“Leadership is not a title, but a responsibility, and I am honoured to carry it forward.”
These words capture the heart of the moment as the North-West University (NWU) celebrates the election of Mario Chauque as the new president-elect of the South African Association for Counselling and Development in Higher Education (SAACDHE) for the 2025 to 2027 term.
Mario’s journey has been built on consistency, compassion and a deep commitment to student development, making this national recognition both fitting and inspiring.
He has been an active member of SAACDHE since 2016, always showing up, always contributing, always bringing calm, clarity and purpose into the room. When he hosted the SAACDHE national conference in 2022, it became clear that he was not just participating, he was leading. His new role places him right where he belongs, guiding national conversations about mental health, wellness and the evolving needs of students in higher education.
His reach already stretches far beyond our borders. In May 2024, he attended the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) conference in Washington, DC, gaining valuable insight into global health research and community engagement. Later in the year, he represented the region at the SARIMA conference in Maputo, deepening his understanding of research and innovation management. And from 2025 to 2027, he will serve on the Global Community Advisory Board of the HVTN Scientific Governance Committee, representing South Africa on an international stage. That is impact. That is influence with purpose.
Mario continues to invest in the NWU community. He leads the Student Wellness Programme in Student Counselling and Development and coordinates the NWU SALT peer education team of 50 volunteers who champion wellness, leadership and student success. He brings the same heart to his role in the NWU Staff Sports Club, where many simply call him Chair. And honestly, the club could not be prouder to have him guiding them.
Mario’s academic journey reflects the same dedication. He holds honours degrees in psychology and industrial and organisational psychology, as well as a postgraduate diploma in psychological counselling, and he is in the final year of his master’s degree in social work.
Mario’s election as president-elect is a moment of pride for him, for the university and for everyone who has seen his commitment first-hand. It speaks to excellence, humility and service. The kind of leadership we celebrate.
Congratulations, Mario. Whoop whoop, Chair. We see you. We are proud.
Mario Chauque.
