Thato Mathe is a second year Diploma in Public Relations student at Varsity College Sandton.
She is also a host and assistant for an events company called ‘Dinner in the Sky’ Events, and works with different companies that co-ordinate PR events. ‘My PR knowledge I have gained during lectures have come in very handy. I have learned to interact with people, thus exposing and representing the brand I work for. I find it really easy to formulate my own strategy for the day, and to familiarise myself with the company’s marketing strategy, project and process management’, says Thato.
Thato is self motivated, willing to learn, dedicated, adaptable and she believes that she can achieve everything she sets her mind to. She sets her own targets and strives to impress every time, and that applies to both her personal and her professional lives. On completion of her diploma, she wants to study towards study a Corporate Communications degree at Varsity College. Following this, she intends to work for some of South Africa's leading companies in this sector.
When Thato was asked which events she has worked on and what she learnt in the process, her answer was as follows: ‘The freshest to my memory is the Castle Milk Stout event, which was called “Pause in the Sky”. It was an exciting public relations approach from the company as it encouraged people to spare a moment for a sip of Castle milk stout and enjoy the journey, so they say ‘There Is A Journey In Every Moment’. I have learnt that it is very important to follow your process plan, but to have fun at the same time’. This student takes her studies very seriously, and is determined to pass well. She feels that it is very important to keep in mind why one is studying towards a particular qualification, because it is this that will help you maintain the drive towards what you are studying.
Her role model is her father. He always said do good and good will come to you and work hard to your utmost ability and someone will notice it. ‘I have watched him closely and I can see that he practices what he preaches’ says Thato.
Friday, 23 September 2011
One Young World Summit: from Zurich to beyond
Why do we care about people that are so far away from us, that we’ll never meet?” These were the opening words of Prince HKH Haakon of Norway, which drew me closer as he so passionately spoke about global dignity. That question is essentially the reason for the One Young World gathering- for individuals who care about what is happening around them. For me, it simply means giving people respect in the form of giving people my full attention when they speak to me and realising that a human soul is fragile but very powerful in its own right, and it is vital that people are well taken care of.
People and social media
I could not have been at the summit had it not been for people, and social media. This was a highlight for me as I could relate with the Egyptian revolution starter, Wael Ghonim ; “the magic is not in the tools, it’s in how we use the tools.” Wael Ghonim and Oscar Morales spoke about social media and the power of its influence in the world. My campaign platform for winning the Clearasil competition was Facebook, thus I could relate. But most importantly, we need to remember the people behind the social media activity, because the cause being driven lies in the people.
Fixing World Health
One of the projects I will be starting is inspired by Jamie Oliver, who spoke about world obesity. He spoke about a subject I know all too well; because I myself am testament to this, as well as being someone who has had a life long struggle with weight loss, which is a journey I conquer daily, and I did not disagree with a single thing he said on the platform. I love his zest for food and nutrition. Because of his talk, I want to implement a nutrition programme for enhancing academic performance for students at universities, especially at res and local schools, and nutrition education:
“You won’t die young if you don’t do your maths homework. If you don’t learn about food, you will.”- Jamie Oliver.
Women up
An aspiration of mine is also to instill and maintain confidence and self-empowerment in young women and to equip them to live up to their full potential and simultaneously building their leadership skills, particularly reiterated by a statement made by a OYW councillor, Fatima Bhutto; that whatever is given to a woman is multiplied. I am going to start a programme which does this, while participants of the programme give back to the community through volunteer work and fundraising for various organisations. My vision for women in the world, is for every single one to be the best that she can be, with what she has been given by God.
What does this mean for Africa?
This means that there are live change agents roaming the streets of Africa. I was not the only delegate from Africa. African presence was loud and proud at the summit, with the second biggest delegation following Europe! Because of the statistic, you can be positive about the future. It is not
only an honour to represent the continent, it is a responsibility we take to heart and my own personal agenda to do the best that I can in the world, for the greater good.
The One Young World Summit brought 1200 young people together representing 170 countries, each bring a superpower of some sort to the conference. We really all want to save the world! We all see that change is possible, but we know that we cannot do it alone and we know that it will not be easy, but the essential property in us is that we believe in our causes and they are not for selfish gain. I was privileged to have travelled over Africa to 170 countries in one city, for this experience and inspiration- but I promise you that inspiration is sitting right next to you- it is in all of us.
People and social media
I could not have been at the summit had it not been for people, and social media. This was a highlight for me as I could relate with the Egyptian revolution starter, Wael Ghonim ; “the magic is not in the tools, it’s in how we use the tools.” Wael Ghonim and Oscar Morales spoke about social media and the power of its influence in the world. My campaign platform for winning the Clearasil competition was Facebook, thus I could relate. But most importantly, we need to remember the people behind the social media activity, because the cause being driven lies in the people.
Fixing World Health
One of the projects I will be starting is inspired by Jamie Oliver, who spoke about world obesity. He spoke about a subject I know all too well; because I myself am testament to this, as well as being someone who has had a life long struggle with weight loss, which is a journey I conquer daily, and I did not disagree with a single thing he said on the platform. I love his zest for food and nutrition. Because of his talk, I want to implement a nutrition programme for enhancing academic performance for students at universities, especially at res and local schools, and nutrition education:
“You won’t die young if you don’t do your maths homework. If you don’t learn about food, you will.”- Jamie Oliver.
Women up
An aspiration of mine is also to instill and maintain confidence and self-empowerment in young women and to equip them to live up to their full potential and simultaneously building their leadership skills, particularly reiterated by a statement made by a OYW councillor, Fatima Bhutto; that whatever is given to a woman is multiplied. I am going to start a programme which does this, while participants of the programme give back to the community through volunteer work and fundraising for various organisations. My vision for women in the world, is for every single one to be the best that she can be, with what she has been given by God.
What does this mean for Africa?
This means that there are live change agents roaming the streets of Africa. I was not the only delegate from Africa. African presence was loud and proud at the summit, with the second biggest delegation following Europe! Because of the statistic, you can be positive about the future. It is not
only an honour to represent the continent, it is a responsibility we take to heart and my own personal agenda to do the best that I can in the world, for the greater good.
The One Young World Summit brought 1200 young people together representing 170 countries, each bring a superpower of some sort to the conference. We really all want to save the world! We all see that change is possible, but we know that we cannot do it alone and we know that it will not be easy, but the essential property in us is that we believe in our causes and they are not for selfish gain. I was privileged to have travelled over Africa to 170 countries in one city, for this experience and inspiration- but I promise you that inspiration is sitting right next to you- it is in all of us.
Wednesday, 07 September 2011
High tea for Reuven residents
Each year the senior residents of Reuven Home in Rossettenville look forward to a tea party hosted by the first year Public Relations students from Varsity College Sandton. This year, 26 August was chosen to commemorate the role of senior citizens in society at the Reuven Home and to honour the elderly for their contribution to the community.
With the assistance of various sponsors the students provided spot prizes and a hamper filled with goodies for each of the 100 attending residents, as well as in serving food for the day to each of them. Ballet and hip-hop dancing performances, karaoke and a magician kept the residents entertained as they enjoyed their tea and snacks.
In the process of showing appreciation for the senior citizens, the students were also able to entertain and lift the spirits of the elderly resident of the home.
“A core component of Varsity College’s philosophy is to encourage students to engage in good citizenship, positive community involvement and excellent workplace preparations. A perfect example of community involvement is the Tea Party for Reuven Old Age Home. The fact that the younger generation honours their elderly in this way, just reinforces the respect that they feel towards them", Vasanthee Govender, Student Relations Manager at Varsity College Sandton said of the event.
With the assistance of various sponsors the students provided spot prizes and a hamper filled with goodies for each of the 100 attending residents, as well as in serving food for the day to each of them. Ballet and hip-hop dancing performances, karaoke and a magician kept the residents entertained as they enjoyed their tea and snacks.
In the process of showing appreciation for the senior citizens, the students were also able to entertain and lift the spirits of the elderly resident of the home.
“A core component of Varsity College’s philosophy is to encourage students to engage in good citizenship, positive community involvement and excellent workplace preparations. A perfect example of community involvement is the Tea Party for Reuven Old Age Home. The fact that the younger generation honours their elderly in this way, just reinforces the respect that they feel towards them", Vasanthee Govender, Student Relations Manager at Varsity College Sandton said of the event.
Varsity College and CHOC National Golf Days – Durban North Campus
Support the Children’s Cancer Foundation of South Africa and enjoy a great game of golf.
Varsity College Durban North’s students are very excited about hosting the campus’ annual golf day – in aid of Children’s Cancer Foundation of South Africa (CHOC). The event takes place at Beachwood Country Club on 23 September; and is a culmination of teamwork between the sports management 2nd year students, the Student Liaison Body and the VC Cares group.
Holistic Development for students
“Students at Varsity College are encouraged, as part of Varsity College’s educational philosophy of developing students holistically, to maintain a healthy balance between their studies and sport, social, cultural and community engagement activities”, says Jeanie Budd, National Student Relations Manager of Varsity College.
Companies are invited to partner with Varsity College Durban North by sponsoring a tee or green, entering a four ball, donating prizes or making a general donation to CHOC.
Varsity College and CHOC – Keeping more than hope alive
Says Agie Govender, Divisional Manager CHOC KZN: “CHOC – KZN is very proud to be associated with Varsity College and their National Golf Day initiative. This initiative raises the profile of CHOC and creates awareness of a College that cares. All the money raised will be used for CHOC activities in the region which would include maintaining our CHOC Lodge and CHOC Houses. This will ensure that parents have a home away from home to be close to their children who are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and any other procedures.
The partnership we have with Varsity College is ongoing and not a once off. Their commitment to ‘KEEPING MORE THAN HOPE ALIVE” for children with cancer and related life threatening blood disorders is constant”.
Interested parties can contact Lauren Williams on the Durban North campus on 031 573 2038 or lwilliams@varsitycollege.co.za.
Varsity College Durban North’s students are very excited about hosting the campus’ annual golf day – in aid of Children’s Cancer Foundation of South Africa (CHOC). The event takes place at Beachwood Country Club on 23 September; and is a culmination of teamwork between the sports management 2nd year students, the Student Liaison Body and the VC Cares group.
Holistic Development for students
“Students at Varsity College are encouraged, as part of Varsity College’s educational philosophy of developing students holistically, to maintain a healthy balance between their studies and sport, social, cultural and community engagement activities”, says Jeanie Budd, National Student Relations Manager of Varsity College.
Companies are invited to partner with Varsity College Durban North by sponsoring a tee or green, entering a four ball, donating prizes or making a general donation to CHOC.
Varsity College and CHOC – Keeping more than hope alive
Says Agie Govender, Divisional Manager CHOC KZN: “CHOC – KZN is very proud to be associated with Varsity College and their National Golf Day initiative. This initiative raises the profile of CHOC and creates awareness of a College that cares. All the money raised will be used for CHOC activities in the region which would include maintaining our CHOC Lodge and CHOC Houses. This will ensure that parents have a home away from home to be close to their children who are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and any other procedures.
The partnership we have with Varsity College is ongoing and not a once off. Their commitment to ‘KEEPING MORE THAN HOPE ALIVE” for children with cancer and related life threatening blood disorders is constant”.
Interested parties can contact Lauren Williams on the Durban North campus on 031 573 2038 or lwilliams@varsitycollege.co.za.
Varsity College Sports Stars Shine
Varsity College Westville hosted the inter-campus sports day recently at Westville Old Boys Sports Club. The 3 Kwazulu-Natal campuses, Westville, Durban North and Pietermartizburg competed for the title of sports day champs. Hockey, Soccer, Volleyball, Netball, Touch Rugby and Tug of war were the platforms of contest. Many students made their way to the fields to show support for their campuses. With a very close spread of points Varsity College Durban North came out tops in the inter-campus sports day ,closely followed by Varsity College Westville and then Varsity College PMB.
Varsity College Sandton votes their girl to the top
Clearasil Awesome Face of the Day Varsity Challenge Winner Announced
Clearasil is proud to announce that outgoing, popular, confident Thato Choma from Varsity College Sandton is the overall winner of the Clearasil Awesome Face of the Day Varsity Challenge. After months of campaigning, Thato amassed the most votes and will soon be jetting off on an all-expenses-paid trip to Zurich to represent Clearasil and Varsity College at the One Young World Conference where she will be networking with the likes of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Bob Geldof and Wyclef Jean.
From 200 girls to 5 to one!
Two hundred remarkable young women were selected from five universities around the country to represent their institution in the Clearasil Varsity Challenge. The girls were provided with personalised business cards to assist them in their quest to get the most votes on Facebook.com/ClearasilSouthAfrica. One finalist (the girl with the most votes) from each of the five universities – Tshwane University of Technology, University of the Free State, University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University and Varsity College Sandton - made it to Phase 2 the Varsity Challenge.
Each entrant received a Clearasil product hamper and the Finalist from each university was able to donate R10 000.00 to a charity of the University’s choice.
The second stage of the Clearasil Awesome Face of the Day Varsity Challenge required the top 5 to compete against each other for the grand prize – a seat at the One Young World Summit. In a hotly contested final, Thato received 9745 votes over the period and walked away a worthy winner.
‘’My heart is filled with so much gratitude and excitement. It is such an honour to be representing Varsity College and Clearasil South Africa. I will only give of my best. Team Thato to Zurich and beyond,’’ said Thato on her win.
Spokesperson for Clearasil, Unathi Mzendana said: “The Varsity Campaign has been successful beyond our expectations and what has made it even better is the calibre of the overall winner, Thato, from Varsity College Sandton.”
From the time the application launched, scores of people have visited the Clearasil Facebook page and voted for their favourite finalist.
One Young World Conference
One Young World is a global forum for young people of leadership caliber. Its purpose is to connect and bring together the youngest and brightest and to ensure that their concerns, opinions and solutions are heard and taken into account by those in power whether in government, business or any other sector. Since the first summit in London in 2010, 823 under-25s from 114 countries have been making real on-the-ground impacts in global business, media, environment, interfaith dialogue, global health, and political leadership development, reducing poverty in the most innovative ways, making our future brighter.
In this light, One Young World, which is founded by David Jones, Global CEO of Havas Worldwide and Kate Robertson, UK Group Chairman of Euro RSCG, was most recently honoured at the Clinton Global Initiative where Bill Clinton thanked David Jones for creating One Young World, recognising it as an invaluable vehicle in the global business call-to-action on major development issues.
At the 2011 Summit Thato will be raising issues important to her. There is no doubt that Thato will fly the flag high for Varsity College, South Africa and Clearasil.
Clearasil is proud to announce that outgoing, popular, confident Thato Choma from Varsity College Sandton is the overall winner of the Clearasil Awesome Face of the Day Varsity Challenge. After months of campaigning, Thato amassed the most votes and will soon be jetting off on an all-expenses-paid trip to Zurich to represent Clearasil and Varsity College at the One Young World Conference where she will be networking with the likes of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Bob Geldof and Wyclef Jean.
From 200 girls to 5 to one!
Two hundred remarkable young women were selected from five universities around the country to represent their institution in the Clearasil Varsity Challenge. The girls were provided with personalised business cards to assist them in their quest to get the most votes on Facebook.com/ClearasilSouthAfrica. One finalist (the girl with the most votes) from each of the five universities – Tshwane University of Technology, University of the Free State, University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University and Varsity College Sandton - made it to Phase 2 the Varsity Challenge.
Each entrant received a Clearasil product hamper and the Finalist from each university was able to donate R10 000.00 to a charity of the University’s choice.
The second stage of the Clearasil Awesome Face of the Day Varsity Challenge required the top 5 to compete against each other for the grand prize – a seat at the One Young World Summit. In a hotly contested final, Thato received 9745 votes over the period and walked away a worthy winner.
‘’My heart is filled with so much gratitude and excitement. It is such an honour to be representing Varsity College and Clearasil South Africa. I will only give of my best. Team Thato to Zurich and beyond,’’ said Thato on her win.
Spokesperson for Clearasil, Unathi Mzendana said: “The Varsity Campaign has been successful beyond our expectations and what has made it even better is the calibre of the overall winner, Thato, from Varsity College Sandton.”
From the time the application launched, scores of people have visited the Clearasil Facebook page and voted for their favourite finalist.
One Young World Conference
One Young World is a global forum for young people of leadership caliber. Its purpose is to connect and bring together the youngest and brightest and to ensure that their concerns, opinions and solutions are heard and taken into account by those in power whether in government, business or any other sector. Since the first summit in London in 2010, 823 under-25s from 114 countries have been making real on-the-ground impacts in global business, media, environment, interfaith dialogue, global health, and political leadership development, reducing poverty in the most innovative ways, making our future brighter.
In this light, One Young World, which is founded by David Jones, Global CEO of Havas Worldwide and Kate Robertson, UK Group Chairman of Euro RSCG, was most recently honoured at the Clinton Global Initiative where Bill Clinton thanked David Jones for creating One Young World, recognising it as an invaluable vehicle in the global business call-to-action on major development issues.
At the 2011 Summit Thato will be raising issues important to her. There is no doubt that Thato will fly the flag high for Varsity College, South Africa and Clearasil.
Varsity College Pietermaritzburg School’s Quiz won by King Edward High
The 2011 Varsity College Pietermaritzburg School’s Quiz (now in its eighth year) was held at the Royal Agricultural Showgrounds on 27 August. The quiz is a collaboration between Varsity College, The Natal Witness and the South African Institute for International Affairs (SAIIA).
The event buzzed with 46 teams, from 28 schools taking part. Students were taken through their paces with questions taken from The Natal Witness daily editions from 1 – 19 August. The questions all related to the categories of International Politics and General, International Entertainment, Lifestyle and Sport, South African Politics and General, South African Entertainment, Lifestyle and Sport, Environmental Affairs, KZN Local and General.
A high standard was maintained by all and the school students showed just how seriously they take the quiz and staying informed and abreast of local and international affairs.
Carter High has dominated this quiz for the last few years, but were pipped to first and second place by King Edward High from Matatiele. Carter High came in third this year, and congratulations were extended to the winners and all who took part.
The event buzzed with 46 teams, from 28 schools taking part. Students were taken through their paces with questions taken from The Natal Witness daily editions from 1 – 19 August. The questions all related to the categories of International Politics and General, International Entertainment, Lifestyle and Sport, South African Politics and General, South African Entertainment, Lifestyle and Sport, Environmental Affairs, KZN Local and General.
A high standard was maintained by all and the school students showed just how seriously they take the quiz and staying informed and abreast of local and international affairs.
Carter High has dominated this quiz for the last few years, but were pipped to first and second place by King Edward High from Matatiele. Carter High came in third this year, and congratulations were extended to the winners and all who took part.
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