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Anastasia Mamabolo, Associate Professor at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) and at the University of Pretoria, is a visionary leader in entrepreneurship. Her work is shaping how entrepreneurship is taught and highlighting the critical role of research and mentorship in driving economic growth across Africa.  Anastasia's research identifies the essential skills entrepreneurs need at different stages of their ventures. “My research looks at the skills entrepreneurs require when they start their businesses and how these skills evolve as the businesses grow,” she shared. Her work has resulted in a comprehensive framework that training institutions can use to measure and develop entrepreneurial skills, ensuring tailored support for aspiring business owners.  One of her proudest achievements is the publication of a paper on the role of religion in entrepreneurship, which was recognized as the Best Paper for 2022 by the Journal of World Business. “This recognition is a testament to the relevance of understanding not just the economic but also the cultural and spiritual dimensions of entrepreneurship in Africa,” she said.  In addition to her research, Anastasia was recently appointed the APSA Chair of Entrepreneurship at GIBS, a role that will enable her to lead several initiatives, including a school incubation program for entrepreneurial training and the development of an African Entrepreneurship Index. “This index will measure the competencies of entrepreneurs across Africa, helping us build a credible database that researchers and practitioners can use to improve entrepreneurial development,” she explained.  AAP’s Role in Her Journey  Anastasia’s journey as a researcher has been significantly shaped by the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP). Introduced to AAP by her former dean, Professor Nicola Klein, Anastasia participated in the African Futures Research Leadership Program, which provided her with the opportunity to focus on her research, gain mentorship, and collaborate with international scholars.  “The mentorship I received through AAP was invaluable,” Anastasia emphasized. Under the guidance of Professor Jerry McNamara, a leading strategy scholar, she learned how to conduct high-quality research that resonates with both African and global audiences. “AAP helped me build my confidence as a scholar, gave me an academic voice, and equipped me to bridge the gap between research and practice,” she added.  The Future: Strengthening African Entrepreneurship  Looking to the future, Anastasia envisions becoming a thought leader in African entrepreneurship research. “We don’t have enough research on the incredible entrepreneurial activities happening across the continent,” she said. “My goal is to strengthen the voice of African researchers in this field and foster collaborations that will advance entrepreneurship.”  She also plans to focus on bridging the gap between academia and practice by supporting students in their research efforts, developing actionable insights for entrepreneurs, and continuing her work through the APSA Chair to promote financial inclusion and access to resources for African entrepreneurs.  Advice for Early Career Researchers  Reflecting on her journey, Anastasia emphasized the importance of mentorship and the integration of research into academic work. “Mentorship is crucial for early-career researchers. I was fortunate to have a mentor who guided me through academia, helping me position myself as a research-focused academic,” she noted.  Her advice to young scholars? “Don't neglect your research. Incorporate it into your teaching, and don’t be afraid to seek mentorship—even from those outside your field. It’s through collaboration and consistent research efforts that you’ll grow and make meaningful contributions.”  Anastasia’s work exemplifies the impact of research, mentorship, and dedication to advancing entrepreneurship in Africa. With her leadership, the future of African entrepreneurship looks promising and filled with potential for growth and innovation.