The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce that five of its esteemed women trailblazers have been named finalists in the Higher Education Resource Services South Africa (HERS-SA) Higher Education Women Leaders Awards (HEWLA).
The NWU finalists are Prof Linda du Plessis, Prof Marinda Neethling, Dr Keaobaka Seshoka, Dr Susan Greyling and Zanobia Kanjee.
The awards ceremony, set to take place on 29 August 2024 at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, celebrates the exceptional achievements of South African women in higher education.
HERS-SA is dedicated to the advancement and leadership development of women in the higher education sector. As a registered non-profit organisation, HERS-SA has long championed the career and leadership development of women in academia through carefully crafted programmes. These awards are a testament to their impactful work and the significant contributions of women in the sector.
Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, has been nominated in the Trailblazer category. This nomination acknowledges her pioneering contributions to the university and her role in shaping the future of higher education through innovative strategies and leadership.
She describes working at an institution like the NWU as a great privilege, where growth opportunities are presented. “The fact that one’s work is recognised is especially rewarding, making it a humbling and gratifying experience.”
Her advice to women aspiring to take on leadership roles in academia is to not doubt their capabilities. "Be intentional in everything you do every day, whether it's being on time, showing an ethic of care, deciding how to spend your time, or following through on promises. Even if you are not feeling 100 percent ready or confident, be brave and seize opportunities when they arise."
Finalist in the Women in Humanities and Social Science category is associate professor for learner support in the Faculty of Education, Prof Marinda Neethling. She has a strong commitment to developing and assisting early childhood educators, especially in marginalised areas, as she believes in their enormous ability to change children's lives.
“Our shared belief that every child deserves access to high-quality early childhood education drives my commitment to being a catalyst for positive change,” she says.
Her extensive research and teaching and learning philosophy focuses on community engagement and her dedication have significantly enriched the academic community, making her a deserving candidate for this honour.
Dr Keaobaka Seshoka, director of the Language Directorate, is recognised in the Emerging Young Women Leaders (Support) category. She is celebrated for her dynamic leadership and support within the university. Her efforts in fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment, as well as transforming the NWU’s language policy and its delivery, have had a significant impact. These contributions have been instrumental in advancing the university’s mission and vision.
“I find immense joy in playing a pivotal role in enhancing communication and understanding among people from different linguistic backgrounds. It is a privilege to be a knowledge transmitter, bridging the linguistic gap and fostering mutual understanding.”
Recognised in the category Women in Academic Administration is Dr Susan Greyling, academic manager in the Unit for Distance Learning and member of the Community-based Educational Research focus area in the Faculty of Education.
She is passionate about her work and is dedicated to assisting students across the country, helping them realise their dreams, resolve their issues, and make a difference in their lives. She describes being nominated as an accomplishment that brings a deep sense of gratitude and humility, acknowledging the support and guidance she has received from God, colleagues, peers, students and loved ones. "It feels like a sign of divine approval or guidance, suggesting that I am on the right path," she says.
Zanobia Kanjee, head of e-Learning in the Unit for Distance Learning has been nominated in the Women in Support Services category, an acknowledgement of her exceptional contributions to the university’s support services.
She has been working at the unit for the past eight years, and says the most enjoyable part of her work is implementing strategies and observing how everything comes together to create a beautiful and cohesive canvas that benefits students and lecturers.
“It feels really great to be recognised for the hard work, strides and efforts. I hope to inspire others, especially young women, to always believe in themselves, lead with courage and determination and most importantly, to never underestimate the transformative power of education.”
These nominations reflect the high calibre of talent at the NWU and underscore the university's commitment to fostering an environment where women can thrive and lead. The HEWLA awards are a testament to the impactful roles these women play in higher education, celebrating their dedication, innovation and leadership.
The NWU is immensely proud of these finalists and congratulates them on their remarkable achievements. The university eagerly anticipates the awards ceremony, where the achievements of South African women in higher education will be honoured and celebrated.
Prof Linda du Plessis
Prof Marinda Neethling
Dr Keaobaka Seshoka
Dr Susan Greyling
Zanobia Kanjee
