University of Pretoria - TuksAlumni

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP🎧: University of Pretoria (UP) graduates, staff members, and friends of UP lead society locally, across Africa, and globally. Listen to the LeadUP Podcast today, and gain access to a treasure trove of lessons from some of the leading UP family members who’ve shared their stories and top tips for personal and career growth.

Listen now to hear from UP graduates and alumni associates including renowned broadcaster Clement Manyathela, Olympic swimming champion Tatjana Smith, UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen, and Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida.

To listen, go to www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts, find LeadUP Podcast in your favourite podcast app, or search for LeadUP Podcast on YouTube.

Which topic would you most like to hear more about from UP alumni and staff members?

🟦Leadership and management tips

🟦Trends in higher education

🟦Personal finance and money management

🟦General tips on career growth

Share your thoughts on your favourite LeadUP Podcast episode so far, along with any suggestions or guest ideas, in the comments!

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP: On the latest episode of the LeadUP Podcast, UP’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Francis Petersen, shares his insights into how his leadership experience guides him in leading one of Africa’s top universities.

Don’t miss this insightful discussion with a leader who is shaping the future of higher education.

Get homegrown success tips from some of the University of Pretoria’s most successful alumni: Go to www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts, find LeadUP Podcast in your favourite podcast app, or search for LeadUP Podcast on YouTube.

LEADERSHIP IN FOCUS: On the new episode of the LeadUP Podcast, Prof Francis Petersen, UP’s new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, shares his approach to leadership and innovation in higher education.

Listen now to hear more about Prof Petersen’s leadership journey, and his strategies for driving transformation and elevating UP to new heights. Don’t miss this insightful discussion with a leader who is redefining the path forward for higher education.

Get homegrown success tips from some of the University of Pretoria’s most successful alumni: Go to www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts, find LeadUP Podcast in your favourite podcast app, or search for LeadUP Podcast on YouTube.

Save the date – Meet UP's new Vice-Chancellor in Cape Town! 📅

Calling all UP alumni and friends in Cape Town! We're excited for you to meet our new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Francis Petersen. Please join us for an exclusive Alumni & Friends Cocktail Event in Cape Town (during the same week as the Mining Indaba!).

This is a rare opportunity to meet Prof Petersen, hear about UP’s innovative future and connect with like-minded professionals.

Only 100 spots are available! Click on the link to RSVP: https://up.evlink9.net/public/forms/h/fcJmmTSHGM8nfm7x/NmM2Zjg0MzFjYzhiMjQ1MDY1MzZiNDRkODQ0MjFjM2RiZjJiOTIzOQ==

We look forward to seeing you soon!

It’s that time of the year again!🎄✨ Send your holiday wish list today – and don’t forget to add some limited-edition Tuks Alumni gear! Even better, you can purchase your Tuks Alumni merchandise in real-time at the upcoming graduation ceremonies at the Aula! 🎓

Whether it’s for friends, family, or a little something for yourself, these exclusive items are sure to spread joy!

Don’t walk – RUN, before they’re gone! 🏃‍♂️💨

Shop now: https://ow.ly/aoqX50UiNq7

SALE: Searching for the perfect gift this holiday season? 🎁✨ Look no further!

Our limited-edition alumni merchandise is ideal for showing off your style.

Don’t miss out – get yours before they’re gone! 🏃‍♂️💨

👉 Shop here: https://upshop.up.ac.za/collections/tuks-alumni-range

FOSTERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP: As Director of Entrepreneurship at Universities South Africa (USAf), University of Pretoria alumnus Dr Edwell Gumbo is responsible for entrepreneurship development initiatives across all 26 public universities in South Africa. He says his UP MPhil and PhD in Entrepreneurship have enabled him to contribute to creating a more resilient and prosperous society. “This motivation is rooted in my own experiences and the impact that mentorship and education have had on my journey.” Read more: https://ow.ly/ilMX50UfxVZ

The season of giving is officially here! As you for the holidays, don’t forget to treat yourself.🎄✨

Our exclusive merchandise is perfect for celebrating your connection to UP and spreading joy this festive season.

Check out the collection and shop now: https://ow.ly/cHeL50U9cXZ

: Congratulations to UP alumna Tshiamo Githinji, the newly crowned First Princess of Mrs South Africa 2025. “I feel deeply honoured and incredibly grateful for this achievement,” she says. “Being named Mrs South Africa First Princess is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the support and love I’ve received throughout this journey. It fills me with pride to represent the values of this platform, and it inspires me to continue using my voice to uplift others and make a meaningful impact.” The beauty pageant took place recently in Kempton Park, Gauteng. Githinji graduated from UP with Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) in 2017 and an honours degree in the same field in 2021.

A NEW CHAPTER: On the next episode of the LeadUP Podcast, out Tuesday 26 November, Professor Francis Petersen, UP’s new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, shares his vision for the university and the future of higher education.

With a career marked by stability, transformation and innovation, Prof Petersen reflects on the lessons he’s learned, his leadership philosophies, and his strategies for taking UP to greater heights.

In this engaging discussion with host Lennox Wasara, he talks about embracing change, leveraging micro-credentialing, and building meaningful partnerships to secure UP’s place as a top university in Africa. Be sure to listen in for a thought-provoking conversation with a leader at the forefront of educational excellence.

Until the new episode arrives, catch up on a treasure trove of previous personal growth lessons from UP alumni by listening now at https://www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts, or find the LeadUP Podcast on YouTube or via your favourite podcast app.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION: UP alumnus Prof Sylvester Mpandeli was recently recognised with the World Heritage Irrigation Structures Award for his work on the Douglas Weir irrigation system in the Northern Cape. “This award is not about me; it’s about putting South Africa out there,” he says. Read more: https://ow.ly/nycH50U9gNk

ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS: Having aced their master’s degrees and on their way to obtaining PhDs, married couple Rambiritch-Gagiano and Marc Gagiano couldn’t be happier with the calibre of education at UP. “We are fascinated with how UP continues to adapt, transform and foster collaboration between fields to improve the outcomes of South Africa,” said Rashmi. Read more: https://ow.ly/2GFR50U5Zup

LEARN FROM UP ALUMNI🎧: University of Pretoria (UP) graduates lead society locally, across Africa, and globally. Listen to the LeadUP Podcast today to gain access to a treasure trove of lessons from leading UP alumni who share their stories and tips for personal and business growth.

Listen now to hear from UP graduates including broadcaster Carmen Reddy; PwC Africa Territory Senior Partner Dion Shango; Olympic swimming champion Tatjana Smith; and journalist Clement Manyathela.

To listen, go to www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts, find LeadUP Podcast in your favourite podcast app, or search for LeadUP Podcast on YouTube.

International beverage company Keurig Dr Pepper has appointed UP alumnus Rolf von Ascheraden as the new Vice-President responsible for Research and Development. “I am super excited and energised to help drive the KDP beverage innovation, productivity and sustainability growth agenda forward,” he said. Read more: https://ow.ly/piIV50U4j0h

Standing tall at UP! Our campus is a place of growth, discovery, and endless possibilities.