Author: tschoeman

After nearly four decades of service, the Bellville Park Campus Library (USBL) will officially close its doors as a branch library at the end of 2024. This decision, made by Library Management in collaboration with the Bellville Park Campus (BPC) Committee, marks the end of an era and opens a new chapter for library services at the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) and School of Public Leadership (SPL).

USBL’s journey began in 1986, when the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) relocated to BPC. Initially known as USBI, the library started with a modest collection of printed materials and a dedicated team of two staff members. Through the years, the small “satellite” library became a proper branch library, moving from the second floor of the main SBS building to a new facility on the ground level in 2002, employing five staff members.

Henriëtte Swart:  Director Branch Libraries who joined USBL in 1987, recalls the library’s evolution fondly:

“It was a highlight when we opened the new USBL facility in 2002. The library became a hub for the full-time MBA students and the broader Bellville Park Campus community. Over the years, we received countless expressions of appreciation from students and faculty, and USBL was often highlighted in accreditation reports as a key contributor to academic success.”

In 2018, USBL was upgraded as part of the BPC renewal project. Work on the facility included new signage, a redesigned reception/information desk, two offices for the faculty librarians and a new staff room as well as mobile bookshelves to allow flexible use of the available space and comfortable seating options and study pods facilitate research, study and collaboration.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic the physical library saw a significant decline in foot traffic. Before COVID, however, library services had become increasingly virtual. With this mind, discussions about the library’s future had to be made. In October 2023, Library Management presented three scenarios to USBL management: maintaining the status quo (2023-2024 ), closing USBL (by the end of or after 2024), or continuation of a library and information service on BPC (after 2024). Following extensive consultation and analysis, the decision was made to close the physical library by the end of 2024 while maintaining a virtual professional library service.

 Looking Ahead

Although the physical library will close, the academic community of Bellville Park Campus will continue to receive comprehensive library support. From January 2025, a small collection of 400 frequently used physical books will be retained on campus for borrowing. Additionally, SBS staff will assist with operational tasks such as document delivery, circulation, and interbranch requests.

More importantly, the virtual library service will remain robust, ensuring seamless access to electronic resources, including databases, e-books, and e-journals. Faculty Librarian for Economic and Management Sciences, Judy Williams, based in the SU Library, will continue to provide virtual research support, training, and consultations, occasionally visiting the campus as needed.

Judy Williams highlights the enduring connection between the library and the campus community:

“The USBL staff were an integral part of the Bellville Park Campus community, attending academic meetings and social events. We hope to maintain this special relationship, even if it’s remote.”

Final thoughts

As USBL prepares to close its doors, it leaves behind a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community. From its early days as a small library with limited resources to its role as a vital academic support system, USBL has been a cornerstone of the Bellville Park Campus for nearly four decades.

While the physical space will no longer be available, the library’s commitment to supporting the academic and research needs of the campus remains unwavering. This transition represents not an end, but a transformation—one that embraces new ways of delivering knowledge and fostering academic success.

For those who have walked its aisles, studied in its quiet corners, or benefited from its resources, USBL will always hold a special place in their hearts.

Karel van der Molen, a long-time user of USBL, reflects: “USBL was more than just a library; it was a place for intellectual growth and personal connections. The staff’s dedication and the library’s human touch made it a cornerstone of the academic experience at Bellville Park Campus.”

The Library and Information Service extends its gratitude to everyone who participated in the recent Space Use Patterns and Diversity survey, which closed on 4 October 2024. With 886 responses—71% from undergraduate students—the survey provided valuable insights into library use patterns, preferred spaces and times and perceptions of diversity and inclusivity within the library. This feedback will play a crucial role in guiding future improvements to library spaces, hours and services.

Approximately 27% of respondents reported visiting the library daily, primarily to study. Over 69% of participants expressed satisfaction with the current physical library spaces and more than 79% felt that the library is inclusive and accommodating of individuals from diverse backgrounds. The Library team is now analysing nearly 3 000 valuable comments provided by survey participants.

To thank participants, the Library offered the chance to win one of three vouchers worth R1,500 each for use at a computer technology store. Congratulations to the lucky draw winners: Miss Zenande Siqwana, Ms Owam Nqamra, and Miss Anele Taumbe! At a prize-giving  on 30 October at Stellenbosch University Library, Misses Siqwana and Taumbe received their vouchers, while Ms Nqamra was presented with hers at the Medicine and Health Sciences Library.

Meet the Winners

Miss Zenande Siqwana, a second-year BA Humanities student from the Free State, shared her appreciation for the SU Library, where she studies daily with a clear focus on her dream of becoming a clinical psychologist. A passionate reader, she values the library’s supportive environment for both her academic and personal growth.

Miss Anele Taumbe, a first-year AgriSciences student from Umlazi, Durban, is aiming for a career in oenology and viticulture. For her, the SU Library is not only a quiet study spot but also a place to foster new friendships. Her recent library read inspired her by deepening her knowledge of food pairing with wines—an essential skill for her future career. In her spare time, she enjoys creative writing as a way to unwind.

Ms Owam Nqamra, a first-year Nursing student, received her voucher at the Medicine and Health Sciences Library on 8 November.

The Library appreciates all who participated in the survey and contributed to making the library a better place for everyone. For those who missed out this time, stay tuned for more opportunities to share feedback as we continue our commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for all.

 

On 24 October 2024, Stellenbosch University (SU) Library celebrated International Open Access Week with a hybrid event focusing on the theme “Community Over Commercialisation.” Held in the SU Library Auditorium and streamed online, the event featured a panel discussion facilitated by the SU Library’s Director of Research Services, Dr. Siviwe Bangani. The panel included insights from influential voices in Open Science, both locally and internationally.

On SU’s Open Access Commitment

Opening the Discussion, Ms Ellen R. Tise, Senior Director: Library and Information Services, highlighted the university’s longstanding commitment to Open Access, from signing the Berlin Declaration in 2010, hosting Africa’s first Berlin Open Access Conference in 2012, and the Open Repositories conference in 2023. She spoke about the financial challenges, such as high subscription fees and fluctuations in local currency, that limit access for South African institutions. Tise also underscored the inequalities caused by “double dipping,” where publicly funded research becomes costly for the researchers themselves. She stressed that Open Access is essential for ensuring that African scholarship reaches a global audience.

Connecting Scholarship with Society
Prof. Marena Manley from SU’s Food Science department discussed how Open Access extends research impact beyond academia to benefit society. “It’s not just for other researchers; Open Access reaches the public,” she noted. Prof. Manley also emphasised quality control in Open Access publications, advocating for “open reviews” that involve public engagement to ensure research remains relevant and accessible. She highlighted the value of peer review and community feedback in maintaining high standards, comparable to those of traditional journals.

Reclaiming Scholarship: Challenging the Commercialisation of Knowledge
Dr. Reggie Raju,  Director: Research & Learning, University of Cape Town (UCT), spoke on the dominance of commercial publishers, arguing that scholarship should be a public good rather than a profit-driven commodity. He referenced initiatives like Diamond Open Access (DOA) as viable paths for reclaiming academic publishing from commercial interests. DOA is an open access publishing model where research is made freely available to readers and authors pay no Article Processing Charges (APCs) to publish. This model is often supported by institutions (including through Institutional repositories) or sponsors. DOA promotes equitable access to knowledge by removing financial barriers for both authors and readers. Dr. Raju also mentioned a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. against major publishers for allegedly blocking Open Access alternatives, which he sees as a critical step in restoring accessibility.

Furthermore, Raju was asked about the challenges unique to Global South researchers, who often feel pressured to align with Global North priorities. He described how “research pilgrimage” affects local relevance and noted the prohibitive costs of APCs for many South African researchers. He encouraged collaborations that would enable Global South academics to publish without high costs.

Policy and Inclusivity
In response to a question on policy’s role in mitigating commercial influence, Jeroen Sondervan, Programme Leader Open Scholarly Communication, Open Science NL at the Dutch Research Council (NWO) highlighted transformative agreements and policy reforms as essential. He advocated for Diamond Open Access to promote inclusive publishing, suggesting that funding for Open Access infrastructure could reduce reliance on traditional  metrics such as citations and h-index. To this, Dr. Raju added that policy change should include revisiting institutional reward systems to recognise Open Access contributions.

From Local to Global Impact: Open Access and the SDGs
Reflecting on Open Access’s broader role, Ms Tise linked it to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting its importance in education, health, poverty alleviation, and climate change. She noted how Open Access enabled rapid dissemination of COVID-19 research, emphasising that unrestricted access to information empowers communities to address societal challenges. However, she cautioned against the trend of rising publisher fees, which threaten accessibility.

Tise pointed out the need for ongoing education about Open Access models, which are constantly evolving. While libraries provide updates, she acknowledged that many researchers still struggle to navigate the options. She urged for simpler, more standardised Open Access agreements and encouraged researchers to look beyond traditional, high-prestige journals, noting initiatives like Diamond Open Access that promote free-to-publish and free-to-read models.

A Call to Action
The panel concluded with a shared commitment to foster Open Access policies that prioritise equity and community impact. As SU continues its advocacy, the event highlighted the transformative potential of Open Access to make research more inclusive, accessible, and beneficial for society.

 

Theresa Schoeman

On 1 October 2024, Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service hosted a panel discussion titled “Democracy through the Lens of Primary Documents at Special Collections” as part of the Woordfees programme. Held in the Library Auditorium, this event was also part of the Library’s 14th Manuscripts Centre Lecture, featured in the Woordfees “Discourse Talks” series. The discussion, which ran from 12:00 to 13:00, brought together a diverse group of panellists to reflect on the importance of primary resources in researching and contextualizing South Africa’s political history. The focus was on collections related to South Africa’s journey to democracy from the 1980s onward, highlighting how these materials continue to inspire new research and provide deeper insights into the country’s political transformation.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Ellen Tise, Senior Director: Stellenbosch University Library and Information Services, emphasised the critical role that primary sources play in preserving the history of democracy in South Africa. She explained how the Manuscripts Section, established in 1969, initially focused on Afrikaans literature but has since expanded to over 480 manuscript collections, now covering subjects such as South African artists, press figures, and political history. This reflects the Library’s ongoing commitment to diversifying its collections and providing a comprehensive view of South Africa’s history.

Ms. Mimi Seyffert-Wirth, Director: Scholarly Communication and Marketing, followed with an overview of the South African political history collections housed in Special Collections, underscoring their importance in understanding the nation’s complex past. She highlighted key materials that document significant political moments leading to democracy.

In celebration of 30 years of democracy, the SU Library also presented an exhibition titled “1994–2024: Democracy in South Africa – A History Told by Unique Library Collections,” on display near the Learning Commons. The exhibition showcases rare and historically significant items from Special Collections, including:

• A handwritten excerpt from “A Prayer for the ANC” by Beyers Naudé (1994)
• A letter from Nelson Mandela discussing the renegotiation of South Africa’s foreign debt in the 1980s, which contributed to his eventual release
• Documents from the Frederik van Zyl Slabbert collection, including his resignation from Parliament and his views on apartheid reform
• Materials from the IDASA collection focused on voter education efforts before the 1994 elections

The panel discussion was led by Dr. Marietjie Oelofsen, who had given the students an assignment to write articles based on the IDASA archive material they had used. These articles will be published in a magazine that the Honours class is compiling themselves. At the event, Dr. Oelofsen invited the students to share their experiences working with the primary sources. Both Sherie Vollenhoven and Nkululeko Ndlovu, BA Honours journalism students, mentioned that they enjoyed engaging with the physical materials, particularly newspapers and magazines. They highlighted how these resources uncovered narratives about South Africa’s political journey to democracy from 1980 onward.

Key questions posed to the panel included:

• What resources were particularly useful in your studies and publications, and how do they place past events in context?
• Which materials surprised or inspired you during your research?

Each panellist offered personal reflections on the unexpected discoveries they made through primary resources, which deepened their understanding of South Africa’s political and social development.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, during which the audience engaged the panellists with insightful questions. Afterward, Marieta Buys, Head: Special Collections, invited attendees to view the exhibition featuring recently acquired collections that offer deeper insights into South Africa’s democratic journey.

The Manuscript Lecture Series, which began in 2009, continues to promote the Library’s rich collections and encourages both public and scholarly engagement with significant historical materials. This year’s event celebrated not only the Library’s role in preserving South Africa’s history but also the enduring research value of its manuscript collections.

 

Theresa Schoeman

As I stood before the display cabinets in Special Collections, my eyes were drawn to a vibrant selection of books that seemed to whisper stories from the past. Each title represented a different piece of the intricate puzzle that makes up our national heritage – capturing the essence of cultures across Africa and beyond.

Heritage Month offers South Africans a moment to reflect on and celebrate the cultural diversity that defines our nation. It is a time to honour the histories, traditions, and contributions of the various communities that have shaped the country’s identity.

In celebration of this important month, Pakama Ncume, Junior Librarian in Special Collections, curated a captivating display of books from the Africana Collection. These books were thoughtfully selected to highlight a range of cultures, including African, Indian, and Coloured communities.

According to Pakama, the selection was made with the intent to offer a glimpse into the wealth of cultural knowledge contained within the collection. “The idea was to provide a teaser—something that would spark interest and encourage people to learn more about the different cultures that form the fabric of our nation,” she said.

Below are some of the titles and authors featured in the display, each one offering a unique perspective on the rich and diverse heritage of South Africa.

List of exhibited books – Heritage month

1. African Elegance by Alice Mertens and Joan A. Broster.
2. AmaNdebele by Peter Magubane and Sandra Klopper.
3. Coloured: How Classification Became Culture by Tessa Dooms and Lynsey Ebony Chutel.
4. Cultures of South Africa: A Celebration by Peter Joyce, Roger De la Harpe and Pat De la Harpe.
5. Ditema: Some Decorated Sotho Buildings by Pieter Jolly.
6. Many Lives:150 Years of Being Indian in South Africa by Goolam H. Vahed, Ashwin Desai and Thembisa Waetjen.
7. Vanishing Cultures of South Africa: Changing Customs in a Changing World by Peter Magubane.
8. The Zulu: Traditional Customs and Culture by John Hone, Jeannie Mather, Karen Fair and Andrea Florens.

In addition to the books on display, Special Collections also houses a rich collection of manuscripts and rare books that explore the diverse heritage of South Africa. Here are a few noteworthy examples from these collections:

Maguire San Ethnobotanical Collection

https://library.sun.ac.za/en-za/announcements/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=203

This is a collection of data collected by Mr Brian Maguire and his wife, Dr Judy Maguire between 1954 and 1975 in close collaboration San communities (!Kung, Haillom, lXoo, and Naro) in the Kalahari. It is a digital collection and consist of manuscripts; typescripts; sketches; diagrams;  photographic prints; black and white negatives; colour slides; field notebooks and plant collection registers.  The information is available for research purposes on the Library’s Digital Heritage Repository, SUNDigital Collections at https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/15524.

 

H.J. Bahr Collection

https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/15088

The H.J. Bahr collection consists of documents regarding mission work in Southern Africa of the Berlin Mission Society, collected by Herbert Julius Bahr. The collection contains correspondence with theologians and scientists; illustrations of Bushman paintings in the Drakensberg; poems and water-colours by Bahr.

 

Botanical Illustrations of the Cape

Rudolf Marloth Collection

https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/14646

The collection consists of correspondence; lists of publications; clippings; photos; sketches; personalia and the original botanical illustrations prepared for printing between 1912 and 1932 in Rudolf Marloth’s Flora of South Africa. The 176 plates have been digitized (available on SUNDigital) and was done by botanical artists such as Ethel May Dixie (1876-1973), Esther Smith (1878-1954), Florence Amy Thwaits and Peter McManus, with handwritten notes and instructions for the printers by Marloth.

 

Vernacular Architecture

James Walton Collection:

https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/312

This collection focus on vernacular architecture in South Africa and consist of documents with contributions by James Walton and other authors on African ethnology, vernacular architecture and conservation/ preservation.  It includes books; encyclopaedias; periodicals; pamphlets; newsletters; lectures; portfolios; albums; slides; photos; sketches; plans; newspaper clippings; reports; surveys; maps; charts; plans; etc.

A selection of his work can be viewed at:  SUNDigital: https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/312

 

Andre Pretorius Collection

https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/15241

Andre Pretorius collection which consists of material collected by André Pretorius (1935-2006), author, photographer and conservationist. The material pertains mainly to the areas in the Western, Northern and Eastern Cape. The collection contains photographs; newspaper clippings; articles; brochures and correspondence.

A selection of his work can be viewed at:  SUNDigital:  https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/870

 

Joanna Marx Collection

https://sun.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/27US_INST/1itjhcu/alma990007981940803436

This collection consists of South African heritage material, mainly SAHRA (old NMC) as well as UK material. There is a large section of material pertaining to mills (South Africa, UK and the Netherlands). Pamphlets; brochures; newsletters; lecture notes; portfolios; albums; photos; sketches; plans; newspaper clippings; conservation/preservation of buildings; reports; surveys and miscellaneous information; maps; charts and plans form a large part of the collection.

 

Francois Smuts Collection

https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/5911

This collection consists of correspondence; lectures; photographs; articles; clippings; manuscripts of “Stellenbosch three centuries” and “Die grondeienaars van Stellenbosch” https://digital.lib.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.2/5911

This display served as a reminder of the many layers of heritage that we are fortunate to share and celebrate as a nation. It stood as an invitation to explore, learn, and appreciate the cultures that continue to enrich our society.

Learn more about SU Library Special Collections on their libguide:   https://libguides.sun.ac.za/special_collection

 

Theresa Schoeman

 

 

In this Q&A feature, we celebrate the academic achievements of two dedicated Stellenbosch University Library and Information Service staff members who have recently earned their master’s degrees. Mr. Mbongiseni Magagula, Faculty Librarian at the SU Music Library, and Mr. Xabiso Xesi, Manager of Research Data Services, share their journeys, motivations, and the impact these accomplishments have had on their careers.

Mr. Magagula completed his Master of Commerce in Leadership Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, with a thesis titled “Exploring Leadership Competencies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Library in a Digital Age.” His work blends his passions for music, arts, and leadership within the library sector. Mr. Xesi recently graduated on 2 September 2024, with a master’s degree focused on “The Adoption of Research Data Management Practices by Emerging Researchers: A Case Study of Emerging Researchers at a Higher Education Institution in the Western Cape, South Africa,” supervised by Michelle Kahn.

Q&A with Mr. Xabiso Xesi

Q: What inspired you to pursue a master’s degree in your field?

A: I have a background in information systems and wanted to enhance my knowledge of library processes. My main goal was to understand the foundational aspects of information management systems within an academic library setting.

Q: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced during your studies?

A: One of my memorable moments is when I was selected as the recipient of the 2023 Research Seminar Series award for the most impactful student participation. The challenge I faced was around ethics application.

Q: How has earning this degree impacted your career goals or perspective on your field?

A: Earning this degree has motivated me to start exploring potential PhD topics that align with my interest in library science. It has also deepened my understanding of the field and reinforced my commitment to advancing my career in this area.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s degree?

A: My advice is to remember that “your first draft is not going to be perfect.” Take great care with your submissions and never miss a deadline. Also, be sure to apply for ethics approval as early as possible to avoid delays in your research.

Q: What are your next steps or plans now that you have completed your master’s?

A: My next step is to pursue a PhD focused on “enhancing user experience in digital knowledge management systems: An inclusive and adaptive framework for academic libraries.”

Q&A with Mr. Mbongiseni Magagula

Q: What inspired you to pursue a master’s degree in your field?

A: Interestingly, I initially wanted to pursue public policy but was denied, as the department strictly offered it to students with a political science and public policy background (undergraduate degree). As a musician or arts administrator working in the music industry with the late Mr. Mbongeni Ngema, among others, and as a Library Information Science professional sitting in board meetings and serving on various library committees, I realised a significant gap in arts administration. This motivated me to combine my passion for leadership and creativity. I noticed a significant gap in leadership and administration within library services, particularly in specialised areas like academic libraries. This observation motivated me to pursue further qualifications. By pursuing this qualification, I aimed to bridge this gap and develop the necessary expertise to lead and innovate within the library sector, ensuring that our services remain relevant, dynamic, and responsive to the evolving needs of our users.

Q: Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you faced during your studies?

A: Moving to Stellenbosch right after registering for my degree and adapting to the new environment was a major challenge. Juggling the demands of my new employment with academic deadlines and personal commitments became difficult at times. However, this experience taught me important lessons about time management, prioritisation, and resilience. It drove me to create an organised routine, which eventually helped me excel both professionally and academically.

Q: How has earning this degree impacted your career goals or perspective on your field?

A: Obtaining this degree has greatly expanded my view of my musicianship and librarian duties. It has expanded my awareness of how leadership principles may be used in arts administration, which is consistent with my goal of bridging the gap between music, arts, and library science to empower myself and others. This confluence of areas has solidified my commitment to promoting significant change in both the creative and academic sectors.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a master’s degree?

A: Supposedly, it is critical to remain enquiring and guarantee that the course of study allows for exploring interdisciplinary interests, such as how I linked my passion for the arts, music, and librarianship with leadership studies. Time management is essential, especially when juggling numerous tasks, so preparing ahead and maximising your abilities will make the journey more rewarding. You should also reach out to other professionals in your field to build a support network and ensure you are prepared for the obligations of your education. Building a positive and professional relationship with your supervisor is critical to ease your study journey.

Q: What are your next steps or plans now that you have completed your master’s?

A: I am content to contribute whenever possible, using my experience to support projects and activities that correspond with my interests and professional objectives. In addition, I intend to investigate interest opportunities for enhancing arts administration and library services by using novel management practices and promoting collaborations that cross these disciplines.

In conclusion, the journey through a master’s degree is challenging yet immensely rewarding. It not only enhances professional knowledge and skills but also opens doors to new opportunities and perspectives in the field. Pursuing further education, like a PhD, is a testament to the commitment to continuous learning and advancing one’s career.

 

Theresa Schoeman

 

On 15 August 2024 the Nico Carstens Digital Database was handed over to the Music Library at Stellenbosch University. This handover marks a significant milestone in preserving and enhancing access to the extensive works of the renowned South African musician and accordionist, Nico Carstens.

During the handover meeting, the structure of the database was thoroughly explained. Klem Carstens detailed how the information was gathered and incorporated into the collection, a project that began in 2013. The process involved collecting records, taking photographs of all items held in the Music Library’s Documentation Centre for Music (DOMUS) and systematically adding the collected information to the database.

The database is divided into two main components: the Data section, which includes sheet music and documentation, and the Music section, which contains recordings and albums. Klem Carstens organised all music files into MP3 format and created MP4 videos for TV recordings of the songs, ensuring that all data was neatly compiled and synchronised. The database is designed to be researcher friendly, featuring intuitive navigation and search functions.

Additionally, a plastic container containing music and documentation (already integrated into the digital database), was also handed over.

Nico Carstens (1926-2016) was a prolific and versatile musician whose career spanned numerous genres and formats. He composed 600 works, with Anton de Waal penning lyrics for over 300 songs. Carstens published more than 1,000 compositions and produced over 100 commercial albums, selling more than two million records in South Africa alone. His influential work, Zambezi (1953), was recorded by 56 orchestras worldwide. Carstens also appeared in Afrikaans films and received several prestigious awards, including the Sarie Award, ATKV Award, SAMA, and an honorary accolade from the South African Academy for Science and Arts.

Founder of the Nico Carstens Orchestra in 1950, Carstens toured extensively across South Africa, and performed in various African countries and Europe. His South African engagements included TV and radio broadcasts, dance parties, agricultural shows, and music festivals, among others. He collaborated with notable musicians like Ray Phiri and his later works blended light Afrikaans music with Afro-jazz and Cape Malay influences.

The Nico Carstens collection donated to Stellenbosch University in 2012, encompass a wide array of paper documents and audiovisual materials, ensuring that Carstens’ rich legacy continues to be accessible for future research and appreciation.

 

Theresa Schoeman

An inspiring journey of passion, perseverance, and six Comrades Marathons

Introduction

In this enlightening interview, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Zisiwe Mnothoza, a dedicated athlete from Stellenbosch University Library who has completed six Comrades Marathons. Known for its gruelling distance and challenging terrain, the Comrades Marathon is not for the faint of heart. Zisiwe shares her inspiring story, revealing the immense dedication, rigorous training, and unwavering determination required to conquer this iconic ultramarathon. Through this conversation, we gain valuable insights into Zisiwe’s experiences, motivations, and the profound impact this journey has had on her life. Join us as we explore the essence of endurance and the spirit of a true marathon runner.

Q: What inspired you to start running, and what motivated you to participate in the Comrades Marathon?

A: Athletics has been my hobby since my early school grades. During my school days, I was a track and field athlete both in primary and high school. That didn’t end there; my interest and tireless involvement in athletics, specifically in running, grew even more when I got to university. I challenged myself even more by joining long-distance races gradually as I was still not quite sure which race exactly I fit well into. Evident that this is like a calling to me, I used to participate in races where we never received or per se never expected any prizes. When we were lucky, we would receive goodie bags as a motivation to do more and not be demotivated. The more I participated in different races, the more I got an opportunity to meet different runners. I started networking, and someone mentioned something about the Comrades Marathon, which triggered my interest even more. I started doing a bit of research about it, and I decided to challenge myself and joined just to see how far my body could carry me. Today, under my belt, I have recorded six Comrades Marathons with no regrets for the chance I have taken. If given the chance again, I would grab it with both hands because running the Comrades Marathon has helped me a lot in my life and given me an opportunity to meet different people. It also helped me to jump out of the introvert space.

Q: Can you describe your training regimen in the months leading up to the marathon? How did you prepare physically and mentally?

A: Before Comrades 2024, I followed a training program that helped me achieve my goal. The preparation was not easy, but I always reminded myself of the people rooting for me, which eased my mental preparation because I always glued my mind to my goals. One of my goals is to make my supporters proud. The training was challenging, especially as race day approached because it was dark during the winter season, and I was training alone during the week. I had to be brave and train in the mornings close to where I work because it felt safer. I chose one spot to train in because I was familiar with the area and knew there wouldn’t be any obstacles.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the race, and how did you overcome them?

A: The challenge I typically face during races is cramps, but luckily this year I didn’t experience any. I conducted extensive research on cramps, so I knew how to prevent them.

Q: Do you have any memorable moments or highlights from your Comrades Marathon experiences that you can share?

A: Highlights of the Comrades Marathon include the incredible support from colleagues, friends, and family. Being the first woman to finish in my club is the ultimate achievement.

Q: How has participating in the Comrades Marathon impacted your life, both personally and professionally?

A: The Comrades Marathon has taught me discipline, consistency, and proper time management. It has also taught me the value of sharing (UBUNTU) during or out of the race.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering running the Comrades Marathon for the first time?

A: The advice I would give to someone considering the Comrades Marathon is to commit, be consistent, stick to the plan, and not follow every piece of advice you receive. Everyone is different, so not everything that works for someone else will work for you!

 

Theresa Schoeman

 

The Library and Information Service is delighted to present its Annual report 2023. The report highlights the various activities undertaken by the Library to achieve its strategic objectives, which are in line with SU’s Vision 2040 and Strategic Framework 2019–2024.

Discover our numerous successes, including the hosting of a successful Open Repositories Conference, the quality certification of our institutional data repository (SUNScholarData), the receiving of a MACE Excellence Award for our TikTok initiatives, the Lifetime Achievement Award received by our Senior Director Ms Ellen Tise, the holding of a successful Library Research Week, favourable terms negotiated for open access publishing for SU researchers, the Manuscripts Section Lecture titled: ‘Woorde WAT groei‘ (“Words that grow”), and our visual redress initiatives.

The report focuses on our services, collections, technology, scholarship and partnerships during 2023. Read the report to learn about various ways our agile staff continue to make significant contributions on both national and international fora.

For more information contact Mimi Seyffert-Wirth​  |  t: +27 21 808 9431

 

Theresa Schoeman