University of Pretoria Announces 2026 Gardener of Governance™ Award Winners for Internal Audit Excellence
The University of Pretoria's annual Gardener of Governance™ Award recognizes outstanding internal audit research and practice. This year's winners, Elzandie van Zyl and Zanri Hanekom, highlight the critical role of internal audit in fostering strong corporate governance through stakeholder engagement, trust, transparency, and continuous improvement. Their work underscores internal audit's function as a "gardener" nurturing organizational health and sustainability, a concept vital for audit professionals seeking to elevate their strategic impact.
Recognizing Excellence in Internal Audit Research
The Dr. Rainer Lenz – The Gardener of Governance™ Annual Award at the University of Pretoria (UP) continues its tradition of celebrating exceptional contributions to internal audit research and practice. This prestigious award acknowledges students who demonstrate superior performance in the Internal Auditing (IAU700) and Internal Financial Control (IAU704 Capstone) courses. The initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding and application of governance principles within the internal audit profession, encouraging future leaders to think critically about their role in organizational stewardship.
2026 Award Winners Champion Governance and Trust
The 2026 Gardener of Governance™ Award was presented to Elzandie van Zyl. Her winning paper delves into the crucial link between stakeholder engagement and robust corporate governance. Van Zyl's research emphasizes the collaborative responsibility of management, as "guardians of governance," and internal auditors, as "gardeners of governance," in cultivating trust, transparency, and continuous improvement to safeguard organizations from mediocrity. This perspective is particularly relevant for internal audit professionals looking to enhance their strategic influence and demonstrate tangible value beyond traditional compliance functions.
Special Recognition for Innovative Governance Concepts
In addition to the main award, a Special Recognition for Best Essay was introduced in 2026, with Zanri Hanekom receiving this honor. Hanekom's essay presents governance as a dynamic, living ecosystem, where management acts as guardians and internal audit serves as the gardener, nurturing sustainable growth. This metaphorical approach provides a compelling framework for understanding the interdependent roles within an organization's governance structure. Both award-winning works, sponsored by the WÜRTH Group since 2025, underscore the evolving nature of internal audit's responsibilities and its pivotal role in ensuring long-term organizational health and resilience.
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