First, on 7 June 2017, MBA alumni gathered at the Leopard Park Golf Estate in Mahikeng. One of the main topics of discussion during the meeting was the importance of giving back to the university and different ways to do so, for instance raising funds for the Meal-a-Day project that supplies needy students with at least one healthy meal per day.

 

At the meeting, alumni also decided to write to other MBA alumni, stressing the important role they can play in supporting their alma mater.

 

Positive mood among Bloemfontein alumni

 

Then, on 23 June, Warren Makgowe, director for stakeholder relations, and Susan van Rooyen, alumni relations practitioner, attended an alumni meeting and dinner at the Protea Hotel in Brandwag, Bloemfontein.

 

There they learned that the alumni were enthusiastic about establishing a chapter in that city, with the purpose of functioning as a conduit between them and the university.

 

During the meeting the NWU staff told the alumni about the latest developments at the NWU and the challenges facing the campus in Mahikeng. Alumni were also invited to share their experiences of the workplace and what they have achieved since graduating from the NWU.

 

A discussion about fundraising also prompted positive responses from the alumni.

 

Alumnus speaks to women from a man’s perspective

 

On 26 August 2017, alumnus Thato Mashishi, a 25-year-old candidate attorney with the law firm Fasken Martineau, spoke to female students during an event organised by the Residence Council 2017 in partnership with the Mahikeng Chapter of the Golden Key International Honour Society.

 

Thato, also a Golden Key member, gave a man’s perspective on the role of women in leadership under the theme “Know your worth”.