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24 September 2024 | Story Aimée Barlow | Photo Supplied
Louzanne Coetzee - 2024
Louzanne Coetzee, who made history by clinching South Africa’s second medal at the Paralympics, earning a bronze in the T11 1 500 m women’s final with a personal best time, received a warm reception when she recently returned home.

The celebrated Paralympic bronze medallist Louzanne Coetzee returned home to a warm welcome at the Bram Fischer International Airport on 10 September 2024.

Family, friends, colleagues, Arista students, and media gathered to celebrate her remarkable achievement and show their support.

Coetzee – KovsieSport Coordinator of Parasport at the University of the Free State (UFS) – made history by clinching South Africa’s second medal at the Paralympics, earning a bronze in the T11 1 500 m women’s final with a personal best time. Her dedication and hard work have not only brought her personal glory but have also inspired many in her community.

Among those present to welcome her was Jerry Laka, Director of KovsieSport, who expressed his pride in Coetzee’s accomplishments.

"We as KovsieSport are so proud of our colleague Coetzee. It is amazing to see a product of KovsieSport achieving greatness on the world stage. She is truly an inspiration to us all," said Laka.

“I am so glad to be back, and to have Laka and my colleagues here. It means the world to me. Having Laka here shows his commitment to my career and ParaSport and his staff in general,” shared Coetzee, her gratitude evident.

She further expressed her appreciation for the support she received, stating, “I don’t have the words to describe how thankful I am for the support from the UFS community.”

Coetzee’s return is a proud moment for South Africa and the University of the Free State (UFS) community. Welcome home, Louzanne! Your achievements have made us all proud!

News Archive

“Stick to your dreams, reach your destiny,” Zahara tells class of 2012
2012-09-07

Foto: Thabo Kessah
5 September 2012

Grade 12 learners from more than 30 schools in the Eastern Free State recently attended the Qwaqwa Campus Open Day where they were addressed by singer Zahara. She entertained the learners with hits like Loliwe, Umthwalo and Destiny and she advised the Class of 2012 to stick to their dreams if they wanted to reach their destinies. The Vice-Rector: External Relations, Dr Choice Makhetha, also addressed the learners and told the packed Rolihlahla Mandela Hall never to allow their disadvantaged backgrounds to influence their futures. “I was also in your shoes years ago. I know how it feels to come from a poor family. But I am here today and proud to say I am part of the leadership of one of the best universities in the world,” said Dr Makhetha. Learners then visited various faculties and departments to see what they offered and also had the opportunity to apply for placement in the 2013 academic year.

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