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16 April 2024
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Story Anthony Mthembu
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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.
5 things you might not know about Elizabeth Molapo: Miss SA 2016 finalist
2015-11-20
Kovsies’ own beauty queen, Elizabeth Molapo |
Elizabeth Lihotetso Molapo is a final-year BCom Economics student at the University of the Free State. The impeccably-beautiful 23-year-old is the only Bloemfontein representative among the top 12 contestants who have their eyes fixed on the Miss South Africa 2016 crown.
You might not know that:
1. Elizabeth was named after Queen Elizabeth 2, with whom she shares a birthday. Her middle name, “Lihotetso”, translates as “Fire”. Suffice it to say, her burning desire to learn - the pull factor for her embarking on the Miss SA 2016 journey - is a manifestation of her fate.
2. This is not her first time in the Miss SA competition. Last year, Elizabeth gave the Miss SA competition a try but unfortunately did not make very far.
3. Her childhood dream was to become a pediatrician. Economics won when she had to shadow at a hospital when she was in high school, and was horrified at the sight of blood. Elizabeth then decided: “This isn’t for me!”
4. “Enter Miss SA,” she recalls Rolene Strauss saying. The former Miss SA and current Miss World encouraged her to follow her dreams, and to aim for the most prestigious tiara in the country.
5. The last book she read was Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. It is also the next one she might read, as she has read it three times already.
Other Kovsies who have made strides in the beauty pageant realm include Rolene Strauss who was crowned Miss SA 2014 and Miss World 2015. Earlier this year, Relebohile Kobeli was also crowned Miss Lesotho 2015 and is now en route to Miss World International 2015 in China.