Mamphela Ramphele

Manfila Lanfiler, a South African, is the Executive Chairman of Circle Capital Ventures, a private equity investment company dedicated to revitalizing the black economy through the development of growth oriented enterprises and population investment. She holds board positions in multiple large enterprises. From May 2000 to July 2004, Manfila served as the Executive Director of the World Bank. As a member of the senior leadership team, she is responsible for managing the institution's human development activities in areas such as education, health, nutrition, population, and social protection, and providing learning and training to employees and clients of the World Bank Research Institute. In addition, she also provides supervision and guidance on knowledge, information and communication technology for the World Bank Group. From 2004 to 2005, she served as co chair of the Global Committee on International Migration GCIM. In 1996, Manfila Lanfeller became the Vice President of the University of Cape Town, becoming the first black woman among all universities in South Africa to hold this position. In 1986, she became a researcher at the University of Cape Town and was appointed as Vice President five years later. She has written many important works on major socio-economic issues in South Africa. Manfila Lanfiler has won numerous renowned national and international awards, honorary doctoral titles, and scholarships. She has played an important role in community service, addressing the development issues of vulnerable groups in South Africa, and promoting project implementation. In 1972, Manfila graduated from Natal University as a medical doctor. She holds a PhD in Social Anthropology from the University of Cape Town, a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of South Africa, and a degree certificate in Tropical Health and Hygiene Public Health from the University of Witwatersrand.