routes Alumni Newsletter

Edition 4 • November 2009

New directorate 2009 highlights Alumni up-date A new alumni A reflection on the Find your old friends relations director Page 3 year that was Page 7 around the world Pages 13 - 15 A word from the Alumni Directorate

The establishment of a directorate for To avoid gaps in relationship building alumni relations is an indication of we will have to start the lifelong Alumni staff how much NMMU values alumni as a relationship process at recruitment and stakeholder group. maintain relationships with students Alumni represent the success stories while at NMMU. Here our Student of the university not only as graduates Alumni Society will have to play a major but as global citizens making a role creating awareness of the role and difference in the various disciplines value of alumni to current students. and sectors. Establishing national and interna- Your success is our success and our tional alumni chapters, establishing a combined successes increase the new Alumni Annual Fund, improving value of your qualification. alumni benefits, introducing Alumni We are excited about the opportu- Awards and building an Alumni nity to build mutually beneficial rela- House, are all part of the plan. tionships with The support of our our alumni Your success is our alumni is crucial in and friends. success and our realising all these Friends in- goals. Our Convo- clude parents of combined successes cation representa- students and gradu- increase the value of tives on Council, ates, donors, gover- your qualification. our Alumni Ex- At your service … Baakier Abrahams, University Shop Manager and nors, advisors, em- ecutive Committee Santosh Ramadu, Alumni Realtions Officer ,form part of the new Alumni Directorate geared to serve NMMU alumni. ployers, short course candidates and and individual alumni played a major community leaders. role in raising the profile of alumni. We also have a major task of en- Our VC, executive management, Alumni Consortium. The Consortium in- Alumni Relations Director and to play gaging with alumni from former Council and NMMU Trustees have all cludes all southern African higher edu- a role in alumni relations develop- UPE, PE Technikon and the PE cam- supported the establishment of the cation alumni practitioners who gather ment on a national level. pus of Vista University as well as Alumni Directorate. Your support is to share best practice. NMMU was re- We are here to serve and celebrate NMMU graduates. We have about even more important. elected to chair the Consortium – a sign our alumni and we all look forward 72 000 alumni on record with an aver- Earlier this year, the newly-estab- of confidence in our leadership and vi- to an exciting experience in building age of 5000 graduates added to that lished NMMU Alumni Directorate sion for alumni relations nationally. great relationships and an even great- figure every year. hosted a successful Southern African I am honoured to be the first NMMU er NMMU. - Paul GG Geswindt

• PO Box 77000 New Trust Contact us • Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University We want to hear from you! • • 6031 Tel: +27 (0) 41 504 3935 appointment Send your updated details to: Fax: +27 (0) 41 504 1965 Postal adress E-mail: [email protected] Prof Kotie Grové was appointed the • Alumni Relations Office Website: www.nmmu.ac.za/alumni new Legacy Programme Director on 1 September 2009, still fulfilling his role as NMMU Trust Executive Director Ugandan chapter founded while the new executive director is appointed. New role… Prof Kotie Grové, was NMMU has forged stronger links with Uganda, with the establishment of its The Legacy Programme’s position appointed the new Legacy Programmes first alumni chapter in Africa. was created by the Trust to raise funds Director. The founding of the chapter in Kampala formalises a relationship that NMMU by means of soliciting and encouraging university since 1971 as lecturer and had with the East African country over the past five years. bequests and donations from selected professor in Greek and Latin. He was Close to 50 Ugandan students are presently studying at NMMU and many more alumni and other individuals on a also the first full-time Dean of Students are now interested in making NMMU their study institution of choice. national and international basis. from 1989 to 1993. The Trust is chaired by Dr Xolani Prof Grové has served in the capacity Mkhwanazi, chairman of BHP Billiton. of president and chairperson of the The Legacy Programme entails cricket club for more than 20 years and creating and encouraging friendships chairperson of the Executive Sports between alumni (older generation Committee for five years. He ranks his alumni) and the university. association with university sport as “The programme must ensure that one of the highlights of his career. these legacies benefit the university “I am in the fortunate position of in every possible way and the people knowing many students who studied involved receive the necessary here since the beginning of the uni- New chapter founded… From NMMU Dr Waswa, Dr Nico Jooste, Paul Geswindt, Dr Nsubugu, Prof Andrew Leitch and Dennis Sekiwu at the Uganda alumni chapter acknowledgement,” said Prof Grové, versity in 1965 and many of them are function. who has been involved with the indeed close friends,” said Prof Grové. 2 Connected to you R1 billion endowment needed by 2020 Meet the Funding vital to new Alumni Relations NMMU growth Director R1 billion. That’s what NMMU wants as an endow- SERVING and engaging with over 72 000 ment by 2020, and with Vice-Chancellor Prof Derrick NMMU alumni forms part of Paul Geswindt’s Swartz at the helm there’s every chance it will have mandate as newly appointed Alumni Relations secured this capital funding to support the univer- Director. sity’s future growth needs, long before then. According to Paul, alumni represent the In the 18 short months since his arrival, Prof Swartz success stories of an institution. “They are the has triggered a number of strategic shifts at NMMU, best brand ambassadors because their sphere including finalisation of Vision 2020, a project articu- of influence has global reach. Alumni must be lating what kind of university we want to be. As a result, part of this growth cycle by contributing to and the new vision and mission means there has to be a benefitting from the process,” he said. sustained period of investment in staff, student sup- In 1990 he graduated with a BCom(Ed) port, laboratories, modernisation of current buildings and in 2005, with a Postgraduate Diploma in and the building of new infrastructure. Educational Management from UPE. He also “Without a robust revenue model and cost has postgraduate qualifications in Business and structure, this vision cannot be realised,” Prof Swartz Marketing Management. shared with Routes. He started working at the former UPE in 1998 To do this, NMMU is being revamped to increase as marketing manager and was promoted its fundraising capacity to reach new markets with to deputy director of Communication and the central purpose of building a R1 billion strong Marketing Services in 2002. He served as deputy endowment. In this context, the alumni function has director of Marketing and Alumni Relations been moved from Marketing and Corporate Relations from 2005 to 2009 at NMMU. to the NMMU Trust. His previous positions include teacher and “The alumni function, because of its critical nexus subject head at Paterson High School in Port with 72 000-plus alumni, has a crucial role to play Elizabeth and deputy chief education specialist Visionary … Vice-Chancellor Prof Derrick Swartz in the advancement mandate of the Trust. For this in the Department of Education (). envisions alumni contributing directly to the reason, as is the practice in North America and welfare of its alma mater. He is passionate about community service elsewhere, these two functions must work very and serves on a number of community trusts. closely together.” His personal motto is “Be the Change”. As part of the step-up campaign, NMMU has also huge financial dividends,” he says, referring to the Paul also served on the UPE Council as a staff raised the platform of the alumni function to a new extraordinary success of Barack Obama’s electoral representative and was President of the UPE directorate (see page 2). campaign in which thousands of average to poor Alumni Association. He is currently NMMU “Within five years, this office will be three times income-earning Americans gave small monthly President of Convocation, Chairperson of the bigger, with wide-ranging networks linking our contributions to the fundraising campaign. Southern African Alumni Consortium and is a alumni from all over the “Our alumni are extremely member of the Association of Commonwealth world into NMMU’s Our alumni are important to us. They are Universities’ Marketing and PR Steering advancement drive. Every extremely important ambassadors who can do work Committee. single alumnus counts in that we can never do in all parts “The new Alumni Relations Directorate is this campaign.” to us. They are of the world. evidence of how important NMMU views its And Prof Swartz, for one, can’t ambassadors who can “We want them to share – and alumni and their role in making NMMU even wait for it to get going. do work that we can be a part of – the exciting changes greater,” said Paul. “I feel like Usain Bolt in the never do in all parts of that still lie ahead for NMMU.” starting blocks.” the world. And as a man deeply committed In outlining his vision of the to serving society, Prof Swartz future role of alumni, Prof Swartz is confident alumni who give indicated that the “associational” link between their own money will enjoy a deeper “emotional NMMU and its former students would always be a connection to a dream that they helped to build, that central part of what the university does. they have helped the next generation, just like they “We want our alumni to keep the memory of their too were helped. That’s the reward”. experiences here alive.” NMMU also plans to build a dedicated alumni But the philanthropist you will find difficult to centre, called Alumni House, overlooking the lake on Newly appointed ... refuse, also wants alumni to directly contribute to the South Campus. The centre, which will have function Alumni Relations future welfare of its alma mater and strongly believes facilities and offices for alumni staff and Trust, is Director, Paul everyone counts in the “giving back” campaign. expected to be completed within the next two to Geswindt. “Giving a little repeated 1000-fold can reap three years. New beginnings 3 City’s university contributes to economic vitality of the metro What NMMU brings to the Bay

Across the globe, universities are playing environment.” BUSINESS LEADER… an increasing role in the economic vitality, Hustler said NMMU itself contributed to the local Kevin Hustler, new competitiveness and sustainability of their economy, not only as an employer and purchaser chief executive of the Port Elizabeth surrounding regions – and Nelson Mandela of goods and services, but also through the foreign Chamber of Metropolitan University is no exception. students it attracted to the city. Commerce and NMMU prides itself on research that is relevant to There are currently 2 160 registered international Industry (Percci) and the community it serves and, as a result, is regarded students at NMMU, mostly from Africa, and NMMU alumnus. as a key contributor across a broad range of critical particularly the Southern African Development areas, from business and industry to community Community (SADC) regions. development, tourism, conservation, and many Marian Neale-Shutte, senior manager for academic initiatives across the Eastern Cape, and working more. engagement and research at NMMU’s Office for closely with the likes of the Mantis Collection, which Kevin Hustler, new chief executive of the Port International Education, said: “They choose NMMU includes Shamwari Game Reserve. Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Percci) as it has built up a reputation for good, quality John O’Brien, group ecologist for the Mantis and an alumnus of NMMU, said: “Having a university education at an affordable price.” Collection, said: “Wildlife (conservation) in the the size and calibre of NMMU Apart from the financial Eastern Cape is a relatively new concept, compared is a vital component in Having a university investment they are making with other provinces. However, it has really taken developing Nelson Mandela the size and calibre through tuition fees and living off over the last few years, resulting in significant Bay as a world-class city. of NMMU is a vital expenses, many foreign students socio-economic growth. But, along with that comes “The university is making an component in take time to travel the country, ecological responsibility, and this is where the important contribution to the city, thereby contributing to tourism university has helped to contribute.” in terms of research and innovation developing Nelson spend in the area. The Mantis Collection has a memorandum of that supports business and industry. Mandela Bay as a And while most return home understanding with NMMU, which involves a variety This definitely helps to attract new world-class city. after completing their studies, of cross-faculty activities, from water purification to investors and develop skills that are some choose to stay and work in renewable energy and conservation science. relevant to the needs of local businesses.” Port Elizabeth and elsewhere in . Nelson Mandela Bay community leader Mike Percci works hand in hand with NMMU and other Over and above attracting foreign students, Nelson Pantsi, founder of Imbewu Community Volunteers – stakeholders on a number of projects, including Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) marketing manager which runs programmes to encourage responsible the Percci Service Excellence Programme, ongoing Titus Chuene said NMMU had the expertise to play citizenship and sustainable social development – industrial development research, and “green” an even greater role in tourism development in said universities were an important resource for initiatives within businesses. the city and region, and talks were under way to communities, and there was mutual benefit to be Hustler, who graduated from NMMU with a BSc collaboratively develop a tourism research hub at the gained by narrowing the gap between academic (Quantity Surveying) in 1988, said: “My own degree university. researchers and those working at grassroots level. was excellent preparation for my working career. Even He said the university’s ability to collect accurate Pantsi himself was instrumental in sparking NMMU though I have not continued in quantity surveying, statistics about visitors to the city would help the research into the healing properties of the plants used the grounding I received in terms of practical skills, city identify its customers, and channel its marketing in traditional medicine – which has led to promising understanding world views, and being able to think drive in the right direction – thereby growing tourism results in the area of diabetes and other diseases. creatively and engage critically has helped me even more. He said the scope for university/community contribute to the shaping of a challenging business The university is also a key player in conservation collaboration was enormous. 4 Building relations NMMU aims to develop the country’s first high-tech, ‘clean’ business school Business School goes ‘green’ Teaching future business leaders about the sustainability we teach.” sustainability of the earth’s limited resources In preparation for the anticipated new building, the through ethical business practices has long instilling of a “greener” culture among school staff is been a priority at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan vital, and Naudé has already set the ball in motion. University’s Business School. “The Business School is currently operating from Now, determined to lead by example, it is hoping NMMU’s Bird Street Campus (which will be sold). We to develop the country’s first high-tech, “green” can’t change the buildings, which are very old, but business school, with almost no reliance on Eskom’s we are going to start putting into practice the ‘green’ energy grid. processes we teach.” It is envisioned that the new school, likely to be There will be small changes at first – the built on NMMU’s Second Avenue Campus within replacement of conventional light-bulbs with long-life the next three years, may be linked to an upmarket ones, switching off lights when they are not needed, hotel, run by students completing a BCom in hotel reducing the use of air conditioners, insulating management – a new degree still being finalised geysers and recycling paper and other waste. Bigger by the university. The hotel would accommodate changes – like utilising video conferences to cut out students attending courses at the Business School. flights – will also be adopted. “I want to create a While plans are still to be drawn up, it is anticipated new, ‘green’ consciousness.” that the new school would rely on sun and wind By the end of the year, Naudé hopes all staff in A ‘GREEN’ APPROACH… Ethics professor Piet energy, with collected the Business School will have Naudé, Director of NMMU’s Business School, is driving a landmark project, which could see the development of rainwater meeting its bought into this “greener” way We are building our total the country’s first “green” business school. water needs. of doing things, paving the way “We want to be economy on 98% non- for a smooth transition to the carefully, to ensure they have suitable experience for Africa’s first ‘green’ business renewable energy. This proposed new building. the job at hand. “There will no doubt be a high initial school,” said ethics professor is a major challenge for “Our hope is that the new outlay but this will be recouped in savings on water and school director Piet Naudé, businesses in the 21st building would be designed and electricity.” who is leading the project. century in such a way that its energy Tied in with the ‘green’ changes, Naudé is also “We are building our reliance on the Eskom grid hoping to introduce a pledge for students completing total economy on 98% non- will be minimal. Sun and wind their Master's in Business Administration (MBA), in renewable energy. This is a major challenge for energy could run the computers (although the which they would agree to run their businesses in an businesses in the 21st century … The next war will building would still be linked to Eskom for days when environmentally and socially responsible manner. “I more than likely be over water and energy.” sun does not shine), while rain-water could run want to create a business school with a different edge Faced with these sobering facts, the Business through the toilet and irrigation systems.” – one that is appropriate for 21st century challenges. School makes a point of teaching its students about In fact, Naudé is hoping the envisioned school will “Fifteen years from now, we need to be asking the sustainable use of paper, waste reduction and ultimately receive NMMU’s first green star rating the question: Have we made a contribution to ways to reduce a company’s carbon footprint. from the Green Building Council of South Africa. the environment? Ethics is not just a theory, it’s a “It is vital that we ourselves are an example of the Both the architect and builder will be chosen practice.”

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On top 5 NMMU is growing – physically By the end of 2010, the establishments you may remember as the PE Technikon, the University of Port Elizabeth and the Port Elizabeth campus of Vista University, will have had almost R260m invested in them since 2007 by way of infrastructure and upgrades. “What is happening physically right now far exceeds anything else that is happening at any other higher education institution in South Africa,” said NMMU Director: Projects and Planning Stuart Blignaut. The multiple projects – about 50 all told that have either recently been completed or are ongoing – on each of NMMU’s six campuses, including George, are all part of the university’s drive to ensure that its STATE OF THE ART … The new Missionvale Campus Library (already at roof height) boasts “green building principles”, and will be one of the first buildings in South Africa to incorporate a system that relies on sensors to students are afforded the best possible facilities for control its lighting levels as well as carbon dioxide sensors to ensure energy efficiency. their particular learning needs. “As a merged university it was imperative that all at R9.4m that will “vastly reduce waiting time for New library campuses receive the necessary infrastructure,” said students”. Four new computer labs Blignaut, himself an NMMU alumnus. Ongoing concrete rehabilitation valued at R8.5m. A new student centre and classrooms That’s why whichever campus you might visit right North Campus (former PE Technikon) – R15.8m Upgrade of water and sewage systems now, there will be building activity – a tangible sign New computer lab A new reservoir of a university constantly striving for excellence, Expansion of the engineering buildings A new waste water treatment plant to meet the thanks mainly to Department of Education funding. A 200-seater lecture hall needs of this growing campus. Missionvale (former PE campus of Vista University) Major projects – R103m South Campus (former UPE) – R89.7m A new library A R45m lecture hall complex with 500-, 250- A dedicated student centre A green approach and 200-seater facilities to be ready for the 2010 Upgrading of computer laboratories, lecture halls NMMU has taken the “green” infrastructure student-intake. and facilities at the province’s biggest indoor centre route. A link road between North and South campuses A new entrance and fencing Wherever possible the university is adhering to and the possibility of another link road to the new A new greenhouse and traditional medicine “green” design principles as part of its mission to lecture hall complex that will further improve garden reduce its own carbon footprint. traffic flow. Second Avenue – R16.3m As a result, the present upgrading of the South An additional 265 parking bays. Conversion of the gymnasium to an archive facility Campus library means that its new ventilation A R28m “green” revamp of lighting and Upgrading the library and lighting systems will be a first for such a building in Africa and bring it in line with top ventilation at the library. George Campus (former Saasveld Campus) – R34.6m buildings internationally. New lifts in the main building and library valued New lecture hall complex Supporting Eastern Cape biofuels industry The National Fuel Chemicals Centre tion Renewable Fuels project in Coega. (NFCC) to be constructed at Nelson Man- A third major fuels facility – PetroSA’s dela Metropolitan University early next project “Mthombo” Oil Refinery – a year will play a key role in supporting world-class refinery set to be Africa’s the biofuels and transport fuels indus- biggest, is also on the cards for Coega tries generally in the Eastern Cape. and due for commissioning in 2015. The NFCC – part of a R25 million The NFCC, which has been approved expansion project at InnoVenton, by the Department of Science and NMMU’s Institute of Chemical Tech- Technology, and is being funded by nology – will house a state-of-the-art industry and the university, will be NEW OPPORTUNITIES ... Looking forward to the establishment of the National fuels laboratory, which will be used for capable of serving the automotive and Fuel Chemicals Centre at NMMU are (from left) InnoVenton director Prof Ben Zeelie, developing and chemically testing new aviation industries, along with other InnoVenton deputy director of technology demonstration Dr Gary Dugmore and and improved fuels and fuel products. liquid fuels consumers, through the InnoVenton deputy director of technology support Geoff Ritson. Geoff Ritson, deputy director of tech- analysis of fuel samples. nology support at InnoVenton, said the It is well-placed at InnoVenton, which areas of chemical mixtures and blend pilot project using marine algae to centre was especially critical in light of already has an accredited, independent design. convert carbon dioxide into biofuels two government-approved biofuels analytical laboratory and pilot plant, In fact, InnoVenton is already and other products. plants being planned for the Eastern capable of researching fuel-type running its own biofuels research. In “The Eastern Cape is being targeted Cape: Phyto Energy Group’s biodiesel separation and preparation, and well- partnership with other South African as the country’s primary region for plant in East London and Rainbow Na- qualified laboratory staff, skilled in the universities, it has started a unique biofuel production.“ 6 In touch This has been an eventful and fulfilling year for NMMU, with international and national acclaim for arts, finance, science and sport as well as 2009 HIGHLIGHTS the opening of our new George building and welcoming our new mascot, Diba. Madibaz Highlights include: All teams and universities have nicknames, or names by which they are popularly known, and NMMU needed one too. Madibaz and Diba the dolphin, our first-ever nickname and mascot, were introduced Mechatronics to a large number of excited students and staff at the university’s South Campus on 30 July. General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has invested R3.6m in a Chair in Mechatronics at NMMU. We are now the only university in the Eastern Cape to offer the Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechatronics, a qualification that fuses expertise in various fields of engineering, including electronics, mechanical engineering and computer-aided design.

Game drives NMMU is the only university in South Africa to offer fully-fledged game drives on its campus. The trips, under the guidance of a registered field guide, make for great team building sessions. Our South Campus is also home to what is the WELCOMING SPIRIT … NMMU’s first mascot, Diba the dolphin, is joined by Vice-Chancellor Prof Derrick largest area of protected dune fynbos in South Swartz (from left), Marketing and Corporate Relations Director Pieter Swart and Sports Manager Petrus Boukes Africa. at a launch on South Campus.

North and South fence removed NMMU excels further … A new link road between North and South Our choir won two awards and the highest overall campuses has been opened so one can now drive points ever received in the 46-year history effortlessly between South and North campuses of the prestigious international choir competition without going through the security gates. The in Spittal, Austria. opening of the road and removal of fences has also led to an increased movement of animals – mongoose, genet cats and various buck species – within the 720-hectare nature reserve on which our campuses are situated. Imminent arrival of R45m microscope NMMU looks set to receive the country’s first high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), VOICES … Ken Gotyana and Nonkazimulo Ndlovu are which will enable NMMU scientists to take the analysis among the 51-member choir to have brought honour to NMMU and Nelson Mandela Bay following the choir’s of materials to the highest levels possible worldwide. international success. The Centre for HRTEM to be established at NMMU OUR HERITAGE … Visitors enjoy the 158-year-old will house new electron microscopes and related One of our textile design students won an Cape Recife lighthouse as part of the game drive. instruments valued at R80m. international design competition in Goa, India.

Making SA safer International publications award The university has joined hands with two leading technology companies to improve the South African Police Services (SAPS) communication network. Working with European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company, Saab Grinek Technologies and others, NMMU will train thousands of policemen and women to effectively use TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked Radio Access), new electronic equipment, in a joint project valued at more than R1 billion, over the next five years.

Cycling win The NMMU MECER cycling team cycled their way to WINNING TEAM … Nelson Mandela Metropolitan victory on their home ground at the USSA Cycling University’s (from left) Paul Geswindt, Christelle Feyt and Championships from 28 June to 1 July. Team member Bernard Piater came out tops with their undergraduate PRESTIGIOUS WIN … Moipone Qekisi BTech textile publications in an international competition run by the Conrad Viljoen also won a gold medal in the design student was the overall winner of the prestigious Association of Commonwealth Universities. individual time trial and a silver in the hill climb. Society of Dyers and Colourists design award. NMMU highlights 7 Briefs School benchmarked as model teaching institution Great graduation figures Accounting students shine Close to 4500 degrees, diplomas and certificates were awarded Our flagship BComH onours (Account- School of Accounting into one of the during 14 graduation ceremonies in ing) programme which produces top best in the country. Subject experts, Port Elizabeth and George from 15 chartered accountants, has done it with a passion for professional account- to 24 April, including 47 master’s again. ing education, were employed, and degrees and 18 doctorates. Leading 97% of its graduate class of 2008 continue to be today. the way with postgraduate degrees passed the South African Institute “We’re always striving for success is the Science faculty with a record 17 of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) for all our students,” said Prof Frans doctorate and 45 master’s degrees 2009 Qualifying Examination Part 1, Prinsloo who, as head of the school, is compared to 2008’s figures of 12 a percentage continuing the good work and 24 respectively. well above We are always of his predecessors. These degrees translate to some the national striving for the The school’s student- outstanding research within the average. success of our centred teaching approach fields of renewable energy, cancer, Furthermore, the means the four-year CA students. Achiever … Craig Tudhope, NMMU’s traditional medicine and conservation. School of Accounting programme students re- top BCom Honours (Accounting) graduate has just been benchmarked as the ceive extensive course material to sup- last year achieved top honours in part one of the South African Institute of Chartered Researcher of the Year model teaching institution in the plement prescribed textbooks, lectures Accountants’ (SAICA) qualifying examinations. Professor Bert Olivier has won country by the professional body. backed up by small-group tutorials, He was placed joint first in the country, out of 3373 candidates – and attributes his success the research title for the second These superior SAICA first-time weekly assignments and regular tests. to his strong faith, excellent support group consecutive year. His research has qualifying examination results – which “We try to ensure that none of our and unwavering ability to “throw himself already earned him a number of have been successfully repeated for students fall through the cracks. If wholeheartedly” into everything he does. awards including the Stals Prize for more than a decade – are all the more students work diligently, there is every students, both obtaining 75% and Philosophy from the South African remarkable when one realises that reason for them to pass,” said Prof above. Academy for Arts and Sciences in NMMU has traditionally not attracted Prinsloo. They, along with their 57 classmates, 2004. He is also a regular columnist large numbers of “A” learners. These Apart from the success of Craig are all presently completing their three and Thought Leader for the Mail and school leavers generally head for the Tudhope (see caption above) a further years of practical experience, part of Gaurdian newspaper. older, more established universities, two students Candice Hammond and the training needed before they can while average learners come to NMMU. Lauren Jackson finished in the top 30 qualify as chartered accountants. Knowledge seekers But the School of Accounting's According to recent statistics six reputation is now such that top NMMU graduates have each crossed learners are also beginning to join Success stories the platform at least six times. Two of NMMU in increasing numbers. theese alumni work at NMMU. The successful growth of the School Some top NMMU School of FD of Rennies, now lives in the Prof Ilse Truter has seven degrees, of Accounting is evidenced by the in- Accounting graduates include: UK with his own venture capital six were obtained from UPE and one crease from 12 graduates who passed Dave Powels, managing director business; Derek Pryce: had his from North-West University. the Qualifying Examination in 1990 to of VWSA. Colin Beggs, CEO of own IT Company, lives in CT now; Dr Lester Cowley has five degrees the 58 graduates who passed on their PricewaterhouseCoopers. Trevor Wagner: Deputy CEO of and one diploma, all obtained at first attempt in 2009. Alan Knott-Craig Jnr, managing Idwala Holdings in JHB (very big in UPE/NMMU. According to present school head Prof director of iBurst. Royden Vice, chief construction industry). Also, many Frans Prinsloo, NMMU’s predecessor, executive: Waco International Ltd School of Accounting staff are alumni, the University of Port Elizabeth, always and many senior partners of the including the school’s Prof Frans Free application had a solid reputation with regards to audit firms in Port Elizabeth and Prinsloo, who was third in the SAICA its accounting programmes, but that beyond. Barrie Webb: Joint MD of Qualifying Examination Part 2 in fee to alumni and it was seriously enhanced with the ar- SA Airlink and major shareholder 1994, and lecturer Johnathan Dillon their children. rival of Prof Keith Prinsloo in 1993. Prof and Trustee on UPE Trust for many who finished in the SAICA Qualifying Keith Prinsloo, and then Prof Jeff Row- years. Duncan Sangster: former Examination Part 1 in 2005. Contact the Alumni Relations lands, systematically set out to turn the Office for more information. 2009 Honorary doctorates

CONNECTED … South African cellu- WORLD PLAYER … American KINGDOM DRIVEN … Bishop Paul JUST CAUSE … A DLitt was SIGNIFICANT FOUNDER … Rev lar phone pioneer Alan Knott-Craig economist Joseph Stiglitz was Verryn of the Methodist Church awarded to Prof Dennis Brutus Mpilo Rubusana (posthumous), received a DBA (Doctor in Business recognised for his commitment received a DEd in recognition of who has strong links with Port a founder of the party that was a Administration) for his contribution to the global development of his service to others, for his strong Elizabeth, in recognition of the forerunner to the ANC, received a in the field of technical innovation, economics. He will receive the humanitarian values and promo- activist and poet’s contributions DPhil in recognition of his literary, sustainable development and busi- degree of DCom – his 40th tion of teaching. to human rights, democracy, religious and political contribu- ness leadership. honorary degree. justice and literature. tions to South African. 8 On top NMMU encourages South Africans to tionally as Afrepell – will be commercialised in a variety invent their own products of forms, from lotions, creams and unique vapouriser systems to coating for mosquito nets. When it comes to the sector of the chemical phone Brussels, Paris or New York. For a start, the To suit the African context, it could also be available in industry responsible for mixing and blending the solutions found overseas may not always be suited petroleum jelly (similar to Vaseline), which is used wide- likes of paints, household products, make-up and to a South African environment. By understanding ly across the continent as a skin moisturiser. This means pharmaceutical products, how to formulate products in that a baby can be protected against malaria without his there is a huge gap South African companies our own country, South African mother having to modify her behaviour – she can rub in local innovation need to change their companies can make the right the product on her child like she has always done. because South Africans, product for local and regional “South African companies need to change their until recently, were not being mindset that foreign consumers.” mindset that foreign technology is better. To keep taught how to formulate new technology is better InnoVenton’s major successes in their product line fresh, it is much easier and cheaper chemical products. this area include the formulation to make improvements at home from often unique Instead, they mostly relied on overseas companies for by doctoral graduate Ilse Asquith of a mosquito repel- locally-produced components. We need to capitalise new or improved technologies and materials. lent that is a safer alternative to what is on supermar- on these opportunities to create new, exciting, highly- To plug this enormous and expensive gap, InnoVen- ket shelves. The repellent – to be marketed interna- competitive and potentially exportable products.” ton – Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s Insti- tute for Chemical Technology – introduced the country‘s first BSc Honours degree in Formulation Science, which is currently in its second year. Students enrolling for the course – which is industry-supported, and led by staff well-qualified in product-development – are taught the basic scientific principles behind the blending and mixing of products, and then have to blend their own commercially viable product, as part of the course. Geoff Ritson, deputy director of technology support at InnoVenton, said: “Those in industry might GROUND-BREAKING COURSE ... InnoVenton Programme Leader Dr Shawn Gouws and InnoVenton Programme ask why they need to have qualified formulation Co-ordinator Dr Nicole Vorster are encouraging students to invent own products through NMMU’s unique BSc Honours scientists in their team, when they can just as easily degree in Formulation Science.

Desmond Tutu Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, 1984. Honorary Doctorate, NMMU, 2007

Apply for postgraduate studies at NMMU

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NMMU news 9 Novel birthed from alumnus’s vision of tragedy Thumbs up for author’s debut novel Abbe Deighton is a woman who has lost her bearings. Once a child of the African plains, she is now settled in Hawaii, married to a minister, and waging her battles in a hallway of monotony. There is the leaky roof, the chafing expectations of her husband’s congregation, and the constant demands of motherhood. But in an instant, beginning with the skid of tyres, Abbe’s battlefield is transformed when her three-year-old daughter is killed, triggering in Abbe a seismic grief that will cut a swath through the landscape of her life and her identity. This is a sneak preview of alumnus, Isla Morley’s (nee Sherrington) debut novel, Come Sunday, a novel about the search for a true homeland, family bonds torn apart and the unearthing of old secrets. According to Morley, readers who enjoy the works of Jodi Picoult, Barbara Kingsolver, Elizabeth Berg, Alexandria Fuller, Gail Godwin and Khaled Hosseini will enjoy Come Sunday. Creative thinker… Alumnus Isla Morley’s novel Come Sunday was inspired by a vision. Morley completed her BA with majors in English and Psychology in 1989. She worked as an editorial It took Morley two-and-a-half years to complete assistant at Freewind Publications and spent several the novel, while working part-time and adjusting to years working at Bigblue and Divestyle magazines, motherhood. “It was my ‘nap-time’ novel, written Winners of two niche publications founded in PE. mostly when my daughter was asleep,” said Morley. After marrying an American and moving to California Reviews of the book were featured in Los Angeles prestigious 15 years ago, she turned her attention and skills to non- magazine, Christianity Today, and newspapers like the profit work, primarily in the field of communications. A Boston Globe and the San Diego Tribune and according awards decade later, she was inspired by a vision of a character to Morley, all were favourable. whose daughter had died in a terrible tragedy and be- “The most common response from readers has been NMMU alumni Dr Amber Anderson and Tanya gan writing her first novel,Come Sunday. how deeply they were affected by the novel. People tell Kisten were recognised as top of their fields, “Mercifully, I have never lost a child. There have me they cried a lot, but also found the ending to be presented with prestigious Business Women’s been times of anguish and grief in my life, but the powerfully uplifting, “she said. Association (BWA) awards recently. story is completely fictionalised”. Morley is currently working on her second novel. The BWA is a prominent association of busi- ness and professional women in South Africa. The association presents regional business Award for passionate designer achiever awards, honouring entrepreneurial and professional women, at each of the eight “Blessed and overwhelming”, was how Eastern Cape Three months after BWA branches around the country annually. fashion designer and NMMU alumnus, Leandra graduating with her Dr Anderson, the national talent development Fourie described her recent win of the National Vow NDip Fashion Design manager at Aspen Pharmacare, won the award award for couture wedding design. and Technology (cum in the corporate category, for making a difference Brides nationwide voted for their top wedding laude), Fourie started within the company/corporation and community suppliers in 60 categories ranging from cakes to work on her very first she works in. photographers. Suppliers were rated on quality project – a wedding Kisten won in the entrepreneur category. of service, quality of product, value for money and gown – and that was She owns and manages Khanyisela Training attitude of staff, and when it came to design, Fourie the start of L’designs a corporate training company. Her other came out tops. and a booming career. achievements include winning a Fullbright Fourie, has been running L’Designs for 13 years and “In 2006 I was scholarship to study at New York University and now operates from studios in Summerstrand. the first Eastern an Africa SMME Award finalist. “It means that after all these years I am definitely in Cape designer to Both alumni fondly remember their time at the right career, living out my passion for couture bridal participate in the Top spot… Leandra Fourie NMMU and the contribution the institution has wear, something that’s part of my soul,” she said. Vodacom won the National Vow award made to their lives and careers thus far. Throughout her school career Leandra excelled July Invited Designer for couture wedding design. “I had a permanent job at NMMU for five years in needlework, but ended up receiving a bursary Showcase and the following year I was asked to do while studying there,” Dr Anderson said while to study BCom (accounting) at Nelson Mandela the SA Mohair range. I enjoyed this, but my passion recognising those who unselfishly influenced Metropolitan University. “I went for a week of classes has always been with couture, bridal and evening her life during this time like Prof Martheanne and decided it was not for me!” wear.” Finnemore, Prof Peter Cunningham, Prof Bruce Although teachers tried to convince her she could “Hopefully L’Designs will still be around for a very Robertson, Prof Frans Bezuidenhout and Luc not make a career out of fashion, Leandra had her long time. I’m not planning on going anywhere Hosten. mind made up and enrolled for fashion design. because I love what I’m doing way too much,” she said. 1 0 Alumni news Spicy pictures capture Indian culture Capturing the complexity of India’s sights, sounds and smells in a few still images was the accomplishment of photographer and alumnus Leonette Bower (nee Bothma) in her recent “Magic Masala” exhibition. When Bower travelled to India with her husband, Rudi on a six-week holiday in December last year, what emerged was her first solo exhibition. About 100 images of daily Indian life were displayed at Montage Gallery in Walmer, Port Elizabeth. “We had such an amazing response from the public, we decided to let the exhibition run for an extra week,” said Bower. Bower completed her NDip Photography in 2000 and currently works as a photographer at NMMU. Picture perfect … Leonette Bower’s photograph Old man, Varanasi, recently exhibited in PE. Alumnus scoops awards ALUMNUS JP Roodt won the best head office in , representing AWARDS GALORE public relations practitioner in clients such as RE/MAX of Southern … Media, media liaison (publicity) award at Africa, creative agency Saatchi & Communication the Public Relations Institute of Saatchi, the Stellenbosch Academy of and Culture graduate JP Roodt South Africa’s annual 2009 PRISM Design and Photography, the Nordic is making a name Awards in March. Roodt is also hospitality giant, and Rezidor Hotel for himself in the the youngest to win this specific Group (Radisson, Park Inn, The Regent public relations category in the history of the awards and Hotel Missoni). Roodt also won world. and the youngest senior associate gold in the PRISM’s business-to- at Marcus Brewster Publicity. He business category (RE/MAX), silver Media category (NB Music Records’ currently heads the corporate in the sponsorship category (RE/MAX artist In-Cha). He is currently and digital communication/social World Long Drive Celebrity Challenge), planning his postgraduate studies media practice areas of the firm’s and a bronze award for ePR/Social at NMMU. Leonette Bower Retrospective exhibition of artist’s work The work of the late Amos Langdown’s first solo exhibitions Langdown, renown international led to him being awarded grants artist, was seen in a retrospective by the government and the Cape exhibition at the EPSAC Gallery in Tercentenary Foundation to study Central in September. abroad and he studied at the Rijks The exhibition was organised to Akademie voor Beeldende Kunsten in celebrate Langdown the artist, who Amsterdam in 1962 and 1963. was also a BA graduate (1988) and His work was also seen at group NMMU alumnus. shows in London, Munich, the Venice The artist who passed away in Biennale and the Sub-Saharan African February 2006, was a painter of Exhibition in the USA. All the paintings landscapes, town scenes and figures as on the Sub-Saharan show were well as a graphic artist and produced acquired by the Smithsonian Institute lithographs, woodcuts, etchings, in Washington. Art appreciation … Two of Amos Langdowns paintings, recently displayed at a dry points, monotypes and copper Langdown’s own social retrospective exhibition in his honour. engravings. commentary on the life of the In his career he maintained a balance communities on the Cape Flats was Langdown was also a poet in his own personalities as Alba Bouwer, Pieter between his own practice as an artist invariably infused with a sympathetic right, and lent his skills to illustrating Grobbelaar and the late poet, the late and his passion for teaching. insight and sentiment. the published writings of such literary PJ Philander. Alumni news 1 1 Cricket event to be held in May 2010 Big cricketing names at sporting reunion INTERNATIONAL cricketing greats Cricket Board president Flip Potgieter of who started their careers at NMMU Mathematics Education. such as Dave Richardson, Kepler “This reunion is essentially a Wessels, Shafiek Abrahams, Tim celebration of the first 30 years of Shaw, Mark Rushmere, Brett Schultz, NMMU Cricket (then known as UPE and Dave Callaghan, Pieter Strydom (all PE Technikon). ex-Protea players) and Neil Johnson The weekend tournament will be (ex-Zimbabwe), will be attending an played on the Saturday with eight NMMU cricket reunion in May 2010. 20/20 matches at NMMU, divided into NMMU alumni who played cricket be- age groups. HONOURS ... After 17 years Shafiek Abrahams (player and coach), Kiewiet tween 1965 and 1995, are invited Contact Elda van Vuuren at the Mali (groundsman, Sport Bureau) and Kotie Grové (NMMU Trust) are still involved to play at the reunion in Port Elizabeth, NMMU Trust on elda.nmmut@mweb. with NMMU cricket and celebrated their recent National Club Championship victory. Back in 1992 when UPE last won the National Club Championship, Shafiek also organised by cricket commentator and co.za or 084 522 8302 or Prof Kotie played for the team, Kiewiet was the groundsman at the cricket pitch and Kotie was NMMU Legacy Programmes Director Grové [email protected] to the Club President and Dean of Students. Prof Kotie Grové, along with former EP book your place. Nurturing ICC Twenty 20 talent NMMU really is a nursery for international sport stars. “It‘s good to acknowledge that the sport pro- No fewer than 11 players at the recent T20 World grammes at NMMU have contributed a great deal Cup in the United Kingdom have been through the over the years,” said Dr Richard Stretch, Director of ranks of the EP Cricket Academy (started in 1995) or Sport. the former International Cricket Academy based at On the rugby front - several members NMMU. who played the Lions in the Bay in June benefited from The four South Africans in the Protea‘s ICC T20 team the SA Rugby Academy that was based at NMMU. They who attended the EP Cricket Academy were Johan were Solly Tyibilika, Mwande Stick, Michael Vermaak Botha, Robin Petersen, Wayne Parnell and Mark and Heinrich Stride. Boucher. Other players who have come through this Besides the South Africans, there are many programme and who played Super 14 rugby this year international stars who have also benefited from include Luke Watson, Kabamba Floors, Wayne van CRICKET REP … Cricket Sports Manager Riaan Osman their training with the academy including two from Heerden and Fabian Julies. (left) was appointed by the England Cricket Board to work the Scottish team and five from the Irish team. In addition, two players who were part of the UPE- as liaison officer for Ireland at the T20 Cricket World Cup Furthermore, our colleague Riaan Osman from Sport FCK Soccer School of Excellence, Elroi van Heerden and in England in June. Here Riaan is seen at Lords together with T20 World Cup Cricket Player of the tournament was the liaison officer for the Irish team and is also a Siboniso Gaxa, were members of Bafana Bafana for the Tillekaratne Dilshan from Sri Lanka. graduate of the academy. Confederations Cup.

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1 2 Sporting news Where are they today? The first students of the predecessors to NMMU started their studies in 1965 and 1979 at the former University of Port Elizabeth and PE Technikon respectively, and are dotted If you have news of any alumni, around the world today. This is what Routes discovered. please drop us a line on [email protected] or call 041 504 3935. We’d love to hear Malcolm Wright (NDip Forestry 1968) worked as a senior technician in biodiversity for the Natal Parks Board, before from you. 1960s taking an early retirement at the age of 65.

clubhouse parties to late night study break takeaways from Steers but most impor- 1970s tantly, the friends I made along the way”. Linda Scheckle (nee Cloete) (BA 1971) works Louise Niven (nee Masson) (BCom, for the University of Fort Hare as a learning Economics and Business Management advancement coordinator in the Teaching and THEN NOW 1998) currently works as the online Learning Centre. Rae van Zyl (nee Knott-Craig) (NDip communications manager for SITA Executive Secretary 1991) The 1991 Miss (provider of global information and Port Elizabeth Technikon and Miss South Malcolm Gates (BSc Hons 1979) works as a senior telecommunication solutions for the air Africa Technikon (second princess) works software engineer for a company in Minneapolis, as a PA for Dr Alan Knott-Craig, the transport industry). Minnesota, USA. former founding chief executive officer of Vodacom and also models part-time for Christopher Brown (BCom Economics an international hair brand. “Studying and Business Management 1999) works at NMMU was one of the best decisions Karin Meyer (nee Le Roux) (BCur 1986) I ever made. I would not have been as a business analyst for Credit-Suisse works as an occupational health nursing as successful in my career if I had not in London. “ I recall a lot of fun evening 1980s practitioner in East London for Gompo attended PE Technikon.” tutorial sessions with friends at varsity”. Occupational Health Services where she is the managing member. Roydon Bailey Delia Southern (nee Ah Quat) (HR Andries du (BCom 1997) works degree 1999) is currently self-employed Plessis (BA Robin Fourie as the finance man- and does billing for medical practices. 1983) is the as- (BCom 1987) ager for IMS Health sistant director works as the Limited in London. Mike Arends (BPharm 1999) is a senior in organisation group human “My memories pharmacy technician at The Wellington development resources include Unitas and the friends I made which Hospital in London. for the North West Department of Health manager for I still have today. I remember the braai held and Social Development. Eberspacher SA. in The Frog for the opening game of the RWC Pierre van Dalen (BCom Rationum ‘95 when SA beat Australia! 1999) works in Sandton as a product Keith Gibson (BSc Hons 1984) teaches Ilse du Plooy Roelofse (NDip Graphic development manager for SYSPRO and is at Alexander Road High School in PE and Design 1988) works as a graphic designer Thembani currently studying towards his MBA. is also the HoD in Computer Applications at African Sun Media in Stellenbosch which Khonkwane Technology. publishes academic coursework and books. (NDip Municipal Administration 1997) works as a Bertus Greeff (BSc Hons 1994) works transformation at Microsoft as a software development advisor for the engineer in Redmond, Washington, USA. Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries. 1990s Kim Everts (nee Wampach) (BA Social Work 1996) works at Wandsworth Social Greg van Heerden (BSc QS Hons 1998) Marlini Moodley (LLB 2002) works as Olga Rall (nee Services/Neurorehabilitation Centre in works in London as the budget manager the first Indian female state advocate Katz) (BA English London as a senior social worker. for Marks and Spencer. at the offices of the Deputy Director Hons 1996) teaches of Public Prosecutions, Eastern Cape at Redhouse St Claire Adriaan (BA Ed (Sec), BA Hons Brigitte Puttergill Port Elizabeth. Marlini was also the Primary School as and BEd 1997) is the co-founder and (nee Jeske) (BCom first Hindu female advocate to join the a Grade 4-7 English co-partner of the, Success Preparatory Accounting 1998) Port Elizabeth Society of Advocates. and Life Orienta- Academy, in New Orleans, USA. He is currently doing “My time at varsity was a stepping tion teacher. “I remember being in Veritas remembers: “Rag and Intervarsity, the admin for Puttergill stone to meeting numerous students and all the varsity and res parties; English lowering of the old South African flag and & Son. “I fondly re- from diverse cultural and linguistic lectures in Building 35 and also watching hoisting the South African flag - bringing in member the whole backrounds who have now moved on to become prominent figures in their the opening game (SA vs Australia) of the a new era during the winds of change and res experience respective fields. 1995 in the Kraal”. all the lifelong friendships that I formed.” from mardigras to Alumni news 1 3 Where are they today? 2000 - 2003

Mava Silinga (NDip Marketing 2000) is a sales Cobus Bergsman (BSc 2001) is an English teacher in Avinash George (BTech representative for Engen Petroleum Limited in Cape Town. Taiwan. 2003) is currently working for the Shoprite/Checkers Siphelo Ngcwangu (NDip HR 2000) is currently the Kagiso Tlhobolo (NDip Travel & Tourism, BTech 2001) Group as the training and head of the research department at BANKSETA works as a senior manager for tourism standards at the development manager. South African National Parks Board. Rualda Whitfield(MCom Tax 2000) works for Meadow Benjamin Fogel (BSc 2002) works as an independent Feeds as a financial executive. consultant in Ra’anana in Israel. Jonathan James Dicks Joseph Ou (BCom Hons 2002) works for Postilion in Cape (BPsych Sports Psych 2003) Town as an IT developer for the European region. works as the sales and communications manager for Pam Richardson (MA Community Development 2002) is Student Village in Johannesburg. the group HR and community development manager for Singita Game Reserve in Cape Town. Loryn Thorburn (nee Walton) (BSc Hons 2001) Esther Haitink (NDip Fashion Design and Technology works as a validation officer 2002) is a product manager for H&M, COS & Monki at Fresenius-Kabi, Bodene. Accessories in H&Ms Hong Kong production office. Her “I remember many many designs and prints are sold in 1800 stores around the hours spent in the lab, but world. my practical work taught me how to plan and how to be effective and efficient. Those years were some of my best Nosiphiwo Mdyogolo and varsity was such a fantastic experience as a whole.” . (NDip Marketing 2003) works as an investor relations officer Kelvin Knowles (MPhil in at Mvelaphanda Resources Ltd. Politics 2001) is lecturing at the Port Elizabeth Thembisa Jemsana (BSc Nomkhita Mona (MA Industrial relations 2000) FET College in Business Quantity Surveying 2003) works as the chief executive officer of Uitenhage- Management and Human works at PROFICA (Project Despatch Development Initiative (UDDI) and was Resources and also writes a Management Africa) as a proj- recently appointed the first black person on the column as an independent ect manager in Cape Town. board of Goodyear in South Africa. She said she aims to work towards the company setting the industry political analyst. benchmark in environmental sustainability, corporate governance, economic empowerment and corporate 2004-2009 social investment. Antoinette Marais (nee Pitout) (BSc Computer Science Siphiwo Mndana (BCom 2005) is currently working as an Dirk Strauss (NDip IT 2005) 2004) works as an IT teacher at Brandwag High School in integration java developer for Momemtum in Centurion. works for EOH as a senior Uitenhage. developer. Themba Gwejela (BA Benny Ou (BSc CS&IS Hons cum laude 2004) is the team Media, Communication Bongiwe Magongo leader of the Adora project at Global Vision in Cape Town. and Culture 2005) is the (BTech: PR Management marketing, branding and 2006) is the owner of Imma Danelle Coetzee communications manager 51, a fashion house. NMMU (nee Bhana) (BA Media for Metropolitan Group. “I memories: Being elected as Communication Culture 2004) am proud and truly thankful one of the House comms of works for Avusa Media as a for my NMMU experience the Sanlam student village. marketing assistant for the and will forever hold the Herald and Weekend Post. university close to my heart”. Gavin Joseph (MBA 2006) works for Telkom as the Roger Mutangadura (BCom Adv Sizwe Magwaca (LLB 2005) is working as a legal area manager: network 2004) works for Baseline IT in intern for the Coega Development Corporation. operations. which specialises in IT outsourcing. Athi-Ho Mlanjana (BSc Hons Applied Maths 2005) Jaco van Wyk (BSc Hons works in Johannesburg as a SAP BI consultant 2006) works as an IT Sheldon Vandrey (BSc Hons Environmental Studies 2005) developer at Dimension Data is currently working for SRK Consulting as a geographical Ronald Knoetze (MSc 2005) is a business analyst at Europe in London. information systems (GIS) technician. FlowCentric in Centurion. 1 4 Alumni news Where are they today? Mr SA finalists 2009 2004-2009

Rev Godfrey Walton Divinia Pillay (BTech (MA: Sociology-Group Journalism 2008) is the Dynamics 2006) works short course programme co- for the Anglican Church of ordinator and media liaison Southern Africa as rector officer for the NMMU Office for in the Diocese of International Education. Cape Town.

Mzwandile Mpongwana (BA HMS/ BA Group Dynamics Antonio Ballan (BPharm Degree 2007) is currently 2006) is currently studying living in Cape Town, studying personal training and towards his MSc in Public sports nutrition in order to pursue a life-long dream Health/Health Promotion at to promote and provide complete health care. His Leeds Metropolitan University. recent achievements involve a NDip sports science He works as a junior scientist HFPA, Sports nutrition HFPA, FAME world swimsuit for the Health Promotion model champion 2009, fitness SA model champion Research and Development Richard von Wildemann (Advanced Business 2008 and 2009. Mr SA finalist 2009. “ I will always Unit-Medical Research Programme NMMU Business School 2008) works in sales remember looking out over the reserve and seeing Council. and marketing for Transport Components. monkeys, buck and other wild life! There is nowhere else in the world where you have that opportunity! It Lulu Baitlotli (BCom Computer Science 2006) works as Nomaxabiso Nongauza was very peaceful and calming! Exactly what you need an IT auditor for Ernst & Young in Botswana. (BTech 2008) works as a after a hectic lecture or test.” customs and logistics intern. Lee-Anne Butler (BTech Journalism 2006) works as a senior reporter at The Herald for Avusa Media Port Elizabeth. Genevieve Jozaffe-Naidoo (HR Management and Labour Nervita Rademeyer (BTech Relations Hons 2008) works for in Management 2007) works the IHG Group in the Middle East as an admin clerk at Uti as the human resources manager. Mounties. “ All the friends I made at NMMU expanded my social network”. Melanie Ferreira (BTech Sandile Phillip (BCom Accounting 2004) works as Civil 2007) works for Tober Mark Alexander (BCom Law a trainee accountant for British American Tobacco. Management Services as the 2009) works as a commodity Sandile was a MR SA Finalist and won a few titles in CEO but will start lecturing at buyer at Volkswagen in fitness competitions. He appeared on Pasella and NMMU in January 2010. Uitenhage. Top Billing. “NMMU allowed me to make mistakes and to learn from them early in life” Juan Meyer (BSc Hons 2007) works as an EFT card management specialist in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Thembelani Vanqa Bongiwe Gonya (NDip (NDip Marketing, BTech Internal Auditing 2009) is Marketing, MBA 2007) is working as an intern: audit and the APAC executive officer compliance at COEGA. at Auditor-General South Africa. Soebeidah Kieviets (nee Isaacs) (BEd Hon 2009) teaches grade 2’s and 3’s at Greenwood Primary School in Martin Lutaaya (BCom 2007) is working in Kampala, the partially-hearing department. Uganda, as a systems administrator. Bennum van Jaarsveld (BCom Law 1999) Adelina Mbinjama manages his own business, Ukubamba Consulting, Sibongiseni Swapi (NDip Civil Engineering 2007) is a (MA Media Studies consisting of marketing, advertising and civil engineering technician at Kwezi V3 Engineers in Port 2009) is currently promotions/events. Her also models part-time and Elizabeth. working as a does presenting work. He recently took part in the lecturer at NMMU. Mr South Africa competition and ended in the top Kaylene Naidoo (BAdmin 2008) is working as a five, and received the category award for Business graduate trainee in purchasing at Volkswagen South Man of the Year. Africa. Alumni news 1 5 4044