Get to know Mandisa Lakheni, Senior Customer Training Specialist in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mandisa is our resident Library and Information Science guru who helps libraries and their end-users get the most out of their EBSCO resources through online and in-person training sessions.
What is your role within EBSCO?
I am part of the training team responsible for Sub-Saharan Africa. I offer onsite and online training sessions that cover multiple EBSCO products in all markets to both existing and prospective EBSCO customers in the region.
Explain your job as you would to a 5-year-old.
I am a teacher.
What is the best aspect of your job?
Ensuring that EBSCO customers get the best return on their investment with EBSCO by showing them all the features and benefits of the products and platforms while aligning that to fit for purpose for their needs. Building relationships with librarians/customers is another highlight that makes my job fulfilling.
How long have you worked at EBSCO?
I joined EBSCO in September 2015.
How has your work changed in recent years? How do you think it will evolve in the future?
There have been many changes over the years. EBSCO has introduced a number of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) products as well as databases during my employment. The Ultimates databases, for example, are a new addition. At some point, FOLIO was just an idea, and now it is one of EBSCO’s exciting SaaS offerings. When I started, I used to offer mostly onsite training, which meant a lot of traveling, whereas now I am able to offer online sessions as well. I believe the penetration of library solutions, such as FOLIO and Panorama, will make EBSCO even more central in library and information-providing agencies.
Did you attend college/university? If so, what did you study?
Yes, I studied Library and Information Services. In 2022, I completed my Master of Information Technology: Information Science from the University of Pretoria.
What excites you most about EBSCO’s future?
I am always excited by the innovative culture at EBSCO. This has ensured that my work is always fresh as I learn new technologies and product knowledge. Working with dynamic colleagues, who are always willing to share their knowledge, is also exciting.
What is something you would like to learn?
FOLIO is really fascinating to me. It is amazing how the library community worked together to create the newest library service platform to be launched in a decade.
What was the last book you read?
Still Grazing: The Musical Journey of Hugh Masekela by Hugh Masekela and D. Michael Cheers.
How do you define success?
Having a balance in life and understanding my different roles and responsibilities while purposefully fulfilling them.
What is the best way to reach you?
mlakheni@ebsco.com | 011 380 1800