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.
Geraldine Minnaar leads the Residence Services team, ensuring that thousands of students enjoy safe, clean and welcoming living spaces. Read below about her dedicated work to keep our residences running smoothly.
What does your role at SU entail?
I head SUNCOM's Residence Services Department, which ensures the efficient functioning of all our university's residences. Currently, we accommodate 8 100 students, and our goal is to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible in our spaces, as it ultimately is their home away from home. We also provide for commuter students in our hubs, which are fully equipped with study, recreational and outdoor areas.
My amazing team is spread across the Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses, and consists of five cluster residence services coordinators, 17 residence coordinators, four residence assistants and an administrator, all of whom I can rely on to keep the Residence Services ship sailing.
Our work is to ensure that high cleaning standards are maintained in our residences, that building maintenance is executed timeously, and that our students' living spaces are safe and remain top-class. I also oversee tender processes, assist with enquiries from parents, and continuously benchmark to ensure that our facilities remain competitive with those of other universities and the broader market.
What does a typical day at work look like?
It's super-hectic! We collaborate with various internal and external stakeholders as well as service providers, so things can change at a drop of a hat. Anything can pop up that needs to be dealt with immediately, so critical thinking, prioritisation, resilience, mindful thinking and proactivity are all essential. Despite the daily rush, I must admit that not a day goes by without also having a bit of humour in between all my tasks. Whether it's during phone calls, in meetings, while receiving visitors or interacting with colleagues, I always have time for a chuckle or two.
How did your education or past experience prepare you for this job?
I took the 'scenic route' to end up where I am today. I initially enrolled to study Social Work, but changed my field of study, graduating with a National Diploma in Hospitality and Catering Services. I held various roles in the industry, from an assistant catering manager for an external company at SU's Simonsberg residence, to catering/project manager.
In 2012, I officially joined the University's Residence Services team at Tygerberg campus as a residence services coordinator. A year later, I transferred to Stellenbosch campus and became the residence services coordinator at Metanoia residence. This position gave me first-hand insight into what students' needs are in terms of living in residence.
In 2020, I took up my current role. Starting in a new position during the pandemic while also studying part time (BCom Business Management) was a challenge. At the time, I placed my BCom on hold, but have since resumed my studies. I am grateful for the path that led me to where I am today. I have developed a love of working with students, which adds to my joy.
What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?
I enjoy interacting with various stakeholders who come together with one shared goal in mind – to make and keep our students happy.
For example, Residence Services recently collaborated with Factory 209 to develop a communication platform with various functionalities for residence students, such as to report maintenance issues. We've been piloting the platform at two residences since the January intake, and I am excited to see how it grows and develops.
Residence Services is not only a department, but a little family that has grown together over the years. I enjoy guiding the team to excellence and empowering them to do their job to the best of their ability.
Moreover, to be part of the bigger SUNCOM environment, where I am included in decision-making and where my input is valued, plays an integral role in keeping me motivated.
I also enjoy the daily interactions with colleagues and students.
Tell us something exciting about yourself that few people would expect.
I am a plant fanatic! My favourite plant type is succulents. If anyone is looking for me at home, they would most likely find me in my garden, hands dirty, digging in the soil.
For me, gardening is therapeutic, but also rewarding, as you get to see the products of your labour. My pawpaw tree is currently bearing beautiful fruit, just waiting to turn yellow. My biggest reward is to see the tiny seed that I have nourished take shape and grow into a plant that showers me with their gifts. Another hobby is rock art. I paint rocks in my garden – it helps me relax, while also bringing character to the space.
PHOTO & VIDEO: Stefan Els
