This is Chanelle Vermaak’s mantra. Not only did it help to keep her motivated during her undergraduate and later postgraduate studies in Information and Computer Science (BSc), but it is also what carries her trough every challenge that life may pose.
For Chanelle, an alumna of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, this clear-cut mathematical logic, has enabled her to obtain both her first degree (BSc IT) and postgraduate degree (Hons BSc Computer Science and Information Systems) with distinction. She performed so well during her postgraduate studies that she was acknowledged as the top performing 4th year student amongst the Denel bursary programme scholars. During a recent award ceremony she was applauded as Denel’s Top Young Achiever for 2017.
Chanelle started her tertiary education journey in 2013 at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, after successfully completing the National Senior Certificate examination in 2012 at the Ferdinand Postma High School in Potchefstroom. “I fell in love with the Vaal Campus. Its beautiful surroundings and relaxed atmosphere made the Campus my first choice,” remembers Chanelle and adds that a walk next to the river does wonders for one’s soul.
From the word go, Chanelle made her presence known as was awarded as top academic achiever throughout her studies (2013 -2016) – by no means an easy feat! According to Chanelle she will always hold two lecturers, Mrs Elna van der Merwe and Ms Daleen Gerber – both from the Faculty of Economic Sciences and Information Technology, in high regard for their teachings and guidance. “My father is my ultimate role model,” says Chanelle and adds that he is the one person who she always strives to make proud since he has showed her that one should never let your past define your future.
After completing her honours degree, Chanelle joined Denel Dynamics – a division of Denel SOC Ltd, as a trainee Business Analyst (as part of an internship programme).
Denel Dynamics is an innovative leader in advanced systems technology. Its core business includes tactical missiles, precision guided weapons, unmanned aerial vehicle systems and space solutions. Our products are designed, developed and manufactured in South Africa. Denel Dynamics is a strategic partner of the South African National Defence Force. The company also promotes collaboration and partnerships with other developing nations such as Brazil and the United Arab Emirates. Denel Dynamics products are also in service with other defence forces in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia and South America.
Chanelle Vermaak, an alumna of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, was recently announced as Denel’s Top Young Achiever for 2017.
