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15 April 2025 | Story Anthony Mthembu | Photo Supplied
Kay-leigh van Rooyen
Kay-Leigh van Rooyen, Research Assistant at the University of the Free State (UFS), was one of sixteen individuals selected to participate in the 2024 Abe Bailey Travel Bursary.

As one of only sixteen recipients of the prestigious 2024 Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, Kay-Leigh van Rooyen, Research Assistant at the University of the Free State (UFS), recently returned from a life-changing journey across the United Kingdom. Representing the UFS on this esteemed programme, van Rooyen joined a cohort of emerging South African leaders in a transformative cultural and academic exchange. 

Reflecting on the experience, she described it as “nothing short of amazing.” 

“The experience was so much more than just visiting new places,” she said. “It was about engaging in meaningful conversations, forming lasting relationships, and gaining fresh perspectives on global issues.”

The Abe Bailey Travel Bursary aims to empower young South Africans through leadership development, cross-cultural exchange, and exposure to international dialogue. According to van Rooyen, this initiative was a powerful platform for personal growth, enabling her to see the world – and South Africa - through new lens.

“I learned the power of perspective - how others view our country, and how to understand global challenges from diverse vantage points,” she said. “I also realised that leadership is not about titles, but about influence and empathy.” 

 

A journey through the UK 

The bursary cohort convened in Cape Town on 23 November 2023 before departing for the UK, where they travelled from London to Edinburgh and back. The programme officially concluded on 18 December 2024/3. 

During the tour, the group visited iconic institutions such as the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the British Library, the Francis Crick Institute, and the Houses of Parliament. For van Rooyen, the highlight was the opportunity to engage with thought leaders and changemakers. 

“One of the most memorable moments was having lunch in a chamber of the House of Lords at the Palace of Westminster with Lord Karan Bilimoria, the founder and chairman of Cobra Beer. The conversation was insightful and inspiring,” she said.  

 

A global stage for the UFS

Van Rooyen emphasised the professional impact of the experience, noting how it shaped her perspective on the role of academia in society. 

“This experience has changed the way I approach my work. I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry - especially how we can make research more practical and impactful,” she explained. 

She also highlighted the broader benefit for the UFS community. 

“Global engagements like these position the UFS as part of the international conversation. Our students and staff have valuable insights to share,  and we can learn so much from other institutions.” 

Prof Vasu Reddy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation at the UFS and Chair of the university’s Abe Bailey Travel Bursary selection committee, echoed these sentiments. 

“The Travel Bursary so elegantly aligns with the vision and heart of the UFS - namely, to expose our students to a wider world and its global connections,” he said. 

 

Inspiring the next generation of UFS leaders 

Encouraging fellow UFS staff and students to apply for the bursary, van Rooyen emphasised the personal and professional rewards. 

“It challenges you to think critically, engage meaningfully, and build relationships with people you wouldn’t ordinarily meet,” she said. 

Prof Reddy praised van Rooyen for her achievements and representation of the UFS on a global stage.  

“Her experiences and insights demonstrate that she is an exceptional ambassador – not only as an Abe Bailey alumnus, but also as a symbol of the excellence the UFS strives for. We are extremely proud of Kay-Leigh and wish her well as we look forward to the great things that lie ahead for her.”

 

 

News Archive

Drama Department produces international stars
2011-05-20

 
Jefferson Dirks-Korkee en Mart Kotze
Photo: Leonie Bolleurs

Forbidden desires, secrets, lies and intrigue. Add a few well-known South African actors like Deon Lotz and Robin Smith for interpretation and you get the first Afrikaans South African film ever to be shown at the Cannes Film Festival from 11-22 May 2011.

It is all very well, but where does the University of the Free State (UFS) fit into the picture?

Jefferson Dirks-Korkee and Mart Kotze, two of our drama students – Jefferson being an Honours student and Mart a master’s student – each scored a small role in the film Skoonheid, when director Oliver Hermanus sent a team to Bloemfontein for auditions.

Skoonheid is the first Afrikaans South African film that has been nominated for a Cannes award. “Robert de Niro is the president of the panel of adjudicators,” says an excited Jefferson, who plays in a silent scene in the film. He and Mart, who plays a cashier, are very pleased with the opportunity to appear in this production.

Although it is the first time that Jefferson appears in front of the cameras, he has already participated in a few stage productions like Jonas and Boermanie. Mart also featured in Boermanie and Tailor Made.

They invite everyone to their performances at this year’s Vryfees in July. In Piet se tante Jefferson will debut as Windvoël and Mart will play as Lucia-Anne in Die kaskenades van Kees Kieswetter.
 

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