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For the seventh time this year, more than two hundred women of SU's RC Operations and Finance accepted Prof Stan du Plessis, our COO's invitation to came together on Women's Day to celebrate together. This year, SU's Facilities Management Division hosted an elegant and beautiful event on Webersburg Wine Estate, outside Stellenbosch, with the theme of "back to basics".
The SUFM team pulled out all the stops for this event, and planning started long ago. Just ask Meg Pittaway, who planted enough succulents a year ago so each attendee could take home a special plant to remind them of being a special woman.
Rouve Hlosek and a small team of SUFM women ensured that nothing was out of place, while MC Mandisa Matross, with her unbelievable energy, kept the show running throughout the afternoon. The food was absolutely delicious, and one could not have asked for better weather.
FM's Chief Director, Nicolette van den Eijkel, said it was wonderful to work with the team and be involved in even the smallest details, like decorating the gifts. "It really was a SUFM affair where we used what we had to keep the costs down but still ensure that it was an elegant event. I liked the atmosphere of the day and felt comfortable and relaxed during the event."
Guest speaker Bertina Engelbrecht, the Chief Executive Officer of the Clicks Group and a member of SU's Council, took us back to her roots in New Bethesda, where she was born. She shared her life and work story with us: from small beginnings, to where she is now one of our country's most successful women leaders.
In an interview with Nicolette, Bertina talked about how important it is for a person to be authentic. "Know yourself and understand which strength areas you need to improve and develop. Be true to yourself and care for yourself. Always practice gratitude and giving back. And importantly, do not be afraid to ask for help," she emphasised.
Elzette Lourens, from our Finance Division, said she was immensely impressed with Bertina's ambition and what she has achieved. "She came across as a genuine person with her feet firmly on the ground."
Bertina believes that organisations and businesses will only succeed if they prioritise people. "It was clear that Bertina really cares about and appreciates the people she works with," said Mariana Fourie from Information Technology.
Bertina regards herself as an inclusive leader who listens and engages with people. In a previous interview, she said, "I'd like to be known as somebody who embraces their humanity, is kind and generous with their time, and has empathy. I try to be as authentic as possible—I'm the same person in my private life as I am at work."
One of the guests remarked, "The best of today was the interview with Bertina Engelbrecht. To me, it was the absolute highlight. She shared so many gems that I could take with me on my career and life paths. Thank you for introducing me to this remarkable, unpretentious, strong, and accomplished woman."
Nicolette said that although the function was hard work, this event brought together a group of women in her team who would typically spend less time working together. "We learned a lot about each other and grew through the experience of creating an event that would be enjoyed by all."
And did the guests have a ball? Of course, they did, said most of the women who attended the event when asked for their opinion in a survey afterwards. They loved the guest speaker, the venue, and the food, and they enjoyed the MC tremendously — the MC was absolutely fantastic! Some even showed off their singing talents in the Karaoke slot after lunch.
Asking some of the women what they liked most about the function, here are some of the remarks:
"It's lovely to be spoiled and to see so many women just enjoying the moment."
"I loved the simplicity of the event - simple but absolutely stunning with delicious food. It also did not feel like a forced work function where you must participate in things that make you uncomfortable in the work setting. Well done FM."
"Celebrating with wonderful women in our RC."
"Thank you to everyone who spend time and effort in making this event special. It is an annual highlight and not to be taken for granted. Additionally, Prof. Stan remains humble and this is not a PR stunt, merely a thank you to remarkable women in his team."
"It was about all the women, a celebration of everyone."
Dan Prata, FM's Director Facilities Services, teamed up with his talented wife and played photographer for the day. The photos they took and the ones our colleagues took during the event wat shared on a photo platform. You can have a look at them here?
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