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16 April 2024 | Story Anthony Mthembu | Photo Supplied
Melanie Ridgard
Melanie Ridgard celebrates receiving a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the graduation ceremony held at the UFS Bloemfontein campus on 19 April 2024.

In the realm of self-development, few stories are as inspiring as that of Melanie Ridgard, the Interim Administration and Events Coordinator at the South African Research Chair in Industrial Development (SARChI-ID) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Ridgard’s forthcoming graduation with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) on 19 April 2024 from the University of the Free State (UFS) marks not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the transformative power of higher education.

Reflecting on her journey, Ridgard shares, “This moment signifies a culmination of rigorous studying, dedication and perseverance in mastering business fundamentals, leadership skills and strategic thinking.” Her pursuit of an MBA stemmed from a pivotal moment in her career when she was promoted at the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at UFS. Tasked with leading a group of young people Ridgard recognised the need to augment her knowledge to effectively guide her colleagues. The MBA became her vehicle for professional growth, extending beyond a mere qualification to a profound transformation of her leadership capabilities.

“Attaining an MBA milestone represents a transformative experience that has shaped my thinking to make impactful contributions in any future landscape,” Ridgard explains. Her experience not only enhanced her strategic acumen but also deepened her understanding of organisational dynamics. She acknowledges the pivotal role played by the UFS Business School in nurturing her journey towards academic and personal success.

What to expect from Ridgard

Looking ahead, Ridgard’s commitment to continuous learning remains unwavering. Selected as one of five MBA students to address the 17th International Business Conference (IBC) in September 2024, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share insights on her work titled, “Next-Gen Integration: Navigating the Onboarding Maze for Gen Z in Today's Workplace.” Despite her current responsibilities at UJ, she harbors plans to pursue a PhD in the near future.

Amidst her ambitious pursuits, Ridgard remains grounded, prioritising the celebration of her MBA achievement. ‘’As everyone dreams about it, I just want to walk over that stage in a black gown and a hood on my head with my loved ones cheering me on,’’ she shared.

Ridgard’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, exemplifying the transformative potential of education and the enduring impact of determined leadership. Her story reminds us that true leadership is not merely about reaching milestones but also about empowering others and embracing continuous growth. 

News Archive

Five from UFS’s Department Quantity Surveying win prestigious awards
2014-11-17

 

Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu
Photo: Leonie Bolleurs

The University of the Free State (UFS) is very proud of five of its students who won the Kenneth K. Humphrey award at the recent International Cost Engineering Council (ICEC) conference held in Milan, Italy. Justin Haselau received the outstanding paper award. His study leader was Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, Head of the Department of Quantity Surveying at the UFS.

The ICEC is an organisation aimed at promoting cooperation between national and multinational cost engineering, quantity surveying and project management organisations worldwide, to the benefit of the industry and that of individual members.

The students received this prestigious award for the outstanding papers they delivered. The award is presented to authors under the age of 36.  Submissions come from all over the world and were adjudicated by an independent panel.

The other recipients were:

1.      Marique Kamperbeek – (study leader: Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, 2013)
2.      Tshego Matshwi – (study leader: Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, 2013)
3.      Matlakal Radebe – (study leader: Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, 2013)
4.      Elana Malherbe – (study leader: Dr Benita Zulch, 2012)

The winning papers were included in the electronic version of the ICEC’s International Cost Management Journal (ICMJ).

This is already the third time the university has won these awards.

Prof Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, Head of the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management at the UFS, says she is very proud of these achievements.

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