By Jalize Fourie

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently transformed into a centre of inspiration, diversity, and meaningful connections as Men Evolve Meets Goddess Night brought students, staff, and alumni together under one roof.

The exciting event combined two long-standing initiatives – Men Evolve and Goddess Night – Into a single, dynamic platform that encouraged collaboration.

The event was a success, with the audience describing it as “transformative” and “a dream”. According to Lethiwe Kubeka, arts coordinator and event lead, the aim was to create a safe space where men and women could engage meaningfully while promoting holistic wellness and celebrating diversity.

The evening featured high-profile speakers, including Sibu Mabena, Sylvester Chauke, and Lethabo Maluleke, whose insights inspired students to reflect on their personal growth and choices. The audience engagement exceeded expectations, with conversations continuing long after the programme concluded.

Many requested that the Arts Unit host a full-day conference to continue the engagements and conversations. “Even before the evening began, students reacted with disbelief and excitement when the poster was released,” Lethiwe noted. By the end of the night, it was clear this was more than an event – it was a breakthrough.

Both lecturers and students engaged with the speakers side by side, removing barriers between academic and social restrictions and creating an atmosphere where both groups felt equally inspired.

The event’s impact has already sparked plans for future editions, with discussions to expand Men Evolve Meets Goddess Night as an annual event on the NWU calendar. Guest speaker Sibu also expressed interest in a potential collaboration with her brand, Duma Collective!