Stenden South Africa Alumni

05/05/2025

Hi, I’m Tanya Magrimo from little old East London, South Africa. I started at Stenden in 2013 and after completing my internship at Lord Selborne Guest House I graduated from Stenden SA in May 2016. After graduating I pursued my career in both Hospitality and Luxury Sales.

I have always had a passion for working with people and working at a game reserve and assisting couples in finding their Forever Diamonds. I initially started teaching online after completing my TESOL and was planning on going to Mainland China which was very daunting to say the least. I then reached out to Jordan Bartlett our Chapter Captain for SSA AA Asia and she put me into contact with my future employer.

I have been in Hong Kong since July 2020 and I have worked at a Learning Centre, Kindergarten and I am now in my second year as a Primary School Teacher.

What interested you moving to Asia ?

Asia wasn’t my first choice to be honest, but I knew a number of people who had gone to Asia, so it seemed a safer option. At the time I moved to HK I knew at least three Stenden Alumni that I could reach out to in case of emergency. (I was a small city girl who had never lived more than 2 hours from home, let alone to go to another continent.)

What was your most challenging aspect when you were adjusting to working abroad let alone Asia?

The weather was probably the most challenging aspect for me, I remember my first morning walking outside and having the humidity literally take my breath away. With regards to everything else, I honestly had no expectations so everything was just as challenging as it would be starting a new job anywhere. I met some friends on my flight here and most of which I am still very close with. Having that support system from the start (quarantine buddies) really helped me because we discovered many things together. *Quarantine buddies*- we had to take a repatriation flight from SA because of Lockdown and had to do 2 weeks Government Quarantine when we first arrived in HK.

What are your Hobbies, What Social Clubs are you a part of that are unique to that part of the world? (Life outside of work)

Outside work mostly consists of hitting the gym and socialising with friends. I do however enjoy my solitude, so I have to make time to recharge my social battery after being overstimulated almost daily by a ton of questions.

What are your goals in terms of choosing to work outside of South Africa or your Home Country?

The main goal is to build a better future for myself and future family. I do also want to inspire people around me, be it friends, family or even the community I grew up in to expand their horizons. Growing up I did not know many people who had gone abroad to work. I love South Africa but I urge everyone, if they have the resources- to try and work abroad, even if it’s just for a few months.

What other countries have you travelled to?

Not as many as I thought I would have… Thailand and India, both of which was to celebrate a close friend’s wedding festivities, but who knows where the road will take me next.

If you are an Stenden Alumni based in Asia, please can you reach out to (Jordan Bartlett - [email protected]) who is the Chapter Captain for the Alumni Association, Asia Region. We are launching the Asia Chapter soon so it would be great for us to reconnect again !

29/04/2025

Stenden South Africa Alumni Association | Asia Chapter - Member Interview...

I graduated from Stenden South Africa in 2016 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management. My career began at Zimbali Resort in Ballito, where I took on a leadership role as Front Office Supervisor. Eager to broaden my skill set, I also gained experience in other departments, including Banqueting and Events. In 2020, during the COVID-19 outbreak, I relocated back to Taiwan to ensure my grandmother had access to better medical infrastructure. Since then, I’ve transitioned into education and have been teaching English, finding a new passion in helping others grow through language.



What interested you moving to Asia ?

My decision to move to Asia was primarily for the well-being of my grandmother. As a Taiwanese dual citizen, I had the advantage of relocating easily and wanted to ensure she had access to a more advanced healthcare system, especially during the uncertainty of the pandemic.

What was your most challenging aspect when you were adjusting to working abroad let alone Asia ?
One of the most challenging aspects was definitely the culture shock, even though it was relatively minor. Being born and raised in South Africa, I was used to a different way of life, so adjusting to new social norms and work dynamics in Asia took some time. Additionally, leaving behind the strong connections and professional network I had built in South Africa was emotionally and professionally challenging.

What are your Hobbies, What Social Clubs are you a part of that are unique to that part of the world ? (Life outside of work)
I’ve always been a gamer, and luckily, Taiwan has top-tier internet infrastructure, so it's a great place to enjoy that hobby. In my free time, I’m usually either gaming or—somewhat involuntarily—volunteering with a local Buddhist organization that my grandma regularly signs me up for. It’s become a meaningful part of my routine, even if it wasn’t entirely by choice at first!

What are your goals in terms of choosing to work outside of South Africa or your Home Country ?

One of my long-term goals is to start a space that incorporates plants and crop cultivation. I’ve always felt a strong connection to my elder family members, who have passed down their love for gardening and growing their own food. It’s something I’ve grown to appreciate deeply, and if the opportunity ever arose to create a place like that—whether for personal fulfilment or community involvement—I’d jump at it without hesitation.

What other countries have you travelled to ?
I’ve had the opportunity to travel to several countries, including Singapore, South Korea, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Dubai. Each destination offered its own unique culture, food, and experiences, and traveling has really helped shape my perspective on the world.

Thank you to William for such an insightful interview into his life in Asia. If you are an Stenden Alumni based in Asia, please can you reach out to (Jordan Bartlett - [email protected]) who is the Chapter Captain for the Alumni Association, Asia Region. We are launching the Asia Chapter soon so it would be great to see us reconnect again !

17/04/2025

Jordan Bartlett is the Chapter Captain for Stenden South Africa Alumni Association - Asia Chapter. Jordan is based in Hong Kong, China and is working tirelessly to bring together our SSA Alumni who are in that part of the world. The SSA AA Asia Chapter will be officially launching soon and we are very excited about that development.

As a way to raise awareness about the Asia Chapter Launch, we will be profiling a few of our Alumni who are based in Asia over the next few weeks gearing up for the event.

Please read interview below...

Hi, my name is Jordan Bartlett, better known as Jords.

My journey with Stenden began in 2014 when I enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce in Hospitality Management. After doing my internship at the Mauritius at Long Beach Golf and Spa Resort and graduating in 2017.I spent nine months working in South Africa before deciding to take on a new adventure as an English teacher in Asia.

In 2018, I moved to Hong Kong, initially planning to stay for just one year. However, I quickly fell in love with the vibrant lifestyle and unique opportunities the city offers. Seven years later, I’m proud to say I recently received my Permanent Residency and have worked my way up in teaching. I am currently a Year 1 Classroom Teacher at an International British School.

a. What interested you in moving to Asia?

When I first considered moving to Asia, my plan was to spend a year teaching in various countries before returning to the hospitality industry. I was drawn to Asia because of my passion for engaging with diverse cultures and experiencing a different way of life. Additionally, several friends living in the region shared their positive experiences, which further fuelled my interest.

b. What was the most challenging aspect of adjusting to working abroad, especially in Asia?

The biggest challenge I faced was adapting to the different educational systems and cultural expectations. Hong Kong has its own unique approach to teaching and learning, which required me to be flexible and open-minded. Additionally, navigating a new environment and way of life took time and effort. Building a social network seemed pretty effortless, as the company I started with helped all new expats meet and socialise. Through them I made strong connections and family like friends. All of the challenges and positives ultimately led to personal growth.

c. What are your hobbies, and what social clubs are you a part of that are unique to this part of the world? (Life outside of work)

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym, meeting up with friends and playing Padel. I am currently not part of any social clubs, but looking at joining a Netball team for the next season.

d. What are your goals in terms of choosing to work outside of South Africa or your home country?

My goals have evolved significantly since I first moved. Initially, I aimed to travel and immerse myself in different cultures. Now, having dedicated myself to education, my primary goal is to develop my teaching skills further and contribute positively to the lives of my students while continuing to explore opportunities for professional growth.

e. What other countries have you traveled to?

Living in Asia has afforded me extensive travel opportunities. I’ve explored several countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Japan, and China. Each destination has offered unique experiences and insights that have enriched my understanding of the region.

14/02/2025

Dear Stenden Graduate Community

Happy Valentines Day!

I am excited to share the good news with you. The SSA Graduates Association, Eastern Cape Chapter is finally launched and active!

On the 1st of February 2025 we gathered in Port Alfred joined by Dr Hensens to officially launch what is the 2nd of 8 official Chapters for the Graduates Association. To remind everyone the Chapters are namely: 1.) Western Cape (launched 2024)
2.) Eastern Cape (launched Feb 2025)
3.) Kruger National Park
4.) Gauteng Province
5.) Zimbabwe
6.) Middle East
7.) Europe
8.) Asia

Chapter Captains have been appointed for most regions and will be announced alongside the launches which we are hopeful that all them will happen in the year of 2025. Dr Hensens had a dinner with some Alumni in Dubai so let’s keep our eyes peeled for what is to happen with that Chapter. We as an Alumni Organization are striving to build relationships with brands in the markets we live and work in so that the Alumni Events become fully sponsored and are no cost to our attendees. We had the privilege of the Manager of ABSA Bank, Port Alfred join us at the event to give a speech which assured us that they will ‘walk-the-journey’ with us as we grow from strength to strength.

Siya Mncube, who is working at Shamwari Private game Reserve, was elected as Chapter Captain and will be responsible for running Alumni Operations in his territory of the Eastern Cape, South Africa reporting to the SSA GA Executive Office. This is a great step as it relieves a lot of responsibility from the Executive Office. We will now to be able to focus on furthering other interests.

I really want to take a chance to express my gratitude to our Alumni who attended and want to express that these Chapter meet-ups are not Reunions but rather Alumni Networking Events. These are opportunities for us to introduce ourselves to each other as there are generational gaps that exist where you find that two people did not attend Stenden at the same time however are in the same city or region. It is a great crossroads for a Mentor-Mentee relationship so I urge everyone in the network to attend these events so we can add-value to each other.
The EC Chapter also made the local news “The Announcer” , the article will be found on the attachments.

Wishing you all a splendid weekend.

Yours Sincerely

Sipa Mzamo
Chairman
Stenden South Africa Graduates Association
M: +27(0)67 006 9943
www.stenden.ac.za

14/02/2025

Dear Stenden Graduate Community

Happy Valentines Day!

I am excited to share the good news with you. The SSA Graduates Association, Eastern Cape Chapter is finally launched and active!

On the 1st of February 2025 we gathered in Port Alfred joined by Dr Hensens to officially launch what is the 2nd of 8 official Chapters for the Graduates Association. To remind everyone the Chapters are namely:

1.) Western Cape (launched 2024)
2.) Eastern Cape (launched Feb 2025)
3.) Kruger National Park
4.) Gauteng Province
5.) Zimbabwe
6.) Middle East
7.) Europe
8.) Asia

Chapter Captains have been appointed for most regions and will be announced alongside the launches which we are hopeful that all them will happen in the year of 2025. Dr Henses had a dinner with some Alumni in Dubai so let’s keep our eyes peeled for what is to happen with that Chapter. We as an Alumni Organization are striving to build relationships with brands in the markets we live and work in so that the Alumni Events become fully sponsored and are no cost to our attendees. We had the privilege of the Manager of ABSA Bank, Port Alfred join us at the event to give a speech which assured us that they will ‘walk-the-journey’ with us as we grow from strength to strength.

Siya Mncube, who is working at Shamwari Private game Reserve, was elected as Chapter Captain and will be responsible for running Alumni Operations in his territoryof the Eastern Cape, South Africa reporting to the SSA GA Executive Office. This is a great step as it relieves a lot of responsibility from the Executive Office. We will now to be able to focus on furthering other interests.

I really want to take a chance to express my gratitude to our Alumni who attended and want to express that these Chapter meet-ups are not Reunions but rather Alumni Networking Events. These are opportunities for us to introduce ourselves to each other as there are generational gaps that exist where you find that two people did not attend Stenden at the same time however are in the same city or region. It is a great crossroads for a Mentor-Mentee relationship so I urge everyone in the network to attend these events so we can add-value to each other.
The EC Chapter also made the local news “The Announcer” , the article will be found on the attachments.

Wishing you all a splendid weekend.

Yours Sincerely



Kind Regards,


Sipa Mzamo
Chairman
Stenden South Africa Graduates Association
M: +27(0)67 006 9943
www.stenden.ac.za

31/01/2025

Farewell to a Giant ! Thank you for all you have done for the Stenden Community Mr Steyn.

After 15 years of guiding and empowering students, we say a heartfelt farewell to André Steyn, one of Stenden’s giants.

Your dedication to career development and internships has shaped countless futures, and your impact will always be remembered. Thank you for everything, André! Wishing you all the best in your next chapter 🙏🏻

www.stenden.ac.za | 🎓

29/01/2025

We are very proud of one of our own, TP Pillay. Wishing you continued success with your new venture.

Send a message to learn more

31/10/2024

Happy Diwali.

15/10/2024

Great Opportunities for Holiday Work seekers that might turn into something special!

Please get in touch with Rebecca Pol if you are interested in working the summer holiday at 'Barefoot Capital' aka Kenton-On-Sea.

11/10/2024

Join us for our next Open Day on Saturday, 19 October at 09h00 and discover what Stenden South Africa can offer you!
Explore our campus, take a tour of our 4-star boutique learning hotel, MyPond, and dive into detailed overviews of our B.Com in Hospitality Management and BBA in Disaster Relief Management degrees. We can’t wait to meet you 🎓
📍 1 Grand Street, Port Alfred
Secure your spot, WhatsApp us on 073 415 0622.
www.stenden.ac.za | 🌍

08/10/2024

So saddened by the passing of our Dear Mr Albert 'Rasta' Solani. Today Stenden South Africa paid tribute to him. What a touching Memorial. Rest now Rasta. 🙏

03/09/2024

"My name is Siviwe De Beer! Reflecting on my journey to attain the B.Com in Hospitality Management at Stenden South Africa fills me with pride and gratitude for the remarkable opportunities I've encountered. From developing leadership skills to navigating the complexities of a multicultural environment, my academic journey has been enriching and transformative.

During my time at Stenden, I had the privilege of serving on the Student Representative Council (SRC) as the Finance Manager. I was also nominated for the HVS THINC Africa 2017 Student of the Year award, and I participated in a global revenue management competition hosted by EURO Chrie.

My professional career began with an internship at the Hilton Sandton, where I worked as a Cluster Revenue Analyst. This role allowed me to apply the skills I gained from the revenue management minor, enhancing my understanding of hotel analytics and revenue optimization.

Following my internship, I joined the Red Carnation Hotel Collection's graduate program, where I received comprehensive training across various hotel departments. I completed the rooms division section at Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa and the food and beverage section at Oyster Box Hotel & Spa.

In August 2019, I seized the opportunity to join the management team of Evergreen Lifestyle Village, using my hospitality expertise to contribute to the community's success. Alongside my career, I also serve as the Vice Chairman of the Stenden South Africa Graduates Association and recently earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from North-West University Business School."