Dr Ricardo Virgill Smart from Blackheath has recently been elected as one of Africa’s Brightest Young Minds, a huge honour. TygerBurger spoke to Smart who has a doctorate in wine biotechnology.
How do you feel about the recognition?
I was ecstatic to know that I had been chosen as one of 100 young professionals to represent Africa’s brightest young minds. This year has been an exceptionally good year for me, starting with earning my Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Wine Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University, followed by my election as the alumni representative of the International Leadership Council for the Golden Key International Honor Society, and now this recognition.
How are the brightest minds chosen?
When Brightest Young Minds (BYM), a registered NPC in South Africa, announced their search for empowered young leaders and professionals who can drive our continent forward, Dr Elmie Castleman, Director of Golden Key Southern Africa, nominated me to apply. Dr Castleman has recognised my passion for community service for more than a decade, as well as my participation in several leadership roles throughout my tertiary education. Hence, she believed I would be a great fit for such an opportunity.
The BYM is a prestigious platform to inspire and mobilise young leaders who can address current and future social, economic, and environmental challenges on the continent. Their mission is to provide young professionals with the knowledge, perspective, and necessary networks to bring about meaningful changes in Africa over the long term. The successful candidates for Africa’s Brightest Young Minds were elected by a multi-disciplinary selection panel.
What kind of doors will this open for you?
I am excited to connect with influential leaders in South Africa and across the continent to have in-depth discussions about this year’s theme, “Feed the Future.” This prestigious platform enables Africa’s most ambitious leaders to think innovatively, collaborate, and find solutions to overcome food system challenges in Africa. I am also confident that being part of the BYM will help me grow personally and professionally and improve my soft skills, especially creativity and problem-solving.
What are your plans going forward?
Without giving too much away, I have taken part in a number of new initiatives that have made me incredibly happy to witness children gaining self-confidence. For the coming year, I do have some brand-new, exciting projects planned. I have also identified a few positions I would like to fill in the corporate world. Hence, I will be pursuing future studies on a part-time basis starting next year. Since I firmly believe that “knowledge is power and the key to innovative thinking”, I think it is crucial that one continues to educate themselves.
