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The University of the Western Cape (UWC) strengthened its ties with alumni in Gauteng with a two-day series of events held on 28 and 29 August 2025. Led by the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Balfour, the visit highlighted the University’s dedication to nurturing its alumni community and advancing its mission through collaboration and philanthropy. 

Professor Anesh Singh, Director of Institutional Advancement, Somayah Barnes from Alumni Relations and Bridget Bretherton from Donor Relations accompanied Prof Balfour at these key events.

On the evening of 28 August, UWC hosted an intimate dinner in Johannesburg attended by 30 alumni. The gathering served as both a reunion for long-standing supporters of the University and a warm welcome for new alumni joining as ambassadors. During the evening, Professor Singh emphasised the importance of maintaining strong connections with the University and illustrated how alumni involvement can make a tangible difference by supporting UWC’s campaigns and initiatives. 

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A number of enthusiastic alumni stepped forward to volunteer for the newly revived Johannesburg Alumni Chapter.  These included Mr Burton Joseph, Prof Makwena Modimola, Mr Moses Pieterse, Ms Welan Spogter, Mr Thabo Lawrence Mohale, Ms Sibongile Ndashe, Mr Bonginkosi Ndimande, and Mr Asiphe Cetywayo.

Professor Balfour shared his vision for UWC’s future, focusing on key priorities such as curriculum renewal, improved infrastructure, and the advancement of the University’s anchor strategy within the Bellville precinct. He stressed that UWC must not only be research-led but must distinguish itself as a research leader on both national and international levels. The alumni engaged actively with this vision, posing thoughtful questions about the University’s strategic direction. 

Professor Balfour confirmed that the Institutional Operating Plan for 2026 to 2030 is  being developed to guide this next phase. When asked about the expansion of international alumni chapters, Professor Singh explained that while initial efforts concentrated on strengthening local chapters, UWC would soon be launching a Namibia Chapter in September, with plans for visits to the United States and the United Kingdom in 2026. The evening concluded on an uplifting note when alumni spontaneously pledged an additional R15 000 towards student bursaries — a gesture warmly appreciated by the UWC team.

The following day saw one of UWC’s largest alumni and corporate charity Golf Days to date, hosted at Killarney Country Club. Under bright spring sunshine, 88 players took to the course in a lively and spirited atmosphere. The day began with a warm welcome from headline sponsor Zimele Technologies, which treated players to refreshments at the first tee. Along the course, other sponsors added to the camaraderie and enjoyment. Fundi provided snacks and energy bars at Hole 3, Credit Guarantee Insurance Corporation offered soft drinks, biltong, dried fruit and other delicacies at Hole 7, while UWC’s security service provider, Securitas, delighted golfers with a variety of sweet and refreshing snacks.

Play wrapped up in the early evening, followed by dinner and a short address. Professor Balfour reminded guests of UWC’s balanced approach to education, where excellence in the classroom is matched by a strong commitment to professional sport. He called for continued investment in sport infrastructure, coaching and bursaries, highlighting UWC’s goal to provide students with “the best of both worlds” — academic success alongside sporting achievement. 

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Mr Thando Mjebeza, CEO of Zimele Technologies and a proud UWC alumnus, shared his journey and credited the University with laying the foundation for his personal and professional growth. He reaffirmed Zimele’s pledge of R1-million per year for three years, made in 2024, and encouraged other business leaders to make similar commitments.

The day ended with the announcement of the winning teams, and special recognition for Mr Sujen Padayachi and Mr Nival Porun from PSG for their outstanding performance.

The event was celebrated as a tremendous success, fostering alumni connections while advancing UWC’s fundraising goals.

The University also extended a special thanks to Bashkar Latchman for his ongoing support of the Golf Days and to PSG for their regular donation of prizes, both of which were instrumental in making the events possible.

This Gauteng visit invigorated UWC’s efforts to strengthen its alumni network and philanthropic support. With further alumni events and international chapters planned for the near future, UWC is on track to build a more engaged and connected global community committed to the University’s enduring success.

To relive the Alumni Event and the Golf Day, please click on the link.