By Thuso Mokwa

Kader Asmal fellows, representing all four cohorts, gathered on November 11th 2017 to establish the Irish Alumni South Africa. The fellows were joined by representatives of Canon Collins, the South Africa Washington International Programme, and the Embassy of Ireland, including Ambassador Liam MacGabhann.

The envisioned aim of the alumni association is to encompass all South Africans who have studied in Ireland with the aim to develop strategic, purposeful networks, and to strengthen ties between Ireland and South Africa.

The executive committee of the soon to be formalised alumni chapter were also elected:

Chairperson:  Rhulani Lehloka
Vice-Chair:    Sylvia Gertze
Treasurer:      Thuso Mokwa
Secretary:       Justine van Rooyen

35 Kader Asmal fellows have studied in Ireland since 2013, and 13 of these were present on this momentous occasion. For most of those present, it was the first opportunity to meet fellows from other years.

Laughter, experiences and tales of Irish adventures were shared, and everyone had the opportunity to share their experiences since their return to South Africa.

The gathering was a great opportunity not only to discuss strategic plans for the alumni association, but also to build camaraderie and foster relationships. Expect great things to come from the Irish Alumni South Africa.

If you are interested in getting involved, contact alumni@icosirl.ie.