowledge into prosperity.

Keynote Speaker: Translating Research into Action

In recognition of her leadership, Dr. Ellenson will not only be honored at the Clevenard Media Awards but will also serve as one of the keynote speakers at the ceremony.

Her address, titled “Translating Research into Action: Building the Knowledge Economy for Inclusive Growth,” will explore how African research institutions can effectively drive economic reform, influence policy, and foster innovation through evidence-based approaches.

She will also share insights from MKRI’s journey in aligning research with practical implementation — highlighting how data-driven policy solutions can build stronger, more equitable economies.

Global Recognition of African Research Excellence

The Clevenard Media Award is not a competition but a recognition platform that honors individuals and institutions making measurable contributions to their fields and communities. Every nomination is a celebration of sustained excellence, leadership, and innovation.

Dr. Ellenson’s nomination in Economic Development Research highlights Africa’s growing influence in global knowledge creation and policy innovation. Her recognition affirms MKRI’s role as a leading institution in transforming research into real-world solutions that promote inclusive development and sustainable economic growth.

Event Details

• Venue: Calle Manacor, núm. 156, Palma 07007 Illes Balears, Spain
• Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
• Organizer: Clevenard SL (NIF B75809574)

About Clevenard

Clevenard is an international media and digital marketing company specializing in marketing, networking, telecommunications, sourcing services, and consulting. With offices across Europe, Africa, and the UK, Clevenard celebrates visionary leaders who are transforming their sectors and communities through innovation and impact.

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Category:

Press release 

Oganisation:

Clevenard

Writer:

Tolu Osindero

Phone:

+34631279811

Location:

Spain