A former Miss World, a medical doctor working at sea, a TV presenter, a sports star, a member of the UFS Council, and a band of musicians. What do all these people have in common?
Not only are they UFS alumni, but they are all part of a distinct group of people excelling in various careers post Kovsielife. It is to these people that the University of the Free State (UFS) turned when it needed messages of encouragement to help students make sense of uncertain times following the suspension of the academic programme on 16 March 2020.
As part of the #InspiringExcellence campaign, former UFS students such as author Ace Moloi; Rolene Strauss, former Miss South Africa and Miss World; Dr Michael van Niekerk, senior doctor within the Holland America Group; and Thembekile Mrototo, eNCA TV presenter, recorded video support messages for the thousands of Kovsie students studying from home. With input from the Division of Student Affairs and the Department of Institutional Advancement, these inspirational messages were distributed via the UFS social-media platforms.
“It is in difficult times like these where we are able to learn, we are able to push our boundaries, we are able to know and realise how strong we really are,” said Rolene Strauss, delivering a message from her home. In another video, “in full TV drag, make up and all”, Thembekile encouraged students to “take heart, as things will get better”.
David Abbey, UFS Council member, also stepped up with an inspirational message, writing a note to UFS students. “My piece of advice is this: don’t waste a good lockdown. Stay driven and focused on achieving your goals for the year, stay positive, stay smart, stay healthy, stay encouraged and encourage others – these are the qualities of the kind of leaders we’re going to need in a post-pandemic future,” he wrote.
Watch the video clips here: