?In celebration of Youth Month, the Young Alumni Programme (YAP) at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) is showcasing our incredible young alumni. Meet some of our remarkable Maties, all under the age of 35, who are using the knowledge and skills they gained at SU to push boundaries and make a real impact across various fields.

Meet Rochelle Hellens – the soft skills superhero who's flipping the script on business as usual, proving that empathy and connection are the true power moves.

After surviving the corporate rollercoaster and facing retrenchment, Rochelle launched Soft Serve Consulting in February 2024 – with a fresh, people-first approach. This is helping her clients focus on their ?core functions – oil, gas, offshore wind energy and sugar cane – while she tackles the creative side of things, helping them thrive. She does all this with her husband as her sounding board and brainstorming partner, she says.

Rochelle's journey began at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票, where she initially studied Sports Science before switching to a BA and graduating in 2011. Those university years laid the foundation for her love of learning and understanding people – skills she now uses every day in her business, she says.

Growing up in Pietermaritzburg, Rochelle jokes she's “from the place you stop for a Coke on your way to the beach". But that small-town vibe gave her a big heart and a deep love for community. After years away, she moved back to KwaZulu-Natal, craving the warmth and connection she grew up with. “Since moving back, my life feels like it's both settled and taking off at the same time," she says. That balance of calm and momentum is exactly how she runs her business – grounded, yet always pushing forward.

Soft Serve Consulting is more than a job for Rochelle – it's her mission. “I want people to feel heard, to take a big exhale, and know things are in good hands," she says. Her secret sauce? A background as a mental health professional and yoga therapist. This knowledge helps her read between the lines. “Thoughts create momentum and behaviour, which dictate our actions," she explains. This means she doesn't just manage resources – she connects founders and creative teams in ways that make sense and spark real results.

Rochelle's journey hasn't been smooth sailing. Fourteen years in corporate roles ended with a retrenchment during a global market crash. But instead of folding, she leaned in. “It took a lot of grit, trust, and humility to get here," she admits. That experience fuels her passion to help founders grow their business “by focusing on what they do best, while clearing the path for them". Because when teams communicate better and stress less, productivity and innovation soar, she believes. “By helping businesses manage their resources more effectively, I believe we're contributing to a healthier South African economy," Rochelle says.

She sees her generation as shaped by extremes but ready to build a future full of hope. “The future belongs to those who move forward with positivity." Her hope? To create a cycle where success breeds more success, with entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs, she says.

And for anyone thinking about starting out, Rochelle's advice is simple: “You're not on fire. Don't wait for perfect conditions. Start, evolve, ask for help, and keep your chin up."

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"When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion."

With these powerful words from an Ethiopian proverb, Prof Thuli Madonsela once again wove meaning and unity into the moment - this time at the 4th Annual #Action4Inclusion Social Justice Walk on Youth Day, 16 June 2025. As always, her choice of words reminded us that when we stand together, we can overcome even the most significant challenges in the true spirit of Ubuntu.

This year, about eighty people from Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU), the various communities in town, students, staff and participants from as far as Johannesburg joined the Social Justice Walk. The walk, which links the commemoration of June 16 with #action4Inclusion, a fundraising effort to end student debt as a barrier to graduating from university, is a joint initiative of Visit Stellenbosch and the SU Centre for Social Justice. As usual, participants completed the 13km route to Kylemore, reduced from 16km due to a storm-damaged bridge at Pniel. The walk started from Die Stal at Coetzenburg to Kylemore, past the Old Main Building, the Lückhoff School and via Ida's Valley on the historic Old Helshoogte Pass.

The mission is to connect enthusiastic, diverse participants in supporting students who cannot register for the next academic year due to outstanding fees and graduates who are unable to access their academic records upon graduation.

The walk was co-led by Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, SU's new Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Council Chairperson Dr Nicky Newton-King, Stellenbosch's Executive Mayor, Jeremy Fasser, and the Student Representative Council (SRC) chairperson, Roceshia Februarie, who welcomed everybody, reminding them that no student should be left behind because of debt.

"It's an absolute privilege and pleasure to join you this morning on this walk – a walk that symbolises a journey, not only for our country but also for us at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票," said Prof Ramjugernath in his reflection on the legacy of the 1976 Soweto Uprising and the ongoing role of youth activism in shaping a just South African society.

"Today, we walk alongside our students, staff, alumni and community members in meaningful action for inclusion," he said. "The spirit of 16 June reminds us that youth activism remains as vital today as it was 49 years ago. Some may call it resistance – but it's really about activism."

"Our students are challenging us to do better, to build institutions that reflect the values of justice, inclusion, but importantly, of shared humanity. And I think that is critical. So, the walk we undertake today is both symbolic and deeply meaningful. It hopefully reflects our collective commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journeys in higher education. By participating in this initiative, we help remove some of those financial obstacles that they may face, and that may disrupt them on this journey that they are taking."

"While this walk is symbolic of a journey and a purpose, let us walk with a memory of those who came before us. Let us walk forward. Let's walk together towards a future where no student is excluded, no voice is silenced and hopefully, no dream will be deferred," said Prof Ramjugernath during one of the symbolic stops in front of the Old Main Building.

Here, where the impressive installation of SU's Constitution stands tall, Thembatlethu Seyisi, a researcher at the Centre for Social Justice and one of the champions of this walk, read the preamble to our Constitution, followed by the singing of the national anthem – a tradition deeply embedded in this walk.

At the Lückhoff School, participants could each choose a rock with a cutting of a spekboom tied to it, which they carried for the rest of the walk – symbolic of the burden those who were forced to vacate their beloved school in 1969 as a result of the Group Areas Act of 1950 and relocate them to the new Lückhoff School in Ida's Valley, some carrying their benches as they left.

Speaking in front of the historic School building that is now the SU Centre of Social Impact, mayor Fasser reflected on the pain and resilience rooted in the town's past. Once a hub of learning and community, the school's closure under the Group Areas Act left a deep wound in the collective memory of Stellenbosch's previously disadvantaged communities. "It was not just the end of an academic chapter but a wound in the soul of our town," he said. Yet, the message was ultimately one of hope and commitment: "This morning, we affirm that the injustices of the past will not define our future. Stellenbosch is committed to walking a different path – one grounded in equity, inclusion and redress."

From here, the group walked up the Old Helshoogte Road to the Ida's Valley Reserve, where members of the community treated the participants with light refreshments, warm tea and a welcome by community leader Eon Hendrikse, who acknowledged the importance of Youth Day and the role of the community in shaping the future of the youth. A group of youth also participated in creating beaded bracelets for all the participants, with a special message for Youth Day attached.

Towards the highest point of the walk, close to the top of the Old Helshoogte Pass, staff from Visit Stellenbosch endured the sudden rain to treat the participants with roosterkoek and juice, wishing them well on the last stretch of the walk through the Zorgvliet wine estate. Here, at what is called the "slave tree", the participants learned that this was a site where enslaved people were gathered, punished, or displayed during the time of Dutch and British colonial rule in the Cape. The tree is a living witness to the Cape's slavery past, a silent monument to the lives and suffering of the enslaved, and a symbolic touchpoint for truth-telling, healing and reflection in post-apartheid South Africa.

The group finished the walk at the Bethlehem Farm in Kylemore, where Prof Madonsela and Dr Newton-King thanked the participants and presented each with a medal for completing this walk of remembrance.

Drawing from personal experience, Prof Madonsela recalled arriving at university with only a suitcase, relying on the kindness of strangers and the support of fellow students. "It's painful for me as somebody who never had to pay for my education from Grade 11 onwards to see young people denied education by economic deprivation. I feel we have failed young people. Despite working hard and achieving good grades, many students are still locked out of university simply because they can't afford it. As I did, some come here not knowing where they're going to sleep and what they're going to eat - just hoping some grown-up somewhere is going to solve that problem."

Among those she thanked, Prof Madonsela acknowledged Daniella Takis, the young author of Lolla the Spy Dog, for generously donating a portion of her book sales to support #Action4Inclusion.

If you want to donate to this worthy cause, please click this link

Photo credit: Simba Pondani

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??South Africans celebrated Youth Day on Monday 16 June. In opinion pieces for the media, students and staff at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 wrote about young people as social justice champions, the impact of unemployment on the mental health of the youth, and students' views on misinformation. Click on the links below to read the articles as published.

• Liam Gillesen (Empowering South African youth: The importance of engaging in social justice — Weekend Argus)
  

• Senzakahle Mazibuko (The future is now: A call to SA's youth to build social justice — Mail & Guardian)

• Hakeemah Matinka (Youth must be social justice champions — Daily News)
  

• Abigail Larsen (Why the youth should champion social justice — Cape Times)?
  

• Dr Stefani du Toit (The devastating impact of unemployment on the mental health of SA's young people — Daily Maverick)

• Prof Herman Wasserman & Dr Dani Madrid-Morales (Students' views on misinformation: Cynicism or scepticism? — 中国体育彩票 World News)

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In the plight of global environmental change, the study of ecotones is gaining traction in the scientific community.

Ecotones are spatially complex transition zones that occur between distinct plant communities. Here, plant species are at their ecophysiological limits due to changes in suitable environmental conditions such as climate and soil. Because of this heightened sensitivity, researchers are increasingly recognising the role ecotones could play in biodiversity conservation, potentially, acting as indicators of global environmental change.

Historically, studying ecotones presented scientific challenges due to their inherent dynamic spatial structure, data and methodological limitations. Notably, advances in spatial tools and techniques including GIS and remote sensing and spatial statistics, have afforded researchers the opportunity to locate and quantify ecotones across landscapes globally. However, these techniques typically neglect quantifying other defining characteristics, such as the spatial structure of ecotones, which notably shapes their adjacent plant communities.

Since ecotones are seldomly linear in structure, in our newly released study led by Dr Thina Ncube (On the Fractal Dimension of Ecotones Among African Vascular Plants) – a collaboration between the 中国体育彩票 of Stellenbosch in South Africa, the 中国体育彩票 of Lincoln in New Zealand and the School of Geography at the 中国体育彩票 of Leeds combined two key techniques, the first being the application of a fractal dimension and second, statistical analyses. 

There are several reasons for taking this approach, we wanted to find out if a fractal dimension (a measure of structural complexity in irregularly shaped features) could be of use in characterising the shape of ecotones. Through our statistical analyses, we intended to explore the relationships between the resulting fractal dimensions of the ecotones and a suite of environmental factors. Our findings revealed the overall usefulness of this approach and suggest its use in initiatives aimed at tracking shifts in plant biodiversity in Africa, and beyond.

A related version of this article is available on (Exploring fractal patterns in African ecotones), where we explore the topic from a broader perspective.

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?YOUTH MONTH

This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

Ornela Meri knows what it means to fight for a future in unfamiliar territory. A refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), she was six years old when she and her family arrived in South Africa in 2009, seeking safety from armed conflict in the eastern region of her home country. Today, she is an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at SU, Chairperson of SU's Refugee and Asylum Seekers Support Network (SU-RASN), and a passionate advocate for students like her who are working hard to belong, succeed and be heard.

When her family fled the violence in the DRC, Meri's father came to South Africa first, and she and the rest of the family followed soon after. Though grateful to be in a safer place, she remembers the transition as challenging. “Initially the biggest challenge I experienced in South Africa was language," she says. But by Grade 3, she was excelling – even earning a certificate for English.

Overcoming obstacles, embracing opportunities

“From a young age, my family – especially my grandmothers and aunts – engrained a love of our culture and language in us," she explains. “When we initially struggled to adapt to our new life in South Africa, my family got strength from our strong Christian faith." Now, she proudly speaks five languages and gives back through music and service. She is a gospel singer/songwriter, writes poetry and short stories, and serves as a Sunday school teacher and youth advisor in her church community.

Coming to SU, Meri actively sought out ways to contribute. “I have always looked for ways to motivate and give back to people of this nation," she says. “I have been part of several leadership positions which I strongly feel contributes to a better university and student community."

Meri currently serves as Chairperson of SU-RASN – a student-led platform advocating for refugee and asylum seeker students. This platform has been a massive help for people like her, she explains. “It has helped us to fully obtain the support and assistance that South Africa and our Institution has made available for all."

The network, supported by SU International, brings together students who had previously felt isolated. “For the very first time at SU we now have a community that stands to represent such students," says Meri. “We are motivated to empower other students to also become bolder through advocacy, awareness and networking opportunities."

She credits her team – Vice-chairperson Victor Makusha, Secretary Joyce Ndanda, and Event Planner Manella Mutombo Mukangwa – for their shared commitment to the cause. “The team is so resilient. At times they forget that they are students with other priorities!"

Giving back to South Africa

In South Africa refugees and asylum seekers are sometimes treated with suspicion, Meri notes. “People tend to perceive refugees as taking opportunities away from locals, but the truth is we want to contribute to South Africa so that we can build security for ourselves and South Africans. We want to give back to the country."

She is deeply aware of the systemic barriers refugee students face – from limited job opportunities on campus to ineligibility for funding and bursaries. “Some of us have been living in South Africa for 20 years or more, but systemic issues sometimes make us feel like outsiders."

Meri says she doesn't take the privilege of being able to study for granted. “Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 is one of the top universities in Africa. For me its motto, 'Forward Together', is very meaningful. When we say 'Forward Together' it applies to all of us. No student should be left behind because they were not born here. Refugees and asylum seekers deserve to be heard and to feel welcome. This is our home away from home.

“We want to use the amazing opportunities we get here for good – we want to develop ourselves to contribute to society. Some of us will go back to become leaders in our communities. We are all Africans, and we should be united."

A future built on faith

What she wants others to know about people like her is simple, but powerful: “Refugees and asylum seekers are driven to succeed and be resilient because of the difficult circumstances we come from. We are very hard-working. We don't just want to survive; we want to thrive."

For Meri, her faith remains the foundation of her resilience. “Every time I feel like giving up or when things burden me, I reach out and speak to God, who gives me strength."

She is passionate about writing and hopes to become a journalist, giving a voice to others. Meri envisions returning to the DRC one day, using writing as a tool to shed light on the ongoing struggles in her home region. “My people are crying, people are dying. My heart breaks for them," she says. “I would like to use my voice to make a difference – whether that means I go back or do advocacy for my people from elsewhere."

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman?
 

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??YOUTH MONTH

This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

For Caroline Wallington, the link between ecology and justice is not theoretical. As a PhD candidate at SU's Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST), her academic work focuses on social-ecological regime shifts, but her interests stretch far beyond research. From wetlands to waste, from education to community upliftment, Wallington has made it her mission to live out her values in both public and private ways.

“I've become extremely connected to and passionate about sustainability and social-ecological systems, including all their inherent complexity," she says. Her work explores how abrupt changes in ecosystems – called regime shifts – impact biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human wellbeing. “I'm also particularly interested in wetlands and seemingly small things that make a big impact on the wellbeing of people's livelihoods."

Wallington holds degrees from the 中国体育彩票 of Cape Town and the 中国体育彩票 of the Witwatersrand, and is a registered professional natural scientist in ecological science. Before returning to academia, she worked in environmental impact assessments, where she specialised in wetland ecology, biodiversity management and land rehabilitation. This practical experience sharpened her systems-thinking perspective, something she now applies in activism as well.

Advocacy in action

Wallington is currently involved as an expert in a Water Tribunal case challenging a proposed water use license by Keysource Minerals (previously CONSOL Glass) in the Philippi Horticultural Area. Volunteering her expertise, she supports the Department of Water and Sanitation's rejection of the license, which has already been turned down twice. The case has been ongoing for nearly two years.

“This has been tiresome work," she admits. “It requires me to review various resources and write legally binding reports detailing my expert opinion, as well as join specialist meetings to try and reach some common ground and agreement." The process is still underway, and Wallington is expected to testify at the next round of hearings. She hopes her contribution to the Water Tribunal process will help clarify this complex case. She strives to build on the insights she gained and use them to support others in similar contexts in future.

Wallington also supports community upliftment initiatives in the Lowveld. Together with her close friend Mashau Praising Mabunda, who is a Tsonga food activist, she is helping to grow an NGO, Xigugu Royalty, around a traditional product called Xigugu, a peanut butter-style blend of roasted peanuts and corn. “While this is built around a simple product, the idea is to grow it into a diverse community upliftment NGO based in Cork, which is on the way to the Kruger National Park."

Her most personal project is the educational support she has given to Dudu Lubisi, who she has known since she was 2 years old. The teenager is the grandniece of Sesi Maria Sando, the woman who helped raise Wallington and her three brothers in Mpumalanga. “Maria was truly far more than a domestic worker to all of us, but especially me. I referred to her as my Zulu mom. We had a uniquely special friendship and I spent time in her home in Kabokweni many times."

Wallington made a commitment to ensure Dudu received  a good high school education. Despite financial constraints, Wallington ensured Dudu completed matric, even receiving help from family to help Dudu finish school. She now continues to mentor the young girl through the next chapter of her life, especially since the very sad and sudden loss of Maria a few years ago. Wallington hopes Dudu will be the first of many young people she helps access education, honouring Maria's legacy and her own lifelong belief in education as a tool for empowerment.

Staying the course

Wallington says her passion for helping others is partly due to her personality type as an “adaptive peacemaker", but also due to gratitude. “I have been privileged to have a very strong, stable upbringing with a good education and good mentors, despite also experiencing normal hardships that come with childhood and big families."

The biggest reward for Wallington is knowing that she is living according to her values, beliefs and core ethics, even if it is sometimes challenging. “I think it also comes from the knowledge that no matter how hard things are for me, the people I am trying to help have it way worse. At times when I have considered stopping or quitting, I have imagined myself in the future looking back on that decision, and I have known in my heart I would regret it and feel very disappointed in myself."

While people have sometimes urged her to scale back her generosity, Wallington holds firm. Despite ongoing financial challenges, she stays dedicated to making a difference, believing she can – and will – do even more in future. She draws strength from her family and mentors, especially her mother and her late “Zulu mom", Maria. “I miss her dearly, as I was hoping to do much more with her in the future when she retired."

Wallington believes that even the smallest actions can make a meaningful difference. “It can be overwhelming once you open yourself up to the enormity of help that is needed all around us, so a certain resilience is needed to withstand that emotional trauma and pressure.

“Some days that feeling is extremely overwhelming, and most other days it is manageable. Even something as simple as rinsing out your recyclables so that the person collecting your rubbish does not have to deal with dirty plastics is worth doing. Just smiling and acknowledging the existence of beggars on the side of the road when you have nothing to give them is worth doing. Even giving people lifts when it is slightly out of your way is worth doing in a country with poor public transport."

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman

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As Executive Head of the Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine and currently Head of two of its divisions, the Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy and the Division of Sport Science, Associate Professor Karen Welman brings a deeply humane and collaborative approach to leadership.

“For me, there's nothing more meaningful than walking alongside someone as they grow into who they can be," she says, “and my role is to help build systems that support people – whether they are students, staff or communities – so they can thrive."

Welman has a clear vision for the Department going forward: “I would like for us to empower individuals and communities to achieve optimal health, performance and wellbeing through evidence-based physical activity interventions." 

The clinical and physical activity promotion services offered by the Department's three divisions play an important role in achieving this objective and she intends to grow the influence of these initiatives through collaborating with others. 

To bring her vision to life, the Department is deeply committed to integrating research, teaching and service as a powerful force for positive change. “Most of what we do is evidence-based, therefore research is a very strong driving force in the Department," she explains. 

“And then we bring all that back into the classroom and to communities. For me, they are not different silos: research, teaching and service speak to one another. I believe you will have more impact if you integrate all these components." 

Academic journey 

Her own academic journey began at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU), where she completed her BSc Honours in Biokinetics, followed by a Master's and PhD in Sport Science, specialising in exercise physiology. 

In 2007, she joined SU's then Department of Sport Science as a part-time assistant lecturer and exercise physiologist before being appointed as a full-time lecturer in 2010. “I began lecturing in motor control and motor learning," she recalls. “This really deepened my interest in movement neuroscience and shaped my academic direction." 

In 2011, she started The Movement Laboratory at the Department to support research and care in this area. “I predominantly focus on how exercise can change the nervous system, which is why I work a lot with people who have neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and dementia. I am interested in how we can use movement not only as therapy, but also as a window into what is happening in the nervous system," says Welman. 

She explains that her own research integrates basic sciences into practical applications. “I look not only at exercise and neuroplasticity – the intervention tool to change the nervous system – but also at potential physical biomarkers. I want to identify physical activities or movements that give us insight into what's going on in the brain and the rest of the nervous system."

Community projects 

In addition to teaching and research, Welman participates in various community projects. “I like to put initiatives in action," she points out. “I don't want to be all talk and not deliver anything."

Welman established her first community engagement, Let's Move, in 2014. This initiative targets neurological and movement disorders, and aims to create lasting educational platforms and exercise groups.

In 2015, she introduced community service rotations into the Biokinetics programme at SU, making it one of the first Biokinetics programmes in the country to offer structured, community-based learning opportunities. “We are not just delivering services," she says. “Working together, we are helping people see what is possible through movement and supporting them." 

Her next multidisciplinary collaboration initiative was the Paediatric Exercise Clinic at Tygerberg Hospital, established in 2021, which provides physical activity education and exercise therapy to children with rheumatological, immunological and neurological conditions. 

The clinic has since expanded to include children with pulmonary conditions, broadening its reach and impact. As the first of its kind, the clinic marked a significant step in bringing Biokinetics into the public health space, creating a model for integrated care in a government hospital setting. 

“We also have a Biokinetics Clinic, which is more for adults," Welman adds. “It's something that we are piloting this year, so it is very new. It started as a collaboration with Emergency Medicine and looks at non-communicable diseases like hypertension, diabetes and obesity. We are looking at the impact that exercise can have as a benefit for people with chronic diseases." 

Another collaborative engagement she is part of is Cancer-Fit, which was launched last year. “We provide exercises to people who are currently receiving treatment for various types of cancers." Welman explains. 

Movement as medicine 

These initiatives are in line with her vision for the Department – “to showcase how movement is medicine, and how it can transform lives for the better". More generally, she wants to foster a physical activity culture in South Africa and globally to prevent, treat and maintain quality of life to achieve what she describes as life-long vitality. 

Outside of work, Welman finds balance in nature walks and hikes, family time and experimenting with home-made ice cream flavours. “When I was a child, my father used to say we have an extra stomach for ice cream. I think he was right; there is always space for more." 

She is known for her selflessness, her steady sense of responsibility and a quiet but determined belief that physical activity can, and should, be a standard part of how we care for people. 

Above all, she leads with a steady sense of care and responsibility. “I am just the person in this role at this point in time," she reflects. “But it is the people around me who make the real difference. I am here to support that." 

While her new position may bring added challenges, she has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to manage multiple responsibilities with ease throughout her career.

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?In an age where misinformation spreads faster than facts, it has never been more crucial for scientists to engage the public. From climate change denial to vaccine hesitancy, there are far-reaching consequences when there is public distrust and misunderstanding of science. This reality has sparked a shift in approach: from one-sided science communication toward engaged dialogue and genuine exchange with diverse audiences.  

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YOUTH MONTH
This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

When Revando van Wyk, a third-year education student at SU, recently stood in front of a high school class, encouraging learners to believe in their ability to lead, it was not from a place of distant idealism. Just a few years earlier, he had walked a path few in that room could imagine. Caught up in drugs as a teenager in Malmesbury, he watched his brother fall victim to the same spiral. His brother's death became a devastating wake-up call.

“I felt lost and unworthy," Van Wyk describes his teenage years. “I attempted suicide more than once." Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide for him and his brother, he knew that if he didn't change course, he would break her. One day, staring at his reflection in the mirror, he took a decision that would change everything: “This isn't the end. I won't be a follower anymore. I'll lead," he told himself.

That decision – born not of confidence but of desperation – set Van Wyk on a path of deep transformation. He changed schools, found leadership opportunities, and slowly began rebuilding his life. Now a dynamic and respected student leader at SU, he is using his story to show others that healing is possible and that past mistakes should not determine their future.

'You can be the impact'

Van Wyk is currently Vice-Chairperson of the Education Student Committee at SU and  assists fellow students facing academic challenges and navigating university life. It is a role he approaches with deep empathy and commitment.

Off campus, he collaborates with high schools on the West Coast, running leadership workshops for Representative Councils of Learners. He teaches public speaking, helps learners reflect on real-world issues and, most importantly, challenges them to believe in their own agency. “You don't need money or power to make an impact," he tells them. “You can be the impact."

Van Wyk also assists Grade 12 learners with university applications – something he once had to navigate entirely on his own. He recalls how overwhelming, confusing and lonely the process felt, and now works to ensure that others don't have to face the same struggle.

He wants young people to believe in the power of their own voices, Van Wyk says. “I want them to realise that no matter where you come from, no matter what you've been through, you can lead, and you can rise. My work is about planting seeds in young minds, showing them that leadership is not about titles; it's about courage. I remind them that they don't have to wait for someone else to come and save their community." 

Carrying his story with pride

Van Wyk's leadership has never been flashy. On campus he is known as a thoughtful and humble role model. In addition to his mentoring and social impact work, last year SU's International Office presented him with a life-changing opportunity to travel to Italy. It was an experience he will never forget, Van Wyk says. “I always thought travelling overseas was only for certain people, but there I was, standing in another country, carrying my story with pride!"

Still, one of his proudest achievements is far more personal. He saved the money he earned from working in the International Office to install an indoor toilet for his family – a long-overdue upgrade from the outside toilet they had used for years. “It may sound small, but for us, it was huge. It meant dignity. It meant change."

Van Wyk is the first in his family to attend university, a milestone that carries both pride and pressure. When things get hard, he grounds himself in that legacy. “I say to myself: 'Onthou jou naam, Van Wyk.' ('Remember your name, Van Wyk.') It's a reminder of who I am, of the family I represent and of the legacy I want to leave behind."

He credits his mother, Lena Van Wyk, as his anchor. “Even when life got hard, when she had every reason to give up, she didn't," he says. “I carry her strength in everything I do. I'm also blessed with friends who constantly remind me of who I am and campus staff members who never tire of answering my questions and guiding me through every stage of this journey. Without them, I wouldn't be here."

Asked what advice he would give to other students who want to make a positive impact but don't know where to start, Van Wyk doesn't hesitate before he answers. “Don't wait for inspiration. Be the inspiration. You don't need to have all the answers. Just start asking the right questions, someone will point you in the right direction. And most importantly, don't take a 'no' as the end of the road. Let it shape you, not stop you. Your voice matters. Your story matters. And someone, somewhere, is waiting for you to rise so that they can believe they can too."

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman?

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Professor Elmi Muller, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票, has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the Faculty of Humanities at Lund 中国体育彩票 in Sweden. The prestigious honour was conferred at the end of May in Sweden, recognising her pioneering work as a researcher in the international world of transplantation with a focus on ethics and the humanities.

What makes this recognition particularly noteworthy is that Muller, who is a renowned transplant surgeon, received the honorary doctorate from a humanities faculty rather than a medical one. This reflects the interdisciplinary nature of her research, which incorporates cultural and social science perspectives to understand complex medical phenomena such as organ trafficking and the treatment of people living with HIV worldwide.

“Muller's work, issues and outstanding contributions are relevant to humanities faculties worldwide," said Anamaria Dutceac Segesten, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Lund 中国体育彩票. “Her commitment and expertise are of great importance not only for research conducted in medical humanities but also human rights at our faculty, and she is also an important asset for Lund 中国体育彩票's other multidisciplinary research areas."

Muller's work is characterised by a multidisciplinary approach that bridges the gap between medicine and the humanities. She has demonstrated a strong commitment to equality, with particular focus on post-colonial issues, and has collaborated extensively with medical humanities researchers at Lund 中国体育彩票's Faculty of Humanities for many years. Her research emphasises understanding the social and cultural mechanisms behind medical phenomena, bringing a uniquely holistic perspective to transplantation medicine.

Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, Muller said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this doctorate from Lund 中国体育彩票's Faculty of Humanities. This recognition validates the importance of approaching medical challenges through a multidisciplinary lens that incorporates ethical, cultural, and social perspectives. It reinforces my belief that truly impactful healthcare research must consider the full human experience, not just the clinical aspects of disease and treatment."

As a transplant surgeon, Muller has achieved numerous historic milestones. She previously served as head of the transplant unit at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town and was the first woman to be appointed chair of General Surgery at the 中国体育彩票 of Cape Town. She is also the immediate past President of The Transplantation Society (TTS), the largest international organisation in the field of transplantation.

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?At a glittering gala dinner event on 3 June 2025, Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票’s Allan Gray Centre for Africa Entrepreneurship (AGCAE) and its partners were celebrated and announced as the winners in three categories at the 2025 GEN Compass Awards.

Presented by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), the Compass Awards recognise outstanding contributions to the advancement of entrepreneurship through research, policy innovation, investment, and ecosystem development. AGCAE and its partners were recognised in three strategic categories.

The first award, the Research Partnership Award, honoured Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies (AGGP), which helped found the AGCAE. The organisation was acknowledged for how they established through collaboration, actionable research that improves policy, enhances entrepreneurship programmes, ?and drives ecosystem development. In particular, it is the AGCAE research collaboration with their partners I4Policy, Utrecht and the Rwandan Ministry of ICT (MINICT) that was celebrated as the motivational basis for the award. An example of collaboration excellence in setting up, leading and galvanising innovative partnerships with key international and African organisations in order to co-produce research that inspires social change. This has brought about tools and insights that are actively shaping entrepreneurship-led development across the continent.

“We are delighted by this award,” said Dr Phumlani Nkontwana, Founding Director of AGCAE. “To be recognised alongside leading global institutions affirms the scientific and societal value of our

work. This recognition is not just for our Centre, but for all those committed to building a more inclusive and productive entrepreneurial future across Africa.”

The second award, Research Champion, was for the work of Professor Erik Stam (Utrecht 中国体育彩票 & AGCAE Research Partner), who was recognised for his influential research that bridges theory and practice, contributing to evidence-based approaches that inform entrepreneurship policy and ecosystem strategy across Africa. Specifically the co-producing of the “first-ever Africa Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index” was cited as the motivational basis for this recognition in the past year.

The third award, Policy Catalyst, went to Innovation for Policy Foundation (I4Policy), which was honoured for its pioneering work in participatory policy reform. I4Policy, a core AGCAE partner, continues to influence how entrepreneurship policy is designed and implemented across African economies.

“We are humbled by this global recognition. At AGGP, we believe that rigorous, contextually relevant research is essential to building inclusive, thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems,” said Zimkhitha Peter, CEO of Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropy South Africa. “This award affirms the power of trusted partnerships and long-term investments in knowledge generation to drive meaningful, systemic change in Africa.”

AGCAE and its partners are currently leading three high-impact and innovative collaboration initiatives:

● Africa Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index (AEEI): A continent-wide research programme assessing entrepreneurship conditions in 29 African countries across seven key ecosystem pillars—finance, market access, governance, support, culture, infrastructure, and human capital. See technical paper behind this initiative here: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5254687.

● Ecosystem.Build: A global collaboration with AGCAE, GEN, Smart Africa, Utrecht 中国体育彩票, and I4Policy, aimed at addressing data scarcity and enhancing ecosystem intelligence to better support entrepreneurship development across the continent

● Africa Policy Task Force: A pan-Africa inspired global collaboration with AGCAE, Innovation for Policy Foundation (I4Policy), Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and Smart Africa, aimed at bridging the entrepreneurship research-policy-practice gap in a series of innovatively designed fora based on data and dialogic approach.

Among the AGGP category nominees were Johns Hopkins 中国体育彩票, the Inter-American Development Bank, AfriLabs, and Startup Genome—making this win a significant recognition of excellence in Africa-led research collaborations on the global stage.

Launched in June 2024, AGCAE is based at the School of Public Leadership, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票. The Centre is a flagship research initiative inspired by the mission of the Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies to develop responsible entrepreneurs committed to the common good.

AGCAE’s work is structured around three pillars: conducting rigorous research grounded in African contexts, co-inspiring entrepreneurial ecosystem building, and establishing a pan-African Data Hub of hubs for ecosystem intelligence?.

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The Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) alumna – who earned a BA in International Relations in 2020 and an Honours in International Relations and Political Science in 2022 – is now blazing a trail in the renewable energy sector as a senior stakeholder manager at Zero Carbon Charge. The pioneering company aims to decarbonise South Africa's e-Mobility sector through a national network of ultra-fast, solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations.

Kamryn's role focuses on building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders, private investors and civil society organisations to align efforts on climate-friendly infrastructure development. She is also involved in developing opportunities for collaboration and expansion.

“What I enjoy most is the tangible impact of our work. We're not just talking about change; we're actively building it. I've also been honoured to speak at and represent my company at high-level stakeholder engagements."

Before this, toward the end of her studies, she interned at Belgian company Hozint, where she worked as a political risk and threat intelligence analyst. After graduating, Kamryn worked at SU's Frederik Van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Student Leadership Development as a programme administrator, followed by a role as a senior student advisor in student recruitment at Varsity College.

But Kamryn's journey as a changemaker began much earlier. At just 17, she made headlines with an open letter to then-President Jacob Zuma, published nationally. In it, she criticised Zuma's leadership and called on him to resign.

“Looking back, it was the first time I realised the power of using my voice to hold leadership accountable and to inspire dialogue and justice," Kamryn says.

She regards Youth Month as a call to action for younger voices to break systemic barriers and redefine leadership.

“I see myself – and my generation – as bridge-builders. We have the ability to merge idealism with pragmatism, to push for innovation, while honouring the need for inclusive, intentional growth. We need to ensure that policy and development are not only sustainable, but socially just. I want our generation to be known for acting with urgency, courage, and compassion."

She adds: “As a young woman of colour in spaces that are often male-dominated or disconnected from grassroots realities, I've learned that simply showing up can be an act of resistance. But showing up isn't enough anymore – we deserve to lead, to influence and to build systems that reflect the full diversity of our country."

Kamryn has also set ambitious personal goals for herself.

?“In the future, I'd like to deepen my influence in development structure, ideally working at the public-private intersection of economic development, social justice and gender equity. I aspire to take on more leadership roles – whether in the public or multilateral space – where I can shape policies that benefit both people and the planet. A long-term dream is to represent South Africa on the global stage in development cooperation." ?

Photographer: Vishen Ramgobin

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This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

Thanks to the ingenuity and visionary leadership of a remarkable student, Youth Day on the SU campus will again be celebrated with a soup kitchen, where a warm and hearty meal will be served to students.

When postgraduate student Francisca Darkoh hosted her first soup kitchen, she had just two bags of flour and a dream to feed vetkoek to about 20 hungry students. The next thing she knew, she was collecting a bakkie-load of donated food from Greenpeace Foundation SA – everything from whole chickens and fresh produce to cakes and milk tarts. “I didn't even have pots that were big enough," she laughs. “So, I borrowed some, rallied a few friends, and we made it happen."

That soup kitchen, hosted mid-2024 at Russel Botman House, fed over 100 students and marked the beginning of a growing student-led movement to fight food insecurity at SU. Now operating under her food business FOODBYFRANNIDEE and in collaboration with the Listen, Live and Learn (LLL) programme, Darkoh leads a regular soup kitchen serving hundreds of meals during critical periods like exam time and registration, when students often run out of money or cannot afford to travel home.

For Darkoh, a Mandela Rhodes scholar who is pursuing an MSc in physiological sciences, it's a labour of love, fostering dignity and building community. “I don't believe in giving people leftover food or things I wouldn't eat myself," she explains. “I want to serve food that's delicious and nutritious – food I'd serve to the Rector." At the soup kitchen, students don't just eat; they connect. “We play music, we laugh, we build community. That's the heart of it."

Rising from hardship

It's not only Darkoh's compassion that sets her apart, but also her extraordinary resilience. A former Stirling High School learner from East London, she arrived at SU in 2019 thanks to a hockey bursary. She decided on SU when she visited Stellenbosch during a hockey tour while still at school. “I don't even need to apply anywhere else; this is where I'm coming to," she decided after falling in love with the town.

As a Matie, she quickly proved herself both academically and socially, majoring in biochemistry and physiology and holding several residence leadership roles.

But in 2022, Darkoh suffered a shocking setback. During her honours year, she was hospitalised for five months with sepsis following bacterial meningitis. “At first, they didn't know what was wrong with me. I was regularly doing CrossFit and I was healthy and active. Suddenly I was in high care at Tygerberg Hospital with my organs shutting down." She lost parts of her feet to dry gangrene and underwent six surgeries, including a partial foot amputation. “I was in a wheelchair for nearly a year," she says. “It was scary. The pain was intense. But I had so much support from friends, lecturers and doctors. My nurse even came to my graduation."

Now completing her master's degree, Darkoh is researching blood-based diagnostics for sepsis. She also continues to manage her mobility, attending weekly appointments with a biokineticist and adapting her lifestyle to cope with physical limitations. “I just take it step by step. Literally."

A mission born from gratitude

Darkoh attributes her tenacity and sense of purpose to the generosity of others. “I didn't get this far on my own," she insists. “I've been helped by really wonderful people who supported me through thick and thin. From my mom, Ruth who raised us alone after my father left when I was six, to teachers, friends, even strangers." One such person is a former teacher, Raydene, who supported her since matric, helping with everything from a dance dress to bedding and travel.

These experiences instilled in her a deep sense of gratitude and a philosophy of paying it forward. “It's not about being the 'main girl'. I want others to grow too and build community." She lights up when speaking about her team of volunteers who assist with the soup kitchen. “At first, they'd just follow instructions. Now they come with ideas and creative input. They're becoming leaders."

As Primaria of  Russel Botman House in 2024 and now an intern in the LLL programme, Darkoh is also intentional about succession. She's relieved that her friend Nothando Ndlovu, a social work student who has been cooking up a storm with her from the start, will take over the soup kitchen project from her. “The idea is to keep it going long after I'm gone."

Working for change

While her work is widely recognised by students and staff, it hasn't been easy to formalise. “There are so many hurdles to providing food to people," Darkoh sighs. “Safety concerns and legal issues mean that the 中国体育彩票's official structures can't be involved directly and that makes it tricky."

She's implemented her own risk measures such as indemnity and consent forms for photos but still dreams of institutionalising the soup kitchen project. “There are so many people who want to donate or contribute through volunteering. I'm just grateful that we've managed to channel that goodwill and positive energy into something meaningful."

Darkoh says she feels fortunate for having had the opportunities at SU to make a positive contribution. It has inspired her to continue to focus on social impact work in the future. “My main inspiration to work hard and to become successful is to create a better life for my family and support my mother. I want to make her life easier because after everything she's been through, she deserves to rest. My mom will forever be my role model and hero. She's never given up. She has such a forgiving spirit."

Advice for others social entrepreneurs

Darkoh's advice to students who want to make a difference? Start small. “You don't have to be the loudest person in the room. Small actions matter. And if you don't fit into someone else's box, make your own. You'll find your own niche." She also cautions against waiting for perfect conditions. “You'll never feel ready. Just start. You'll learn by doing – by making mistakes, by trusting the wrong people, by falling and getting up again."

On this Youth Day, Darkoh's story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when resilience meets compassion and Ubuntu. We honour her not only for the meals she serves, but for the future she's cooking up – one meal at a time.

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman

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A dedicated specialised support unit for organ donors – dubbed the “Life Pod" – will officially launch at Tygerberg Hospital on Wednesday, 4 June 2025. The groundbreaking facility, the first of its kind in Africa, is the flagship achievement of Save7, a non-profit organisation established and managed by medical students at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票's (SU) Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS).

The Life Pod will provide specialised care for consented organ donors, maintaining their organs' viability during the critical 12 to 36-hour period before transplant surgery. This dedicated space addresses a fundamental bottleneck in South Africa's transplant system: a shortage of ICU beds that often forces potential donors to be transferred to morgues before their organs can be used to save lives.

Addressing a silent crisis

South Africa faces one of the world's lowest organ donation rates at just 0.6%, while over 4 000 patients await life-saving transplants. The shortage isn't due to lack of medical expertise – South African surgeons performed the world's first heart transplant – but rather infrastructure limitations that prevent viable organs from reaching those who need them.

“Transplantation in South Africa is fairly stagnant," explains Prof Elmi Muller, Dean of the FMHS and past president of The Transplant Society. “We have, over the past 10 years, had more or less the same number of donors in the country, particularly deceased donors. Meanwhile, our patients that need transplants have been growing, and the waiting lists have become longer."

The Life Pod directly tackles this challenge by providing a dedicated space where brain-dead donors can be maintained without competing for scarce Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds needed by living patients. “Unfortunately, ICU beds are one of the most scarce medical resources in the country," says Jonty Wright, a fifth-year medical student and founder of Save7, the student organisation behind the initiative. “That often means that donors are left by the wayside, and seven people who would have been saved by that donor have to go find somebody else. And they often don't."

From student initiative to medical infrastructure

Founded in 2021 by FMHS medical students, Save7 has evolved from a simple awareness campaign to become the driving force behind South Africa's first dedicated donor support unit.

“Save7 started with a story," explains Wright. “Lynette Stuurman, a shopkeeper here at our Maties store was a 30-year-old woman born with a genetic kidney condition. Her sister had died two years previously, awaiting a life-saving kidney transplant that never came. Now she was sitting in the exact same position, quite literally waiting to die."

The then first-year medical students were touched by the story and decided to take action. “We got together and said we are not going to wait until we get our medical degrees to do something about this," says Wright. What began as awareness campaigns in lecture halls evolved into a comprehensive approach to addressing systemic barriers in organ transplantation.

The students identified that 60 viable organs were going to waste each week – organs that could save patients. Through mentorship with faculty members, particularly Prof Elmin Steyn, they recognised that the solution required more than awareness, it needed infrastructure.

From vision to reality

Raising the R400 000 needed for the Life Pod required innovative fundraising approaches. Four students – Henri van der Westhuizen, Gerhard Niewoudt, Alexander van Wyk, and Jonty Wright – competed in Ironman 70.3 triathlons as part of their “Tri for Life" campaign, combining athletic endurance with awareness-raising for organ donation.

The project received crucial support from The Health Foundation, which matched student fundraising efforts, and Tygerberg Hospital administration provided the physical space and operational backing. The students also secured donated equipment, including specialised beds, monitors, ventilators, and essential medical lines.

Sachen Naidu, Secretary General of Save7, describes the Life Pod as “a dedicated donor support room, designed specifically to maintain and nurse a brain-dead donor. It's kitted out with everything you would expect – from patient monitors to infusion sets to ventilators. We've got everything needed to support and take care of a donor."

Expected impact

Conservative estimates suggest the Life Pod will facilitate one to two donor cases per month, potentially saving over 100 lives annually. Each donor can provide up to seven organs, dramatically expanding the pool of available transplants for South African patients.

“This Life Pod represents a major advancement in our fight to save lives through organ donation," says Prof André van der Merwe, head of Transplant Surgery and Urology at Tygerberg Hospital. “Witnessing the next generation of medical professionals leading this vital project with such passion and determination is truly inspiring."

Looking forward

The Life Pod launch represents just the beginning of Save7's ambitions. The organisation plans to replicate the model in other provinces, with preliminary discussions already underway in Gauteng. Their ultimate goal is creating a national network of specialised donor facilities that can dramatically improve South Africa's transplant capacity.

“We hope this project will help promote engagement with families at the end of life to counsel them about the possibilities that exist to help others at what is always a time of loss and grief. We look forward to seeing how this project can be integrated into the existing health ecosystem, supporting the need for organ and tissue donation," says Dr David Thomson, Chairperson of the Western Cape Provincial Organ and Tissue Donation Committee within the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness.

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Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票's Division of Urology successfully hosted its annual international masterclass in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL), drawing urologists from across the globe to the university's state-of-the-art medical facilities.

The two-day workshop, held in partnership with industry leaders Marcus Medical and Cook Medical, achieved a significant milestone by receiving endorsement from the European Association of Urology's (EAU) endo-urology division as an approved training programme—a first for the event.

“We were privileged to have some of the top European specialists come together for this workshop," said Dr Pieter Spies, urologist and senior lecturer in SU's Division of Urology and Tygerberg Academic Hospital. The programme combined theoretical lectures with hands-on practical training in the university's Sunskills Laboratory, complemented by live-streamed surgical demonstrations by international experts.

The masterclass focused on training African urologists in advanced endoscopic surgery techniques for treating complex kidney stones, providing participants with cutting-edge skills in minimally invasive procedures. Attendees gained expertise in various PCNL approaches, including emerging techniques such as ECIRS and mini-PCNL.

This annual event reinforces SU's position as a leading centre for urological education and training, combining academic excellence with practical surgical skills development in the field of endourology.

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?Published in May to commemorate Workers' Day, our annual #dayinthelife series spotlights our staff at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU). This year, we highlight professional administrative support services staff who make a tangible difference in students' lives.

As a technical support specialist at ICT Student Services, Riyaad Parker ensures that students get the IT support they need to succeed – whether that is solving hardware issues in computer labs, helping them access online learning tools, or making sure new systems are rolled out behind the scenes.

What does your role at SU entail?

I am responsible for ensuring the seamless operation of systems within ICT Student Services. That includes supporting effective customer service, refining service standards, and maintaining consistent business processes – from the moment a service request comes in up until its resolution. I also help ensure these processes evolve with our students' needs and keep up with the best industry practices.

What does a typical day at work look like?

No two days are the same, which is part of what I enjoy most. A big part of my day is encouraging teamwork and creating learning opportunities through mentoring and on-the-job training. I assist new staff in adjusting to our systems and processes and often liaise with stakeholders and key employees.

My responsibilities range from providing maintenance and support for computer systems and hardware to installing, configuring, and updating both hardware and software. I also help manage and improve our desktop systems and support pages.

Much of my time is spent troubleshooting issues, writing technical reports, maintaining service-level agreements, running security checks, and ensuring our IT Service Management processes align with ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) standards. I also assist with implementing new applications or operating systems and contribute to broader projects aimed at keeping ICT Student Services ahead of the tech curve.

How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this job?

My passion for IT started early. I was five when my mother brought home our first PC – an IBM running MS-DOS. I couldn't help myself and took it apart out of curiosity!

My academic journey has taken a few turns – from studying BSc Computer Science, then LLB (which I still plan to complete), to qualifying as a Cisco Networking Specialist. My hands-on experience managing seasonal retail staff and later taking responsibility for an entire primary school's network – growing it from 40 to 200 working PCs using only donated equipment I repaired myself – laid a solid foundation for what I do today.

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?

The constant challenges keep me engaged – every day brings something new to solve. I especially enjoy working with students and colleagues in the uniquely academic and collaborative atmosphere of Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票. The town itself, with its natural beauty and energy, adds to the appeal.

Tell us something exciting about yourself that few people would expect.

I am really into car detailing – I love restoring or enhancing vehicles to make them look as good as new. It's my way of relaxing and unwinding. In my younger days, I used to modify cars and race at Killarney, and I've even done the odd bungee jump. I'd call myself a bit of an adventurer – I love discovering new places, cultures, and experiences.

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Three outstanding members of the Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) community were honoured at the prestigious Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC) Innovation Awards, held at Cape Town City Hall on Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

Anita Nel, SU's Chief Director of Innovation and Commercialisation, Mike-Alec Kearney, CEO of SU spinout company CubeSpace, and Prof Johann Kirsten, Director of the Bureau for Economic Research, were recognised as leading innovators in the academia category.

Celebrating excellence

Nel received the award for her exceptional leadership in managing the 中国体育彩票's vast innovation ecosystem. She oversees a portfolio of 35 spinout companies, hundreds of patents, SU's Technology Transfer Office, the SU LaunchLab business incubator and the Institution commercialisation office, SUNCOM. Under her guidance, the 中国体育彩票 has successfully commercialised numerous technologies, building a successful platform that fosters entrepreneurship, innovation, and real-world impact. 

Kearney and his team of CubeSpace, which specialises in building advanced control systems for satellites, were celebrated as the most successful spinout company among the four Western Cape universities. The company currently serves more than 250 customers across 30 countries worldwide.

Prof Kirsten was recognised for leading the Karoo Lamb Consortium, a 20-year initiative that culminated in the official protected status of Karoo Lamb as South Africa's first Geographical Indication. The Consortium operates as a non-profit company and showcases the intersection of innovation, tradition, and regional identity in South African agriculture.

The CCCI and CHEC awards recognised innovators across various sectors of society – academia, business, and public office. They honoured men and women who continue to push boundaries in the pursuit of progress and highlight the importance of innovation in driving economic growth and reducing poverty. Innovation were celebrated across the categories of academia, industry, business and public office.

“Innovation is as much about attitude as it is about technical expertise," said John Lawson, CEO of the CCCI. “It's a mindset that focuses on solutions. The more we innovate, the more we actively shape the future we want to see."

Prof. Eugene Cloete, a board member of the Chamber and the Chief Executive Officer of CHEC, said these awards celebrate what becomes possible when academia, government, and the private sector come together. “Universities are the engines of research, knowledge and fresh thinking. The private sector brings speed, skill and courage to take risks, and the government provides a platform for policy, investment and support to turn innovation into impact. This year, we received a remarkable number of high-quality innovations across all categories, a key indication that innovation is alive and thriving in the Western Cape."

The event underscored the need for collaboration between academia, the private sector, and government to foster innovation and create a competitive, inclusive economy.

Attending the whole event, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and Cape Town's mayor, Gordon Hill-Lewis, both highlighted the importance of continuous innovation, collaboration and recognition in driving regional development and job creation. They enhanced the importance of facilitating stronger connections and collaborations between universities, academia, businesses and government to enable and support innovation in the region.?

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With South Africa’s record level of youth unemployment and limited access to professional coaching, AI-powered coaching may offer a transformative solution.

Professor Nicky Terblanche, head of Leadership Coaching at Stellenbosch Business School, is pioneering research into how artificial intelligence can support young people and small business owners through accessible, personalised self-development and personal growth.

“AI coaching has the potential to democratise development at scale,” says Prof Terblanche. “For many young South Africans who don’t have access to experienced mentors or career coaches, AI can provide the structured support they need to move forward.”

Unlike traditional mentorship, which typically involves knowledge transfer from an expert to a learner, coaching, particularly in psychological and adult learning contexts, focuses on empowering individuals through self-reflection and solution-oriented thinking.

“The distinction between coaching and mentoring is vital,” explains Prof Terblanche. “Coaching doesn’t tell you what to do. It helps you figure it out for yourself and that leads to longer-term behavioural change.”

Prof Terblanche has done extensive research together with master’s and PhD students, including collaboration with academics in Germany and the USA. He and his team have developed AI coaching tools, including ‘Coach Vici’, that combine mentoring elements with scientifically grounded coaching principles.

In a recent peer-reviewed study comparing different chatbot coaching styles, including goal-based, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioural approaches, the cognitive behavioural model emerged as the most effective in developing users’ emotional intelligence.

“This was an unexpected and exciting outcome,” says Prof Terblanche. “It suggests that AI can do more than help people with goal attainment or guide career decisions – it can help users reshape unhelpful thought patterns and build critical soft skills such as resilience and emotional intelligence.”

In pilot programmes with young entrepreneurs and SME (small and medium enterprises) owners, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants received traditional business training followed by chatbot-based coaching support. “They reported feeling more motivated, confident, and supported by a tool available 24/7,” Prof Terblanche says.

However, challenges remain. One concern is that many AI models are trained on global datasets, making them less responsive to the South African cultural context. “We need investment to localise these tools,” says Prof Terblanche. “The appetite is there, but we need public-private partnerships and national funding support to make it truly scalable and locally relevant.”

He urges stakeholders, including the National Skills Fund and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), to prioritise AI coaching in national development strategies. “This isn’t a future vision – it’s already happening. Coaching applications (apps) are being developed in South Africa, grounded in local research. What we need now is scale.”

As Youth Day approaches, Prof Terblanche calls for a national conversation about how AI can augment, not replace, human development. “We’re not talking about machines taking over,” he says. “We’re talking about tools that can reach the people we’re currently not reaching at all.”

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A painting commissioned as a gift for Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票's Distinguished Professor of Education, Prof Jonathan Jansen, recently completed a remarkable journey of more than 15 000 kilometres – spanning the Pacific Ocean, two hemispheres, and three continents – before arriving in Stellenbosch.

The painting's journey began in the Solomon Islands, where it was transported by sea to Brisbane. From there, it was posted to Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the United States, before being flown to Cape Town and finally hand-delivered to Stellenbosch.

Prof Dolf Britz, a research fellow at the 中国体育彩票 of the Free State and SU alumnus, says he had the honour of completing the final leg of the journey. “I am honoured to mediate the echoes that reached my ears." He explained that the portrait was commissioned by Keith Sanga, the President of the Haddon Institute in Brisbane. Sanga, who is the grandson of a Solomon Islands chief and an avid reader of Jansen's publications, was inspired by Jansen's thought leadership.

“Sanga referred to Jansen as 'one of my leadership heroes … particularly for his ability to think through complex issues,'" Britz said. “The commission," Sanga had told Britz, “was the 'closest way to thank' Jansen for his contribution."

The connection was made through Dr Adrian Neele, a colleague of Sanga at the Haddon Institute and a former professor of historical theology and director at the Jonathan Edwards Centre at the 中国体育彩票 of the Free State, where Jansen once served as Vice-Chancellor. Neele, now president of the Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and Homiletics and Historical Theology in Grand Rapids, carried the painting with him to South Africa, handing it over to Britz, who lives in Betty's Bay, for the final delivery.

“In my mind, this painting captures who you really are," said Britz, as he revealed the portrait to an emotional Jansen. “It captures what you have meant to so many people."

Jansen described the gesture as overwhelming. “I am so humbled that someone thinks I am worthy of their time," he said. Although he has received many accolades and awards throughout his academic career, Jansen admitted that this painting and the intention behind it were “next level".

He added that he would be reaching out to Sanga to express his appreciation. Britz quipped that Sanga had one request: “Please take a photo of it with Dr Jansen and send it to me so I that I can pass it onto Riaz."

As for the portrait itself, Jansen said he would take it home to have it framed before deciding on the best place to display it.

- For more about the artist, Riaz Maninga, watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGtAUsC9jms

?Photo: Stefan Els

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YOUTH MONTH

This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

In a world facing an escalating climate crisis, Ocean Postman is determined to show that big change can begin with small steps close to home. A third-year BA Humanities student majoring in political science and philosophy, she has emerged as a leading voice for sustainability on campus.

Responsible for the sustainability portfolio on the Student Representative Council (SRC), Postman has turned her passion for the planet into concrete action. This April, she spearheaded an Earth Day initiative on campus that brought environmental activism to the streets of Stellenbosch.

From volunteer to leader

Postman grew up with a strong sense of social justice and a love of writing and music. But it was through volunteering that she found her calling in environmental activism. She believes climate activism is a shared responsibility that starts in local communities. Neighbourhood cleanups and tree-planting drives first sparked her commitment to sustainability.

“My inspiration for getting involved in sustainability was seeing how local initiatives really can make a difference, like the beach cleanups that happened after the devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal," Postman explains. “After that, it grew into more of a passion, knowing that the only way to engage in climate activism is collaboratively. What emboldened me, was the knowledge that I am a part of a huge movement of people who want to see sustainability achieved."

This grassroots ethos now guides her approach to leadership. She sees her role in student governance as a platform to amplify others' voices and drive collective action.

One of her proudest moments this year was coordinating the Earth Day campus-wide cleanup effort when dozens of bags of trash were collected on and around campus. The initiative was a collaboration between the SRC, the environmental society EcoMaties, and SU's environmental sustainability team. It was a practical demonstration of her belief that climate activism is a shared responsibility that starts locally and grows through participation.

Inspiring change through collaboration

Environmental issues can sometimes feel overwhelming, Postman admits. “But change doesn't rest on one person's shoulders. It happens in and among communities, and as students, we belong to a community that is more powerful than we realise."

The little things are the most rewarding, she remarks: “A student making the time to come to our cleanups in between their busy class schedule; or seeing students learn more about the initiatives in their community of Stellenbosch and beyond, and them actually showing up. It's been both a reward and a challenge to get students who can feel quite overwhelmed initially, to be excited to plant a tree, thrift, and make responsible choices."

Postman has also made her mark as a writer, using words as a tool for empowerment. A former student journalist for Die Matie, she is passionate about equipping young people with knowledge and encouraging them to remain curious.

The power of informed voices

“In terms of writing, I strongly believe in the youth being empowered with knowledge," she remarks. That belief was validated in 2024 when she won the prestigious CREDO-KAS (Centre for Research on Democracy- Konrad Adenauer Foundation) Africa Democracy Essay Award, held annually by SU's Department of Political Science. “That was a real highlight of my academic career."

Postman says she is grateful for the support of a strong network of family and peers. “My family understand my passion for social activism and have always let me express it from a young age." She also draws inspiration from fellow student leaders, especially those working in intersectional spaces.

When progress feels slow, Postman finds perspective in nature. “I like to be outside. I love to take a walk through the Jan Marais Park, look back at my favourite hiking trails at home in KZN, and read about some of the work and research that activists have been doing in South Africa and beyond. It really is about reminding myself that I'm just one person, connected in this deeply meaningful way to other human beings whose activism is courageous and inspiring."

To students wanting to make a difference, she offers practical advice: “Just ask! Ask your residence leadership, your faculty or the student communities you want to be involved in. I personally began by volunteering my time, and I read a lot. Staying informed, not just about what you study, because the opportunities to serve our communities are out there."

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman?

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YOUTH MONTH
This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).

Likhona Tokota, a music performance master's student at SU, is making waves in the music world as a gifted tubist. But he also embodies the spirit of paying it forward. After benefiting from the generosity of individuals who supported his training as a young musician, Tokota is now using his talent to serve others. He teaches brass instruments to learners in underserved communities, helping to build confidence, connection and creativity through music.
Born in Gugulethu, Cape Town, to Philiswa and Luvuyo Tokota – with roots in Cofimvaba and Tsholomnqa in the Eastern Cape – he was shaped by his mother's early words: “Education is freedom, and music is part of our identity."
Melanie Fryer, his mother's employer at the time, facilitated Tokota's enrolment at the Beau Soleil Music Centre, aged eight, where he started with mastering the cornet. Shy and withdrawn, he struggled with confidence and commitment. But when a tuba was needed, everything changed. “I was a plump kid and liked the size of the tuba," he laughs. “Then I heard the sound – it resonated with me, physically and emotionally."

Finding his voice through music

Carrying the bulky instrument on public taxis was tough, but Tokota persevered. Under the mentorship of his first tuba teacher, Shaun Moir, he excelled, becoming Beau Soleil's lead tuba player and earning the Matric Prize for Most Promising Music Student in his Grade 12 year.
Tokota's talent was noticed by the brass lecturer at the Music Department, Pamela Kierman, who recommended him for a bursary from the Wheatfield Trust. The Trust was managed by Stemray Lesch, husband of Felicia Lesch, coordinator of the Certificate Programme (CP) of SU's Music Department. This allowed Tokota to complete his schooling in Cape Town and continue his CP studies in Stellenbosch, where he was taught by the late Sean Kierman, legendary South African brass educator.
“Sean was a mentor beyond the tuba," Tokota says. “He taught me discipline, critical thinking, and to see music as a lifelong journey." In March 2024, Kierman facilitated the donation of a tuba from a former student, Tobie van Heerden, once principal tuba of the now-defunct National Symphony Orchestra. This overcame a major financial hurdle for Tokota, as the tuba is prohibitively expensive in South Africa.
During his CP studies, Tokota was awarded the Albert Engel Prize, named after the late Albert Engel, SU's first full-time brass lecturer. The prize honours students who embody Engel's spirit of excellence and community service – qualities Tokota exemplifies both in his studies and in his teaching of others. In 2023 Tokota also received a Rector's Awards for Excellent Achievement in the category for Academic Excellence Achievement in Arts and Social Sciences.

Bringing music to new ears

Today, Tokota carries this legacy forward by teaching tuba, euphonium and trombone at the Ronnie and Eileen Music Project in Kuils River every Saturday morning, as well as at Durbanville High School and the South African College High School, where he nurtures the next generation of brass talent.
Music has the unique ability to bring people together, Tokota believes. “Whether it's singing in a choir or playing instruments in ensembles or socially sharing music, these shared experiences create bonds and foster a sense of belonging."
As a musician, he strives to break down barriers and build community. “I try to use my teaching and outreach work to make brass more accessible and to encourage people from all walks of life to get involved. Whether it's through workshops, mentoring or just being present in different spaces, I want to help make the brass community more inclusive and connected."
In 2024, he was selected by the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival to job-shadow Prof Mark Hampson (from the Robert Schumann Hochschule in Düsseldorf), leading to a trip to Germany and Switzerland in April 2025 for lessons and ensemble work with Hampson, Hugues Spielmann, and Anne Jelle Visser.
As an ad hoc tubist, Tokota has performed with the Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic and Free State Symphony orchestras. As soloist, he has played with the SU and Johannesburg Philharmonic orchestras and at the recent Classics for All Festival in Greyton, he received a standing ovation for his performance of “Fnugg" with the WindWorx Symphonic Wind Ensemble.
He credits his journey to his mother's determination, his teachers' dedication and his own hard work. While others socialise, Tokota spends long hours practising. “You don't need to have everything," he says. “Just one or two people to believe in you – and the will to believe in yourself."
His message to aspiring musicians is that your background should not determine your future. “The music world needs your voice," he says.

PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman

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??Prof Robbie Pott from the Department of Chemical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 delivered his inaugural lecture on Thursday 5 June 2025. The title of his lecture was 'From laboratory to lecture hall: developing bioprocesses and students'.

Pott spoke to the Corporate Communication and Marketing Division about how his work in bioprocess engineering is aimed at finding real solutions to real problems. He also talked about his passion for mentoring and nurturing the next generation of engineers.

Tell us more about your research and why you became interested in this specific field.

My research lies at the intersection of biotechnology, molecular biology and bioprocess engineering, with a significant branch in engineering education. I've always been drawn to the transformative potential of biological systems, and how we can harness them to produce new materials and products. And in my time as an academic, I have also become passionate about how we train future engineers to deal with complex, interdisciplinary challenges. This led me to research not just the technical aspects of bioprocesses, but also how we develop the kind of thinking, problem-solving and resilience that engineers need.

How would you describe the relevance of your work?

On the bioprocessing side, my work has frequently pointed towards application. My work often straddles between academic interest and commercialisation. The idea of innovation driving entrepreneurship underpins much of my research. Real solutions for real problems, situated in a South African context. On the education side, this is where I believe I may have the biggest impact over time. We need engineers who can not only work across disciplines but also adapt, collaborate and persevere in the face of complex, evolving problems—and I hope that I have had a hand in training, developing and motivating these engineers.

What are some of the practical solutions bioprocess engineering can provide for real-world challenges?

Bioprocess engineering as a field has given society access to products as varied as wine to vaccines. The approach of using organisms as catalysts and biomass as a source of useful compounds has a long history, and with the advent of new molecular biological tools there will only be more opportunities.

In terms of my own work, I'm happy to say that several of the projects I have worked on are starting to find application industrially. Some examples include antifungal lipopeptide biosurfactants (soapy molecules), which provide a natural method to extend the shelf life of harvested fruit. These biosurfactants are safe for consumption and effectively inhibit mould growth—offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives in the South African fruit industry. In another application of the same class of materials, lipopeptides can act as flotation agents in the recovery of heavy metals from mine wastewaters. In a third biosurfactant example, we have developed a process to produce a biosurfactant that can be used in skincare, particularly in the treatment of eczema.

In a slightly different direction, we developed a method for extracting the valuable polyphenolic compounds (natural plant chemicals which have been linked to various health benefits) from wine wastes. In a similar vein, we have worked on developing a new biostimulant product from kelp—producing and extracting bioactive compounds from the abundant and renewable seaweed resource on our coasts.

Looking into your crystal ball, what developments do you see in the field of bioprocess engineering research?

I see there are many routes for innovation in this space—from the microorganism to the developed bioprocess. We will continue to bioprospect for new organisms, with interesting and useful properties. The world is filled with a multitude of organisms, and we have only discovered or investigated a tiny fraction. Secondly, the advent of new molecular biological tools gives us the possibility to reach into the cellular machinery, to modify and improve for precision biomanufacturing. With the advent of machine learning, the modification of cellular machinery will only be enhanced through clever AI use.

However, what interests me more is the application of these discoveries—to take interesting science and make it useful science. To this end, scale-up, novel bioreactor systems and process approaches will be needed. I envisage processes becoming more modular, decentralised and digitally optimised, allowing them to be deployed closer to material sources and tailored to local needs.

You have spent many years in the challenging environment of higher education. What keeps you motivated when things get tough?

As the problems we tackle become more complex and uncertain, so too must our approaches to preparing future (bioprocess) engineers. That includes more emphasis on resilience, innovation under constraints, and economic-socio-environmental-technical integration. My major motivation is how I see my students rise to these challenges.

At a postgraduate level, I see myself as a research partner with my students, and together we investigate and develop. What a privilege! To live the life of the mind with my students, and vicariously through them.

In terms of my undergraduates, although our expanding classes are a challenge, their enthusiasm and drive remind me why I chose this profession. They bring fresh energy, ask sharp questions (okay, sometimes not always such great questions! But there is (almost) no such thing as a stupid question) and constantly push me to reflect on how I teach and communicate complex ideas.

In short, I stay motivated because I believe the work matters, and because I see the impact we can have, not just through my own research work, but in the lives and impacts our students make.

You're not just an eminent researcher—you also mentor and nurture students. What do you find most satisfying about that part of your work?

What I find most satisfying about mentoring and nurturing students is witnessing their transformation from uncertain beginners to confident, capable professionals who begin to see themselves as contributors to their field. It's not just about guiding research or improving technical skills; it's about helping students discover their own resilience, voice and interest. My own success is driven by the success of my students—I am invested in their success, I am invested in creating a research group in which they can grow and learn, and I am invested in their future success. And that investment has paid dividends in spades.

More broadly, what aspects of your work do you enjoy the most?

My favourite moment is when confronted with a problem—such as an industry partner approaching and saying we are having such and such issue—and then sitting and brainstorming possible solutions. Creating new knowledge in response to a challenge. Proper testing follows and vindication of the solution, or back to the brainstorm. The cycle is invigorating (and sometimes frustrating).

Tell us something exciting about yourself that people would not expect.

I am one of the owners of Unlock Escape Rooms, a company based here in Eikestad Mall. We designed three exciting and immersive escape rooms (and have another on the way). For those who don't know what an escape room is: if you've ever played a board game and imagined stepping into it for real, that's the essence of an escape room. Participants enter a themed, immersive environment and are given just one hour to complete the storyline. It feels like stepping into a live-action adventure—every detail is designed to pull you into the story.

How do you spend your free time?

Recently, I've been spending quite a lot of my free time training—I'm going to the World 10 Dance Championships representing South Africa in September. But in general, I'm a fan of hiking with my partner and our little dog or cooking up a storm!

• Photo by Ignus Dreyer?
  

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Ten years ago, university campuses across South Africa broke out in protest under the #FeesMustFall campaign. On Friday 16 May 2025, the Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) Faculty of Theology in collaboration with the Centre for the Advancement of Social Impact and Transformation (CASIT), students, academics and alumni came together to commemorate a decade since the Fallist movement rocked the country's higher education landscape.

The gathering, held at the Theology building in Stellenbosch, was more than just a reflection on past events, however. It was a critical engagement on the victories and shortcomings of the #FeesMustFall movement, as well as the systemic issues that persist. Theology dean Prof Reggie Nel opened the event with a tribute to the students who initiated the movement, paving the way for the current generation to have broader access to higher education.

Those who had lived through the #FeesMustFall protests shared their personal stories. Shante Neff, now a transformation coordinator at CASIT, was a second-year student at the time. As a first-generation student, she used to struggle to make ends meet, working three jobs just to be able to afford basic necessities. “For my cohort, however, it wasn't just about fees. It was about language, exclusion and decolonisation," she said. Reflecting on the progress made, she now feels grateful for being employed and educated in a country riddled with youth unemployment, but also dismayed at how many students still face the same struggles.

Junior lecturer in the Faculty of Theology, Ashwin Thyssen, took participants back to the early days of #OpenStellenbosch, a parallel movement that had fought to challenge the linguistic and cultural gatekeeping at the institution. Recalling the fierce response by some during the SU Language Policy negotiations, he said: “The 中国体育彩票 argued that if Afrikaans was to be removed as a language of instruction, it would die, but we were not calling for the death of Afrikaans – we were calling for access."

The resistance, including victimisation, that his group faced when they challenged power showed just how entrenched systemic barriers were. Still, he regards the implementation of the 中国体育彩票's 2021 Language Policy as a hard-earned milestone, achieved largely thanks to student pressure.

A panel of current student leaders also contributed to the conversation, offering testimonies of what #FeesMustFall meant to them. Students' Representative Council (SRC) chair Roceshia Februarie confirmed that students were still facing many of the same challenges that their peers in 2015 struggled with, as “the more things change, the more they stay the same". 

Vice-prim of Silene Commuter Student Community, Isabella Serrano, who hails from Limpopo, spoke openly about having been oblivious to the 2015 protests until years later. “Where I'm from, these things weren't spoken about," she said. “But the injustice remains. What's the point of earning a degree if you'll never own it because you can't afford to pay your debt?"

Sisipho Witbooi, Vice-Chairperson, Theology Student Committee , acknowledged the early victories of the #FeesMustFall movement, but was critical of the stagnation experienced since 2017. “The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is now the biggest frustration," she said. “The system needs more than shaking; it needs rebuilding." She called for trust, advocacy and accountability, cautioning that protests should remain a last resort, and not the default response to students' grievances.

Keynote speaker Prof Jonathan Jansen referred to what he called the “harder change", namely trying to transform a century-old institutional culture. Bringing about cultural change at historically white universities was tougher, he said, because the culture was deeply ingrained in institutional structure.

Jansen credited #FeesMustFall with exposing injustices, but expressed sadness at its limited success in changing the deep-rooted systems affecting poor and black students. “You cannot transform higher education just by waving political slogans. True change begins with who teaches, what is taught, and how we treat one another," he explained.

He also expressed his discontent with the current wave of criticism against the employment of foreign nationals at institutions of higher learning. Jansen stressed that a university's currency was its professorship, which is why the number of foreign nationals employed at a university should never be seen as a threat to the progression of South African academics. “A university is not a country. Its reputation is built by its professorship, and that must be global."

During the concluding question-and-answer session, audience members raised issues such as xenophobia, financial exclusion and institutional reform. What became clear was that while #FeesMustFall might be ten years old, its work was far from over. The heated verbal exchange between participants highlighted the persistent underlying tensions beneath the academic civility.

For many who stood on the picket lines in 2015, and for those who inherited their struggle, the answer may still be unfolding. Yet #FeesMustFall undeniably ignited a flame, and ten years on, it is still burning.

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?Prof James Warwick, Executive Head of the Department of Medical Imaging and Clinical Oncology in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票, delivered his inaugural lecture on Tuesday 10 June 2025. The title of his lecture was 'From the multicounter to theranostics: a story of nuclear medicine'.

Warwick, who also heads the Division of Nuclear Medicine at the FMHS, spoke to the Corporate Communication and Marketing Division about how his research in nuclear medicine helps to improve the treatment of cancers and other diseases.

Tell us more about your research and why you became interested in this specific field.

I studied physics and applied mathematics before I went to medical school. Nuclear medicine (using unsealed radiation sources for the detection and treatment of disease) was a way to combine the two interests. My research has focused on functional brain imaging (a type of brain scan that shows how the brain is working in real time), applications of positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT—a detailed medical scan that combines two types of imaging to give doctors a clearer picture of what's happening inside the body) and measurement of kidney function.

How would you describe the relevance of your work?

Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty often misunderstood, both within and outside the medical community. We provide investigations and therapies that form an integral part in the management of a diverse group of patients, especially but not limited to cancer patients.

What are some of the significant contributions of nuclear medicine to modern healthcare?

Modern nuclear medicine represents the convergence of pioneering work from across the 20th century, when radioactive compounds were first applied to medical science. From these early developments, the discipline has grown—interacting with and borrowing from sister fields—to become a dynamic area in modern healthcare.

Imaging technology has progressed from the initial use of the rudimentary multicounter (a simple, older machine used to detect and measure radiation from several sources or samples at once) to today's hybrid systems that offer exquisite anatomical and functional detail. Advances in biochemistry and radiopharmacy (a special area of pharmacy that focuses on the preparation, quality assurance, and safe dispensing of radioactive medicine used to diagnose or treat diseases, especially cancer) now allow the visualisation of cellular processes and the delivery of precision therapies with fewer side effects.

Recent contributions include extremely sensitive imaging for the detection of active cancer and the treatment of some cancers using targeted radiotherapy—a cancer treatment that uses high-energy rays (like X-rays) to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours.

Can you highlight some major technological breakthroughs in nuclear medicine?

Continual improvement of PET/CT scanners including digital PET and whole-body scanning; and the development of new molecules to target disease such as PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) tracers used to diagnose and treat prostate cancer (theranostics).

Looking into your crystal ball, what developments do you see in the field of nuclear medicine research?

The development of new compounds that will enable the imaging and treatment of other cancers and diseases.

You have spent many years in the challenging environment of higher education. What keeps you motivated when things get tough?

Meeting and working with young people entering the field, including sharing their new ideas.

What aspects of your work do you enjoy the most?

The field is very dynamic. Even in the time I have worked in nuclear medicine, the nature of our work keeps evolving with new studies and therapies becoming available.

Tell us something exciting about yourself that people would not expect.

When time allows, I try to make a very small contribution towards the restoration of a 1922 steam locomotive.

How do you spend your free time?

When I can, I try to do some hiking on Table Mountain.

• Photo by Ignus Dreyer
  

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