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GEORGE NEWS & VIDEO - With a long list of accomplishments and a career every brave, strong woman can only dream of, Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi has taken on her latest challenge: the post of chancellor of the Nelson Mandela University.
George Herald spoke to the woman behind the title, and what a wonderful, friendly and open person we got to meet!
She has probably done everything she set out to do in her career, which started on the Cape Flats where she developed a keen political awareness from an early age. But of everything she has accomplished, her family is her top priority. She says Sunday lunch is a big thing in her home. "It's time for everyone to come together and share of their lives."
She enjoys being a grandmother, to cook and to sit on her stoep with her husband, enjoy a cup of tea and relax. Travelling is also a favourite. She loved West Africa - this is where her favourite piece of clothing comes from. "It's a long skirt and top which I wore to my inauguration," she reveals.
She loves Kenny G. Havana, Cuba, is her favourite place - the three times she's been there just made her want more. The best advice she ever received was when she got married. "They said because we are both leaders, we can either destroy ourselves or decide to build this family together. And another piece of advice was to never fear to dream big." Fraser-Moleketi takes some "me time" in the morning to do a bit of yoga, which helps to strengthen her core.
Watch a video below:
Fraser-Moleketi says as chancellor she has strong support in the form of Council chair Nozipho January-Bardill and Vice-Chancellor Prof Sibongile Muthwa. It is the first time in the history of the university that three strong women are at the helm.
"I was quite intimidated when I was approached to take up the position," she says. "It is an absolute honour."
She did some research on chancellors through the years and at different universities and is happy to be counted among the calibre of people that came before her. Over time she has also learned to be open to opportunities, innovation and new ideas. The 2019 graduation was her first visit to the George campus and she thinks it is quite unique. "It is one of the most beautiful of our eight campuses."
Fraser-Moleketi at the helm of NMU with the support of (left) Council Chair Ambassador Nozipho January-Bardill and (right) Vice-Chancellor Prof Sibongile Muthwa.
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