Jonathan Manning is Group Managing Director at Osmond Lange + Ikemeleng Architects. He made his home in Johannesburg in 1999 after completing his studies at the Bartlett School of Architecture in London. His professional journey in South Africa has included periods working in the offices of Peter Rich as well as OMM Design Workshop + Urban Solutions. In 2004, he co-founded Ikemeleng Architects, a practice that cut its teeth on public infrastructure projects including the Rea Vaya BRT and O.R. Tambo International Airport. Jonathan’s architectural interests are located as much in the voids between buildings as in buildings themselves. Set against the backdrop of South Africa’s immense inequality and incredible spatial distortion, the focus of much of Ikemeleng’s work has been on the public realm in Johannesburg, on the vital negative spaces where experience is collective, where sovereignty is shared and where common identity is forged (or at least should be). Jonathan speaks regularly both locally and internationally at conferences and symposiums on this topic and others linked to work of Osmond Lange + Ikemeleng.

We're delighted to announce a new appointment at the GSA. Leslé Ince-Garcia joins us as Senior Executive PA to Prof Lokko and Communications Officer with the Communications Team. After a successful career as a project manager in the corporate environment, Leslé finds herself back in the tertiary education environment, which is where she started her career. Prior to joining the GSA Leslé was a Community Engagement Specialist and Alumni Project Manager at the University of Johannesburg. She holds a Master's degree in Public Relations Management from CPUT and a Bachelor's degree in Education from UJ. Leslé enjoys spending time with her family, which includes the human and furry members, as well as doing DIY projects around the house.

The GSA is 'braanching' out into Braamfontein! A brand-new review and gallery space will be added to the GSA's two locations - GSA Main (at FADA) and GSA MOAD (Museum of African Design). The new 200m2 space is perfect for projection, film and reviews, with academic offices and a small gallery at the rear. Located in the heart of Braamfontein, it will be up and running by the start of the new academic year. We're looking forward to the opening wine bar!