Published in May to commemorate Workers' Day, our annual #dayinthelife series spotlights our staff at Stellenbosch University (SU). This year, we highlight professional administrative support services staff who make a tangible difference in students' lives.
Viwe Benxa connects students with opportunities through alumni networks, workshops and 'giving campaigns' that change lives. As alumni participation coordinator, he helps foster a culture of generosity to ensure that students are supported, empowered and prepared for life beyond university. Benxa tells us more about his work at the University.
What does your role at SU entail?
I am Development and Alumni Relations' alumni participation coordinator, although I always joke that my job does not really entail working directly with alumni that much. Rather, my role involves daily interaction with the student body to nurture the culture of giving among alumni. When I do connect directly with alumni, it is to create spaces for them to interact with our students, whether through offering career advice, networking or philanthropy.
What does a typical day at work look like?
Every day is different. I spend many days managing and coordinating events for students and alumni, or participating in workshops and training with student leaders on how to effectively engage alumni and harness the power of giving. I would typically coordinate student-related activities such as Pre-Grad Day and the #GivingMaties campaign – all aimed at helping students develop professionally and personally.
How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this job?
I think my background in social work enables me to create platforms and spaces where students, staff and alumni can give back in a dignified and exciting way. My marketing degree has equipped me with the project management and communication skills to coordinate and facilitate initiatives that are empowering to both our student body and alumni.
What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?
I enjoy the sense of purpose I feel with each initiative, campaign and interaction. It is an incredible feeling when students come up to me and say “Your workshop on Pre-Grad Day helped me land my first job" or “I was able to ace my assessments because I didn't have to worry about where I would get my next meal" or “I got my driving licence because of SU's fundraising initiatives".
Tell us something exciting about yourself that few people would expect.
I was a Scout growing up. In Scouts, you are taught several things that help you develop as a person. One lesson that has stuck with me is a philosophy of the Scouts founder, namely “Try to leave the world a bit better than you found it". My job revolves around advancing and developing students, both as people and as future professionals, and I try to approach each task with that philosophy in mind.
PHOTO and VIDEO: Ubaid Abrahams
