The University of the Free State recently welcomed back one of its most celebrated alumni, Rolene Strauss, for an inspiring Alumni Career Connect event focused on turning ambition into meaningful success.

A medical doctor, entrepreneur, author, and internationally recognised speaker, Strauss first captured global attention when she was crowned Miss South Africa and later Miss World. Yet, her return to the Bloemfontein Campus highlighted a different chapter of her journey: building purpose-driven ventures and challenging conventional career paths.

Reflecting on her decision to launch her own brand, RS Sunglasses, Strauss shared how shifting one’s mindset can unlock new opportunities.

“Throughout my life, I have heard people say that medical doctors are not good businesspeople,” she explained. “I realised I was still wearing lenses that were holding me back in entrepreneurship. Once I removed those lenses of doubt, everything changed.”

Her message encouraged students to examine the beliefs that shape how they see opportunities and success. It came after the meeting with Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, earlier in the day. 

Entrepreneurship as a pathway to impact

Joining Strauss on stage was her husband, Daniel Strauss – venture capitalist, author, and entrepreneur – and his business partner Wayne Stocks, who shared practical insights on building businesses and navigating the realities of entrepreneurship.

Daniel Strauss, who has spent more than a decade investing in start-ups, emphasised the role that entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth and job creation.

“Every person who becomes an entrepreneur creates an opportunity for someone who is looking for a job,” he said. “Entrepreneurs are the people who grow the economy and create the jobs that reduce unemployment.”

He also challenged the idea that major success stories only happen abroad, noting that innovative companies and global-scale ventures are increasingly emerging from South Africa.

Unlocking innovation through the University Technology Fund

Stocks highlighted how initiatives such as the University Technology Fund (UTF) are helping to transform research and ideas from universities into real businesses.

Founded by Daniel Strauss and Stocks, the UTF focuses on investing in promising innovations emerging from South African universities and helping founders turn research into scalable ventures.

“There is incredible research happening at our universities,” Stocks explained. “Our goal is to help take those ideas from the lab and turn them into companies that can grow, create jobs, and make an impact.”

He also stressed the importance of partnerships and trust in the entrepreneurial journey. “If you are building a business, choose the people you work with carefully, whether they are co-founders or investors. They become part of the journey with you.”

Inspiring the next generation

The Alumni Career Connect initiative aims to connect students with accomplished UFS alumni who are shaping industries and communities across the country.