Latest News Archive
Please select Category, Year, and then Month to display items
16 April 2024
|
Story Anthony Mthembu
|
Photo Supplied
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.
A Kovsie friend in need is a Kovsie friend indeed
2015-09-23
Several student organisations have recently started
initiatives to lessen the burden on needy students,
and on the broader community. It is because of
these initiatives that donations of food, commodities
and clothes reached the No Student Hungry (NSH)
Bursary Programme at the University of the Free State.
Photo: René-Jean van der Berg |
Kovsie students have often showed that a friend in need is a friend indeed. Several student organisations have recently started initiatives to lessen the burden on needy students, and on the broader community.
It is because of these initiatives that donations of food, commodities and clothes reached the No Student Hungry (NSH) Bursary Programme at the University of the Free State.
The Rag Community Service and NSH offices are extremely grateful to students and staff for their selfless donations, also in respect of the difference these initiatives are making to Kovsies’ chances of having a better future.
The food and commodities will be distributed to the community, while the clothing donations are used for regular clothing sales in order to raise funds.
The food donations included a substantial donation from the support organisation, Gift of the Givers. The organisation heard about the NSH Bursary Programme and, due to the scope of the student-hunger problem, decided to become involved.
“This is an excellent initiative, and the passion with which it is driven motivated us to make a donation,” said Ms Emily Thomas, representative from Gift of the Givers.
Ms Karen Scheepers, Assistant-Director: Student Life responsible for Rag Community Service, said the recent donations and initiatives are proof that the Kovsie community really cares for each other.
“I found it amazing how willing students were to help and to give. From the moment we asked for help, students arrived at our offices with loads of stuff.”