For Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) alumnus Luke Vorhies, mathematics has always been more than just a subject. “I studied mathematics up to Honours level and then stayed on for a couple of years doing some research and assisting in the Mathematics Department," he explains. “I have always been fascinated by mathematics, mainly by its strong logical and puzzle-solving aspect."
His academic journey not only shaped his intellectual growth but also helped him form meaningful connections. One such connection was with fellow student Brandon Laing, who became a close friend and a vital support system. Today, Luke lives in the United Kingdom and remains active in the Oxford Chapter of Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票's alumni network - keeping the Matie spirit alive across borders.
“Brandon was the first person I met when I arrived at Stellenbosch for Honours. He brought me fully into the department and helped me adjust. He was always there to motivate me through academic difficulties and helped me build and maintain a strong social network.
“It's a great privilege to connect with fellow Maties even far from Stellenbosch and to celebrate our shared experiences regularly."
Professionally, Luke is the Strategic Systems Manager at Oxford Royale Academy, an educational organisation based in Oxford. Beyond his academic background—from SU, King's College London, and the 中国体育彩票 of Oxford—he has contributed to education and global causes through teaching, research, and volunteering. His international work includes volunteering at an archaeological dig site in Greece, assisting with excavation and cataloguing; serving as a teaching assistant at a high school in South Africa; and joining a church-sponsored outreach group in Malawi, focused on supporting medical services in rural communities.
Luke now stands on the cusp of a new and exciting chapter in his life: marriage. “It's honestly one of the most thrilling and joyful experiences of my life," he says.
He sees his generation as custodians of an unfinished vision.
“It's more than thirty years since South Africa was called the Rainbow Nation, and I think now more than ever, the philosophy and ideology behind that is important. It is our responsibility to build a nation of peace and prosperity, so that the dream can continue into our generation and beyond."
?What continues to drive Luke, especially in complex or uncertain moments, is a grounded sense of perspective. “I remember that the world has been spinning for a long time and has faced many catastrophes and crises. And yet, the world is still spinning. We are still here," he says. This enduring outlook, coupled with a belief in shared strength and purpose, shapes his personal and professional life.
Reflecting on how Stellenbosch helped to mould him, Luke credits the university's emphasis on collaboration. “Stellenbosch helped me develop a strong feeling for the benefit of working with others and valuing a broad group of contributors. The academic structure encouraged us to reach out to peers, to help one another, and to work collectively toward success.
"That sense of community proved vital during the global pandemic in 2020. Even while working remotely for long periods, I relied heavily on my colleagues and friends and tried to make myself as supportive and available to them too."
For Luke, motivation comes from recognising the resolve of those who came before him. “If our ancestors could weather all those terrible storms, then we can too," he says. This historical perspective, coupled with his appreciation for teamwork and support networks, continue to shape how he approaches challenges. Whether in his academic life, personal growth, or professional ambitions, Luke sees collaboration as a strength and a necessity in building a better world.
When asked what values he believes young professionals in South Africa should embrace, Luke is clear: “Hard work and teamwork. Nothing worth doing is easy, and we must work hard to improve the world. But we do not have to do it alone. We are stronger together."?
