​​Newly elected Stellenbosch University (SU) Student Representative Council (SRC) chairperson, Carli van Wyk, says that everyone has a duty to lead and serve in communities whether it is positional or non-positional.

The Rawsonville-raised third-year LLB student is the youngest of three children. Carli describes herself as a passionate leader who believes in serving others and working together in order to bring about change.

“I feel honoured to be serving in the position as SRC chairperson, but I don't see the position as my entitlement to be a leader. I believe that South Africa and Stellenbosch are at a very interesting time in our history: a turning point not only for the campus but also for the SRC."

Carli says that there are a number of problems and challenges at the institution, but there is also an opportunity. “I dream of a Stellenbosch that represents all of South Africa, a campus that is known not by its controversial and problematic history but rather by a legacy characterised by courage, vision and perseverance."

She adds that she believes in a united SRC that serves the students rigorously and without compromise, be that at Tygerberg, the Military or the Stellenbosch campus.

“As chairperson, I will not walk but run with the vision of our team and University. I will stand firm in uniting our team by focusing on how our diversity can work for us and not against us. As a leader, I believe in the value of relationships and therefore, I welcome collaboration with students and structures such as the ABR, Society Council and Prim Committee. I will invest in more platforms for students' voices to be heard because in the end, we are part of something bigger than ourselves."

Carli says that all the stakeholders of the institution are custodians of the future Stellenbosch and, even more importantly, the country.

Carli further says that in 2018, young people are facing challenges such as social exclusion, food security and the stigmatisation of mental illnesses. “We recognise that these challenges are complex, some of them deeply embedded and difficult to overcome. As a united SRC, we will make it our mandate to ensure a collaborative, inclusive and responsive culture at Stellenbosch University."

“We envision a progressive and thriving community with student success at its core. In order to achieve our vision, we recognise our past and take responsibility for our future through upholding our values of integrity, humility and empathy."

Carli will lead students alongside her deputies Alex van Greuning, Melt Hugo, Lauren Stevenson, Lethiwe Mbatha, Leighton September, Marine Botham, Tariq Khan and Mthunzi Matshabane.