MDP Student Spotlight: Phumla Mntambo
The Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) is a two-year graduate program that trains practitioners to understand, design, and manage integrated approaches to sustainable development challenges. The program equips students with critical knowledge, practical skills, and the mindset needed to drive change in both developing and developed societies.
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) is pleased to spotlight Phumla Mntambo, a Leopold Bachmann Foundation (LBF) Scholar pursuing her Master’s in Development Practice at the University of Pretoria. We asked Phumla five questions about her journey and her experience with the Global MDP Association.
Which SDG are you most passionate about?
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. I resonate with this “enabler goal,” given how progress on other SDGs depends on whether institutions and governance structures are strong and responsible.
What is the best part about working on your MDP degree program?
The interdisciplinary exposure across economics, governance, health, environment, and social science. Seeing how complex development challenges interconnect and learning to approach them systematically has been fascinating.
What is something that you are proud to have accomplished while working on your current MDP degree program?
I’m proud of how I have stretched my capacity for critical thinking and for taking on complex challenges with a more resilient outlook. The MDP has trained me in analysing leadership in development contexts with far more nuance than when I began.
How is the Leopold Bachmann Foundation helping you advance your career and aspirations?
The Leopold Bachmann Foundation is helping me advance my career by supporting my participation in this multidisciplinary program that equips me with the leadership and technical skills to address complex sustainable development challenges within my field and beyond.
What is a fun fact about you? Something others might not know?
Two fun facts: My music taste is so wide it feels like I could soundtrack multiple personalities. And I’m also quietly curious about the African beauty and personal care industry, so watch this space!
Phumla’s journey reflects how the MDP program empowers students to blend innovation, tradition, and personal passion in the pursuit of sustainable development. Learn more about the MDP Program and read our other MDP Student Spotlights.
