As the Director of FSAI, Dr. Sarudzai Mutana-Simango is responsible for shaping the institute’s strategic direction and operations, while strengthening cooperation between Finland and Southern Africa. With over 17 years of leadership experience in higher education, she brings deep expertise and a passion for fostering dialogue and collaboration across education, science, culture, and business. She believes that partnerships, research-driven innovations, and the development of technology and communities pave the way for a new era in Southern Africa.
What brought you to join the Institute’s work?
I am passionate about improving collaboration between Southern Africa and Finland across science, culture, education, and business. Having been born and educated in Southern Africa, I have an appreciation of the diverse cultural, educational, scientific and business aspirations of the region. I have a zeal to contribute to Southern Africa’s developmental goals by building bridges for mutual collaboration. This role provides me with a unique opportunity to foster collaboration between Finnish actors and their counterparts in Southern African countries. That way, I get the opportunity to contribute to the development goals of both Finland and the Southern African Region.
What do you especially want to focus on in your new role?
As the Director of the FSAI, my primary emphasis lies in defining the strategic path of the organization. Additionally, I prioritize the establishment of a conducive culture by fostering a cooperative team environment. Clear communication among both team members and stakeholders is a key focus of mine. Furthermore, I develop strategic alliances with stakeholders in education, science, culture, and business in Finland and Southern Africa, aiming to identify and establish mutual areas of collaboration and benefit.
What does intercultural cooperation or collaboration with Southern Africa mean to you personally?
In my perspective, intercultural collaboration represents a complex process of engagement and reciprocal learning. This process entails recognizing, valuing, and cooperating with the various cultures found in Southern Africa to attain common objectives. It seeks to foster a profound comprehension of cultural nuances that goes beyond mere observation of traditions, delving into the underlying values, beliefs, and perspectives. Successful intercultural collaboration must be founded on principles of mutual respect and empathy, alongside the application of Ubuntu, which highlights the importance of community interdependence. In my capacity, intercultural collaboration will involve pinpointing, involving, and reaching consensus on knowledge transfer and sharing that promotes mutually advantageous sustainable development, contributing to enhanced regional and international integration.
What is your favorite way to relax after a workday?
I engage in baking. I consider it a soothing activity for the mind, as it embodies a state of mindfulness. It provides me with an opportunity to express my creativity and instills a feeling of achievement and mastery. The requirement for exact measurements and specific procedures in baking captivates my attention, effectively diminishing negative thoughts and the presence of stress hormones. The scent of newly baked goods further contributes to my mental relaxation.
If you could recommend one book, film or place, what would it be and why?
I highly suggest reading the book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck (PhD). The author argues that success is determined not by one’s intelligence but rather by the mindset of the individual. When focused on growth, this mindset serves as a form of personal capital, fostering resilience and enhancing one’s sense of fulfillment. Individuals who possess a growth mindset view challenges and failures as opportunities for learning, welcome constructive feedback, and consistently seek ways to improve themselves.
