The NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter hosted a vibrant fundraising event on 02 November 2024, at the scenic Big Lapa of Vanderbijlpark Campus, with a powerful mission; to support final-year students burdened by debts under R5,000, enabling them to graduate and unlock new opportunities. The event buzzed with enthusiasm as alumni, staff, and special guests gathered for a relaxed, picnic-style gathering. The unique setting fostered connections, camaraderie, and a shared purpose, while also encouraging Convocation sign-ups to strengthen alumni bonds.
Organised by the committed NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter committee, under the guidance of the Vanderbijlpark Alumni Relations office, the event highlighted the university community’s dedication to making a tangible difference. Attendees enjoyed a thoughtfully crafted programme featuring influential speakers who underscored the value of alumni contributions and shared important campus updates. Mr Mpho Mosia, chairperson of the Vanderbijlpark Alumni Campus committee, warmly welcomed everyone, setting a positive tone for the day. Mr Chris Williams, Director of Student Life at Vanderbijlpark Campus, presented updates on behalf of the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sibusiso Chalufu while Mr Nkosinathi Tom, NWU Convocation Acting President and Director of Strategic Partnerships, spoke about Convocation initiatives and upcoming elections. The program also featured insights from Mr Silvanus Welcome, Director of Development and Fundraising at Vanderbijlpark Campus, who detailed ongoing fundraising efforts. The day was masterfully guided by program director Mr Morena Tsotetsi (the NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chairperson, ensuring a seamless and engaging flow of events.
The funds raised are earmarked for two significant initiatives. In 2023 The NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter presented a cheque for R90,000 to Vanderbijlpark Campus Management to assist final-year students with outstanding debts below R5,000, ensuring they can graduate and seize new opportunities. An additional R20,000 was allocated to the "Meal a Day" initiative, aimed at addressing food insecurity among students—a vital step toward supporting academic success and well-being.
Key to the success of the event was the support from partners like MDNTV, a forward-thinking digital news platform that contributed R10,000. This generous support underscores their commitment to education and community engagement. “MDNTV is eager to establish a collaborative relationship with North-West University, combining our shared commitment to innovation, education, and community engagement,” said Siphumelele Nene, Managing Editor. The collaboration promises a future filled with impactful partnerships, driving educational initiatives and nurturing community bonds.
Ms Zanele Ngobese, Alumni Relations Practitioner at Vanderbijlpark Campus, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders. “The overwhelming support from alumni, both near and far, played a pivotal role in the event’s success. The NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter’s ability to inspire graduates to give back demonstrates the strength of the university’s
community spirit and the enduring connections fostered during their time on campus,” she said.
The NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter reaffirms its commitment to fostering a community that empowers and uplifts its members, ensuring brighter futures for students and creating lasting change.
Mr Morena Tsotetsi – NWU Vaal Young Alumni Chapter Chairperson
Mr Mpho Mosia – NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus Alumni Committee Chairperson
Mr Chris Williams – NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus Student Life Director
Mr Silvanus Welcome – NWU Development & Fundraising Director
Morena Tsotetsi, Innocentia Mphuthi, Lerato Mofokeng, and Mpho Mosia (Current & former chairpersons)
Mr Nkosinathi Tom – NWU Convocation acting President
