Welcome to the Youth spotlight series, where we offer first-hand insights into young leaders in the evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) sector. You can discover their stories, achievements, and impact on our community. This is the heart and soul of the #EIDM movement.
In this conversation, the Africa Evidence Network talks to Lesedi Senamele Matlala, a Lecturer, Researcher, Social Entrepreneur, Education Activist, and Executive Director of Go-Getters Brand, a Research Consultancy.
Making a Difference with evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM):
What inspired you to get involved with EIDM?
My passion for creating positive social change and ensuring that policies and programmes are effective and impactful inspired me to get involved with EIDM. My academic background in Public Policy, Monitoring, and Evaluation, coupled with my professional experiences, highlighted evidence's critical role in making informed decisions. I was driven by the desire to bridge the gap between research and policy implementation, ensuring that decisions are grounded in reliable data and can lead to tangible community improvements.
Can you share a specific accomplishment you're proud of where EIDM played a key role? How did it make a positive impact?
One of my proudest accomplishments was leading a project evaluating educational programmes' effectiveness in rural South Africa. Using EIDM, we conducted comprehensive data collection and analysis to assess the impact of these programmes on student outcomes. The findings revealed significant gaps and areas for improvement, which we presented to local policy-makers. As a result, several recommendations were adopted, leading to enhanced educational strategies and resources being allocated more effectively. This improved the quality of education and empowered the local communities by ensuring their voices and needs were heard and addressed.
Have you faced any challenges promoting EIDM within your community or work area? How did you overcome them?
Promoting EIDM often comes with challenges, such as resistance to change and limited understanding of its value. In my experience, one significant challenge was the reluctance of some stakeholders to rely on evidence-based recommendations due to entrenched practices and political influences. I focused on building solid relationships and trust with stakeholders to overcome this. I also conducted workshops and training sessions to educate them on the importance of EIDM, showcasing successful case studies and the long-term benefits of making informed decisions. By demonstrating the positive outcomes of EIDM, I gradually shifted perspectives and fostered a culture of evidence-informed decision-making.
Your Vision for the Future:
What are the biggest challenges facing EIDM implementation in Africa right now?
The biggest challenges facing EIDM implementation in Africa include limited access to reliable data, inadequate funding for research, and a lack of capacity and skills among policymakers to interpret and utilise evidence effectively. Additionally, political and socio-economic factors often influence decision-making processes, making prioritising evidence over other considerations difficult.
How are you working to inspire and empower other young people to get involved with EIDM?
I actively mentor young professionals and students, providing them with opportunities to engage in EIDM projects and research. Through my role as a lecturer and participation in various youth leadership initiatives, I emphasise the importance of evidence in shaping policies and driving social change. I also use platforms like workshops, conferences, and social media to share knowledge, resources, and success stories, encouraging young people to pursue careers in EIDM and become advocates for evidence-based practices in their respective fields.
Imagine the future of EIDM in Africa. How do you see EIDM evolving and creating a more positive impact?
I envision a future where EIDM is deeply embedded in the decision-making processes across Africa, leading to more effective and sustainable policies and programmes. With advancements in technology and data analytics, access to reliable data will improve, and the capacity for evidence-based analysis will expand. This evolution will enable governments and organisations to address complex challenges more efficiently, reducing poverty, improving health outcomes, and promoting economic development. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning, EIDM will create a more transparent and responsive governance system, ultimately leading to a more equitable and prosperous Africa.
Sharing Your Passion (Quote):
Can you share a powerful quote or statement that captures your passion for EIDM and its importance?
"Evidence-informed decision-making is not just about making better decisions; it's about transforming lives and communities by ensuring that every policy and action is grounded in truth and effectiveness."
Perhaps you have a story or anecdote that exemplifies EIDM is making a difference.
"During a community health project, we used EIDM to identify the most effective interventions for reducing malaria incidence. By relying on solid data and rigorous analysis, we implemented targeted measures that led to a 30% decrease in malaria cases within a year, demonstrating informed decision-making's profound impact on public health."
About the author: Lesedi Senamele Matlala epitomises the essence of a modern-day Renaissance individual, seamlessly navigating multiple roles with expertise, passion, and dedication. As a Lecturer, Researcher, Social Entrepreneur, Education Activist, and Executive Director of Go-Getters Brand, a Research Consultancy, Lesedi's professional journey is marked by academic excellence, societal impact, and a relentless commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering positive change.
With a Master’s in Public Policy, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Lesedi's academic foundation is robust, complemented by Postgraduate Diplomas in Labour Law from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Research Methods and Skills from Maastricht University. Currently pursuing his PhD at UJ, Lesedi's academic pursuits reflect a deep-seated passion for understanding complex societal issues and developing evidence-based solutions.
Lesedi's professional portfolio extends beyond academia, encompassing diverse spheres of influence and engagement. As a Lecturer, he imparts knowledge and inspires future leaders in Public Management and Governance, specialising in Public Policy, Monitoring, and Evaluation. Through his dynamic approach to teaching and mentorship, Lesedi empowers students to critically analyse policy challenges and develop innovative strategies for effective governance.
Beyond the classroom, Lesedi is deeply engaged in the broader civil society landscape, holding leadership positions and actively contributing to various organisations. He plays a pivotal role in associations such as the Association of Southern African Schools & Departments of Public Administration & Management (ASSADPAM), the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM), and the African Evaluation Association (AfrEA). Through these platforms, Lesedi collaborates with like-minded individuals to drive meaningful change and shape the future of African public policy and governance.
Lesedi's commitment to youth leadership and empowerment is exemplified through his involvement in numerous initiatives and organisations. As an Ambassador at the South African BRICS Youth Association (SABYA) and the World Literacy Foundation (WLF), he champions the rights and aspirations of young people, advocating for inclusive development and equitable opportunities. Additionally, Lesedi is a Sustainability Coordinator at the YALI Regional Leadership Centre, where he fosters leadership skills and promotes sustainable development practices among emerging African leaders. He is also a Board Member for the Accessed ZA programme.
Lesedi has been honoured with prestigious accolades and awards for his outstanding societal contributions. Named one of the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans, he is celebrated for his exceptional leadership and commitment to social change. Furthermore, as a finalist for the TransUnion Rising Star Award and a recipient of recognition from FOYA as an entrepreneur of the year, Lesedi's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset are widely acknowledged and respected.
Central to Lesedi's professional ethos is his unwavering dedication to evidence-informed decision-making. His research focuses on critical issues such as Educational/Leadership Programmes, Policy Impact Assessment, Socio-Economic Studies, and Monitoring and Evaluation. Through rigorous analysis and meticulous methodology, Lesedi seeks to uncover insights that inform policy formulation and drive positive societal outcomes.
Lesedi's prolific academic contributions extend beyond scholarly publications, encompassing conference presentations, workshops, and seminars. He facilitates knowledge exchange and fosters collaborative learning environments by sharing his expertise and insights with diverse audiences. Lesedi actively contributes to shaping discourse and driving innovation in public policy and governance through these platforms.
In essence, Lesedi Senamele Matlala embodies the ideals of a transformative leader, blending academic rigour with social activism and entrepreneurial acumen. His journey is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and collective action in driving positive change and building a brighter future for future generations.
Acknowledgements: The author(s) is solely responsible for the content of this article, including all errors or omissions; acknowledgements do not imply endorsement of the content. The author is grateful to Charity Chisoro for her guidance in preparing and finalising this article, as well as her editorial support.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in published blog posts, as well as any errors or omissions, are the sole responsibility of the author/s and do not represent the views of the Africa Evidence Network, its secretariat, advisory or reference groups, or its funders; nor does it imply endorsement by the afore-mentioned parties.
Suggested citation: Matlala, L.S. (2024) Championing Change: Lesedi's Journey with evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) in Africa. Blog posting on 30 July 2024. Available at: https://www.africaevidencenetwork.org/en/learning-space/article/334/
