How Milpark's Online MBA Transformed Lunga Mfene’s Career

When Lunga embarked on his MBA at Milpark, he never imagined the profound impact it would have on his career and life.

As Divisional Buyer in the Grocery Division of The Shoprite Group—South Africa’s largest retailer—he works in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. Each product category must deliver results through strong supplier relationships, efficient logistics and effective promotions.

“Previously I focused on product category sales. Today I manage product availability, customer satisfaction, sales growth and profit and make sure they align with Shoprite’s strategy,” he explains.

What once felt like routine tasks, Lunga now views as opportunities. “I challenge assumptions, innovate and navigate complexity. I feel I have grown from a functional manager to a strategic leader,” he adds with conviction.

Today, Lunga also approaches personal difficulties with a critical-thinking mindset.

While the retail market remains tough and supply chains volatile, Lunga is confident he has the knowledge and tools to respond effectively.

At the heart of Lunga’s success is Milpark’s flexible online MBA programme which he describes as both structured and academically rigorous.

Lunga dedicates roughly 40 hours a week to his studies, attending weekly evening classes from 18:00 to 20:00 and two-hour sessions on Saturdays, then managing his own schedule to study at his own pace.

He praises Milpark Business School’s team, whose lecturers are responsive, offer personalised support and bring real-world experience to their teaching. “I engage meaningfully with lecturers and classmates while course materials and multimedia resources are easy to access,” he says.

When he hit a standstill with his academic writing, the head of the School met with him immediately to provide guidance. In facilitated group sessions, Lunga and his classmates debate and collaborate to solve simulated real-world business challenges. “I find these sessions dynamic and inspiring. We learn from one another—and it is a lot of fun,” he says.

This interactive approach proves that online learning need not be a lonely journey.

It is hard to believe that after earning his Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) in Business in 2001, Lunga had no interest in further study and launched his retail career instead.

When his friends ignited his ambition to pursue an MBA eight years later, his hopes for a bursary or study loan from his then-employer were quickly dashed. “I realised no one was going to sponsor my MBA,” he recalls. “That very day, I started saving—no extras, no credit.”

With enough saved, Lunga began researching MBA programmes. Milpark stood out: one of South Africa’s top business schools, fully accredited, with affordable fees, flexible payment options and a sophisticated online platform.

But another hurdle soon appeared. When he contacted Milpark to register, the consultant explained that his B. Tech was not sufficient—he first needed a postgraduate qualification. Lunga was stunned. Yet the very next day, in June 2023, he enrolled in Milpark’s Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration.

He now sees what once felt like a set-back as a vital stepping stone. “The diploma was the perfect foundation for my MBA, sharpening my writing, critical thinking and research skills. It made the transition to my MBA in June 2024 seamless,” he reflects.

Read More: Never Too Late for Kim: Milpark’s Top PGDA Student Tackles MBA

For every MBA student, the dissertation is the ultimate test. Lunga wrestled with finding a topic that inspired him—until a conversation with a supplier sparked an idea.

“There was a shortage of hake, and I had to find out why,” he recalls. “The supplier explained that ocean warming was affecting fish reproduction—the fish need cold water to lay their eggs. Boats had to travel further to find them, which put enormous pressure on suppliers.”

That moment became the turning point for his dissertation—a topic closely connected to his work at Shoprite.

His dissertation, The Effect of Climate Change on Food Retail in South Africa, became the culmination of months of research, interviews, data analysis and writing—supported by Milpark’s Business School team.

This experience has deepened Lunga’s appreciation of leadership’s ethical, social and environmental responsibilities.

“My MBA has been a turning point in my career. The journey has tested every part of me—my discipline, resilience and ability to balance demanding work with intense academic pressure,” Lunga reflects. “It has also proved that success relies on time, effort and consistency. I never became complacent.”

He smiles. “Nothing for Mahala—nothing for free.”

Modules 16 and 17—Integrated Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship and Innovation—are next, and Lunga is eager to tackle them. Time with family and friends keeps him grounded. “Family means everything. When I find time to enjoy a braai with friends, it helps me recharge,” he shares.

And when it comes to shopping, his loyalty is clear: “Shoprite pays my salary, so of course I support our brands. Besides, I trust the quality and pricing.”

Transform your career with Milpark - just like Lunga.
Apply for your online MBA today and take the next step toward strategic leadership.