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13 January 2025 | Story Dr Nitha Ramnath | Photo Sonia Small
Prof Brownhilder Neneh
Prof Brownhilder Neneh stands out as an inspiring force for students and aspiring entrepreneurs.

In the dynamic intersection of tradition and innovation within academia, Prof Brownhilder Neneh, Vice-Dean: Research, Engagement and Internationalisation in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS), stands out as an inspiring force for students and aspiring entrepreneurs. Her remarkable career trajectory – ascending rapidly through the ranks from senior lecturer to head of department, and ultimately to full professor – has been marked not only by professional accolades, but by a deep, personal impact on the lives of her students and the broader entrepreneurial community. 

Personal moments of student connection  

Reflecting on her career, Prof Neneh’s achievements are impressive. “The best moment of my career is twofold,” she explains. “Professionally, I am incredibly grateful for the success I’ve achieved in less than a decade. Being promoted to professor, launching my book this year, and being consistently recognised as one of the top-cited researchers in the world over the past two years – it’s all been surreal.” 

However, it is the personal connections with her students that leave the most lasting impression. One student shared a heartfelt message, recalling how Prof Neneh’s encouragement helped her persevere through academic challenges. “You have everything it takes to succeed,” Prof Neneh had told her, transforming her outlook on her studies. Another student credited Prof Neneh’s words of encouragement with sparking a journey of self-acceptance, reminding her that “the best is yet to come.” These experiences highlight the profound influence of mentorship and the power of positive reinforcement. 

Building entrepreneurial competencies 

Prof Neneh’s research centres on fostering entrepreneurial skills, with a particular focus on youth and women. “I wish people knew that my work is about making a real, tangible difference,” she notes. Her research addresses the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, including the complexities of work-life balance and societal pressures. By providing evidence-based strategies drawn from her extensive experience, Prof Neneh seeks to empower those navigating the intersection of family and business obligations. 

She also emphasises the obstacles facing young entrepreneurs, such as limited access to resources and a fear of failure. “These challenges can deter aspiring entrepreneurs from taking risks and pursuing their dreams,” Prof Nene says. Her approach to teaching entrepreneurship is rooted in practical, evidence based advice, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions, employ ‘effectual reasoning’ in building their ventures with available resources – and commit to lifelong learning. “Training doesn’t stop at obtaining a degree. It’s about continually seeking knowledge and adapting to the market,” she asserts. 

Prof Neneh also advocates collaboration through a concept she calls ‘coopetition’ – where competition fosters cooperation, particularly in overcoming resource constraints. This mindset has been especially valuable during times of crisis, such as the recent pandemic, when industries banded together for collective growth. 

For budding entrepreneurs, Prof Neneh offers a wealth of practical advice. She stresses the importance of validating the market before launching a business, while cautioning against entering fields devoid of passion or thorough preparation. Her guiding principle? “Invest wisely and understand the needs of your target market.” 

Creating ripples of positive impact 

Looking ahead, Prof Neneh embodies resilience. “I wouldn’t change anything in my life. Every challenge has been a lesson,” she reflects. Her experiences have not only shaped her career, but also strengthened her sense of purpose. “Stay true to your values and purpose,” is the advice she follows, ensuring her life’s work continues to create ripples of positive impact. 

Prof Neneh is not only an academic; she is a champion for change, dedicated to uplifting others through her research, mentorship, and community initiatives such as ‘She Believe’, a peer support group focused on empowering women. As she continues to inspire future generations, her story serves as a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial journey is not merely about financial success – it is about transformative impact and demonstrating resilience. 

The belief that “the best is yet to come” resonates not only in Prof Neneh’s life, but also with everyone who has the privilege of learning from her.

News Archive

Kovsies reign FNB Superbowl
2007-05-10

The FNB Super Bowl took place from 26 – 30 April in Potchefstroom.
The Kovsies reigned the tournament in their respective categories.
It was an absolute mega Intervarsity. The following tournaments took place in which Kovsies was represented.
 
Senior rugby tournament
The Shimlas won their first game against TUT 33-0
In the Semi-final Shimlas lost against Pukke 17-8.
The Shimlas played for third and fourth place against Tukkies and won the game 41-19. Which secured them the third place in the tournament.
 
The following teams participated in the tournament
Pukke, UJ, Shimlas, Tukkies, Maties, NMMU, TUT, UCT
 
SA Students team
The following Shimlas were selected for the SA student games:
Steph Roberts (prop)
Drikus Strydom (hooker)
Philip Steyn (lock)
Marlin Ruiters (Scrumhalf)
Marcel du Toit (flyhalf)
 
Pharmaton Junior Rugby Tournament
The Kovsies u/21 & u/19 teams won their respective tournaments. It is a wonderful accomplishment for the University. The following teams took part in the tournament: Kovsies, Pukke, Tukkies and UJ.
 
u/21 results
Won Pukke 12-11
Won UJ 22-18
Won Tukkies 47-16
 
u/19 results
Won UJ 9-8
Won Pukke 25-13
Won Tukkies 25-16
 
Hostel Rugby Tournament
Reitz and Armentum represented Kovsies. These two teams played against each other in the final which Reitz won 47-0. To have both our hostel teams in the final is an outstanding accomplishment for Kovsies.
The following Universities took park: Kovsies, Pukke, Tukkies and UJ
 
Reitz results
Won Sonop (UJ): 27-7
Won Patria (Pukke): 11-10
Bastion (Tukkies): withdraw
Won Armentum in the final: 47-0
 
Armentum results
Won Overs (Pukke): 15-7
Won Afslaan: 49-12
Won Boekenhout: 43-0
Lost against Reitz in the final: 47-0
 
Hostel Soccer
Veritas represented Kovsies and won Kiaat from Tukkies in the final with 3-1 after a penalty shoot-out.
 
Hostel Netball
Vergeet-my-nie and Emily Hobhouse represented Kovsies. Vergeet-my-nie lost in the final against Wanda from Pukke17-14.
 
Hostel Cricket
Vishuis lost in the final against Villagers from Pukke with 5 wickets.
 
Hostel Hockey
Wag-‘n-Bietjie and Vergeet-my-nie represented Kovsies. Unfortunetly none of them went through to the finals.
 
 We won most of the games against the strongest Universities in the country is an outstanding accomplishment for Kovsies.
 
Compiled by
Ansu Colditz
Rugby Manager

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