Adriaan Louw has always enjoyed being involved in the activities of Stellenbosch University (SU), the Faculty of Law in particular. This Matie has been a regular at the virtual wine-tasting and networking events in Europe and has provided valuable input as a volunteer.
“I started becoming actively involved during my first year and continue doing so today. Other than being involved in whatever is organised for the alumni in Germany, I participate in various smaller initiatives run by my law firm and friends," he says.
Adriaan, an alumnus of SU's Faculty of Law, divides his time between his home in Frankfurt and his office in Munich. When he is not working or fighting German bureaucracy, he travels, samples new wines with friends, plays the piano, and tries to master Greek.
“I don't necessarily see myself as a volunteer in the full altruistic sense of the word, but I've always enjoyed being involved."
Adriaan says that he finds that people are generally open to giving of their time and talent for a cause that they not only believe in, but are passionate about. “Most of us believe, for example, in alleviating poverty or world hunger, but it takes more than a belief to push us into action. The concept of a university, where people learn, grow and make lifetime memories, is something that gets me very excited, which is why I'm involved in the alumni activities in Germany. We need to get people excited to get them involved."
He says some of his best memories were formed within the boundaries of Stellenbosch and the walls of the Ou Hoofgebou. "Apart from the people I've met, the adventures I've embarked on, the summer school and my exchange semester in Germany (which probably set up my current career), some crazier things also happened. I remember passing the Stellenbosch town hall one evening where the university was hosting an event for the international students. I was not invited and completely underdressed, but nature was calling, so I made my way into the venue, only to be lured to the bar by the 'R20 for two double G&Ts' special. A few hours later, I was on the stage, giving a welcoming speech and opening the dance floor!"
