who we heard from in 2018:

Name: Shintelle Samantha Du Plooy
Maiden surname: Bhana
Matriculated: 1993
I was one of the few honored girls of “colour” to be accepted by the then principal Mrs Natalie Stear, as our country ushered in the New South Africa in 1991. Mrs Stear immediately realized during her interview that I would not only be an assest to the school but was also desperately and clearly needed to add some “colour” to the school (excuse the pun).   
During my years at Riebeek I was in many societies including Interact and was honored to represent Riebeek on and off the sports field. I am most proud of our Netball first team achievements under the leadership of Mrs Boucher (now Dr Boucher) and remember with fondness how we made the Victoria High girl’s cry when we won the Inter High School Trophy which they believed would be theirs for the 5th year running.
Riebeek later also accepted my baby sister Danelle Bhana now married and living abroad in Taiwan as Mrs Coetzee. She was selected as prefect but could not play netball to save her life to the disappointment of Dr Boucher.
I started my studies in the field of travel and tourism but soon realized that I was destined to follow in the footsteps of my mother Heather Bhana, retired principal of Seagull Primary and pursue teaching.
I’m the Grade 1 educator at Uitenhage Convent Primary and it prides me to say that many of our past pupils have graced these halls.
I am a proud past pupil of Riebeek College, where I formed friendships that still exist today. Proud class of 1993.  “Ora et Labora” will always stand the test. Thank you for my memories Mrs Natalie Stear!      

Name of Old Girl:
Kathy
Surname of Old Girl:
Nel
Maiden Surname (if married):
Partington
Year Matriculated or year you would have matriculated at Riebeek if you had left school to go elsewhere:
Can't remember...arou d 1972..did not graduate
Did you study further after school? (Where, what and when):
Rhodes BA; BA Hons; MA Counselling Psychology; PhD Psychology
Where do you work and what is your profession, job title, position? Tell us a bit about your career path, highs and lows professionally.
University of Limpopo full professor psychology..NRF rated researcher a highlight. Was an associate professor before that a senior lecturer at medunsa. Previous an HOD industrial psychology at UZ. Studied late in life! Never too LATE!
Are you married? When did you marry? What is your husband’s name AND what is his profession?
Married Louis nel...senior lecturer at a TC. ..and tennis coach. Now retired. Married 35 years.
Are you a mother? If so, what are your children’s names and ages as at 1 December 2016:
4 as of 2018 Robin 46 Mary 40 Christopher 30 Katy 25

Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your life: What lessons did you learn at Riebeek?
Don't be a bully a bully and

Don't bully others
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF SCHOOL?
History classes

 

Name of Old Girl: Jhene 
Surname of Old Girl:      Nel
Maiden Surname (if married): Meyer
Year Matriculated or year you would have matriculated at Riebeek if you had left school to go elsewhere:     2008       
Did you study further after school?  (Where, what and when):
2009-2011 University of Pretoria. Bcom Tourism (Marketing and Business Management as Majors)
2014-2016 IMM Graduate School, Bachelor of Philosophy Hons in Marketing 
Where do you work and what is your profession, job title, position?  Tell us a  bit about your career path, highs and lows professionally.
In 2012 I was hired ,barely graduated, as the Inland promotions coordinator for a liquor company called DGB. Here I learnt about brand management and my passion for brands and how to develop and grow brands. I worked on brands such as Jagermeister, Po10c, Zappa and Strawberry Lips. I was also apart of the team that created the Starwberry Lips Brand. 
In 2016 I was offered a role at The Creative Counsel (Tcc) as a project manager. This role gave me the opportunity to work of a variety of different brands from compass such as Unilever, Mondelez, Tiger Brands, Amka and Diageo. 
Exactly one year later I moved into a senior client service manager role on the Diageo account due to my knowledge on the liquor portfolio. I have been running activation's portfolio for Johnnie Walker Black Label, J&B, Captain Morgan, Johnnie Walker Red label and Smirnoff for the last year. 
I have however signed a contract to go work for company called Infinity Media to head up a new division that the company has been awarded to them which will be the Webfluential Division. I will be the Divisional head of sales for the organization. An exciting challenge to merge Marketing and Sales ! 
Are you married?  Yes
When did you marry?  19 March 2016
What is your husband’s name Steven Nel
AND what is his profession? Off trade sales rep for Edward Snell Pta Ltd 
Are you a mother? No
Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your life:
I have always been a very sporty person and continued to play hockey for Tuks as well as casual leagues post school. I was however diagnosed with Lupus in February 2017 and WOW you think you have life figured out until you get thrown a health curve ball. Throught he support of my husband and family and am happy to say I went into remission 8 months later. There are still daily challenges but through the values I was taught from a young age, I managed to grow in my professional career as well as personal relationships through this tough time. I still enjoy sport, hiking and gardening when my body allows ! My animals are my everything and are my babies ! 
Lessons learnt at Riebeek: Organization, multi tasking, respect for peers, discipline are a few daily values that were distilled into me from a young age that I still practice daily in my professional and personal life 
 
Memories of Riebeek: Friends, sports tours, history lessons, the teachers, internal school activities, drama productions , Mrs Stear leaving, Mrs Woods becoming principle and school dances
Which Teacher / student has the biggest impact on me:
#1- it was my grade 8 prize giving, my first as apart of the high school. Lana Panagas won numerous awards that evening. It was in that moment that I realized that if I applied myself to school, it’s activities and opportunities I one day to could achieve all my goals and be that girl being awarded in her matric year. Needless to say my matric prize giving remains a very special memory for me 
#2 - Mrs Gerber. My parents were very supportive of all my school activities but they were never apart of any school meetings and didn’t quite understand our structure. They never encouraged me to join any club or play any sport but to rather decide for myself what it is that I like to do. Mrs Gerber became that Mom at school that would always push me to do better and more. She introduced me to drama and cultural club, Clubs that I had no interest in prior to forming a bond with her. Her support and letters of recommendation helped mold the lady I was he day I left Riebeek as well as how I performed in my work life. 
#3- Mrs Woods. I loved what she stood for. Her directness, way of being and through and through support of every girl in her school. 
 

Name of Old Girl:    
 Lithalethemba       
Surname of Old Girl:     
 Stwayi
Year Matriculated or year you would have matriculated at Riebeek if you had left school to go elsewhere:        
 2008
Did you study further after school?  (Where, what and when):
University of Pretoria, LLB, 2009
Where do you work and what is your profession, job title, position?  Tell us a  bit about your career path, highs and lows professionally.
I am a junior attorney at the Centre for Child Law. I am a human rights lawyer, focusing on children's rights and issues. We do strategic impact litigation, meaning that the cases we choose assist the individual child as well as similarly placed children in the country. 
 
Getting admitted as an attorney was a high. Also, getting a judgement in your favour is great.
A low, at this time, has to be the Michael Komape case where the child died from falling into a pit latrine. It's a case that is done by an organisation called Section 27. It's a blow for children's rights as a whole, because it places the value of a child as almost negligible. When the child died because the department of basic education failed to do it's job, in fixing the school environment. 
We still have a long way to go.
 
Are you married?  When did you marry?  What is your husband’s name AND what is his profession?
Not married.
Are you a mother?  If so, what are your children’s names and ages as at 1 December 2018:
Not a parent.
Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your life:
I enjoy reading, and running. We started a running club at work in order to encourage us to run local races.
What lessons did you learn at Riebeek?
I can do anything I set my mind to. Riebeek showed me that I could never conform to the norm or be part of the sheep. I value my independence and exploring new things.
What are some of your memories of Riebeek?
I remember Mrs Zietsmann's choir. I remember the drama productions that I was a part of and had managed to convince my very stubborn friends to join, namely Buyelwa Gxido, the production being Impi. I enjoyed playing hockey as well. Also, receiving the deportment cup was a highlight. 
Which of the values of Riebeek have you kept throughout your life?
Being diligent and persevering will always yield results. Also, compassion goes a long way.
Which Riebeek OLD GIRL/ TEACHER had the greatest impact on you and how/why?
 Nina Esselaar - the head girl when I was in gr4. She was awesome, I stayed in her dorm at my first SU camp. I think I hugged her everyday for a month straight after that camp.
Mrs Gerber, I enjoyed history and the drama productions. She always pushed us to be the best. Also, that demanding the best is not too much to ask for. 

 

Name of Old Girl: Jennifer
Surname of Old Girl: Dorfling
Maiden Surname (if married): Doria
Year Matriculated or year you would have matriculated at Riebeek if you had left school to go elsewhere:     2008      
Did you study further after school?  (Where, what and when): Yes, BCom Industrial Psychology and Human Resources Management ; Honours Degree Labour Relations and Human Resources Management ; Labour Law Masters (2018). Nelson Mandela University.
Where do you work and what is your profession, job title, position?  Tell us a  bit about your career path, highs and lows professionally.
Coca Cola Beverages South Africa
Position: HR Analytics
Are you married?  When did you marry?  What is your husband’s name AND what is his profession? Yes – 7 November 2015. Husbands name is Francois Dorfling. He works for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company.
Are you a mother?  If so, what are your children’s names and ages as at 1 December 2018 – Not yet, but I am pregnant.
Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your life:
10 years has passed since I have matriculated. I am still living in Uitenhage and working for the most iconic brand Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa. My hobbies include travelling, camping, photography, singing and baking.
What lessons did you learn at Riebeek?  Stay humble – be kind – give back always.  
What are some of your memories of Riebeek? Gala’s with Eleanor, Elton and Elizabeth performing and battling each other. Baking and making food in Home Economics with Mrs Ferreira.
Which of the values of Riebeek have you kept throughout your life? Education is a powerful key which can be used to unlock many doors in life.
Which Riebeek OLD GIRL/ TEACHER had the greatest impact on you and how/why? Mrs Jane Myburgh, my Afrikaans teacher – Mrs Myburgh made learning fun, she is always friendly, supportive and caring.

 

Joslyn (nee Gilbert) Oosthuizen.
 
Matriculated in 2008.
 
Studied food preparation at Warwicks Chef School in Hermanus in 2009.
 
Currently work as the admin clerk at the Uitenhage SPCA. I love my job but some days are tougher than others - people can be very cruel to animals, however each day is different with new opportunities to make a difference in the lives of those who can't speak for themselves.
 
I married Steve Oosthuizen in January 2010. He is an electrical engineer and identifies and fixes problems on cellphone towers. He currently works for Tracker handling technical problems on their towers.
 
I am mom to two special people. My eldest is 7 and his name is Seth John. My daughter is 5 and her name is Rebecca May.
 
I enjoy fishing with hubby, home renovations, gardening and spending time with my animals at home, although working six days a week doesnt leave much room for relaxation.
 
Riebeek taught me many lessons which have served me very well. Knowing when to hold your tongue and rather swollow that thought. Being mindful that you are generally a small fish in a big pond. Being respectful of everybody - even the cleaner. Sometimes you dont win and thats ok.
 
Memories include the teachers like Mrs Clarkes beauty lesssons, Ms Immelmans outlook on life, Mr Jonas and Mrs Woods passion for discipline. Teachers extra effort like Mrs Gerbers notes, Ms Immelman and Mrs Peltason driving to Grahamstown many times and Mrs Botha explaining maths. Spot the Dalmatian too.
 
I value respect and work ethic. Doing my work to the best of my ability.
 
Ms Immelman taught me that its ok to think differently.
Mrs Gerber taught me to structure my thoughts and write with a purpose.
Mrs Woods taught me that its ok to think something but sometimes it's better not to say or act on it.
These ladies have given me an advantage in various work situations whether dealing with a hostile member of the public, assisting with evidence in court cases or helping a family find the right pet to join the family.
 

 

 

News from norman balwin webb

Name of Old Girl:
Norma
Surname of Old Girl:
Webb
Maiden Surname (if married):
Baldwin
Year Matriculated or year you would have matriculated at Riebeek if you had left school to go elsewhere:
Would have matriculated in 1964 but moved to Durban around 1958 and finished school there.
Did you study further after school? (Where, what and when):
No post secondary education.
Where do you work and what is your profession, job title, position? Tell us a bit about your career path, highs and lows professionally.
Moved to Canada at 19 and became a draughtsperson. Later specializing in Industrial Electrical Design. Worked in the Oil and Gas industry in Alberta and later moved to British Columbia and switched to Pulp and Paper and Clean Coal Power Plant Design. My last job before I retired at 65 was with SNC Lavalin Inc. The largest Consulting Engineering company in Canada and they also have international offices all over the world, one being located in Johannesburg.
Are you married? When did you marry? What is your husband’s name AND what is his profession?
I was married in 1970 to Michael David Webb from Durban. He went to DHS Boys High School. Started out as a Land Surveyor but migrated into sales with Table Top foods. We are no longer married.
Are you a mother? If so, what are your children’s names and ages as at 1 December 2016:
No children.
Tell us a bit about yourself, your hobbies, your life: What lessons did you learn at Riebeek?
I am now retired and living in a small community accessible by ferry from Vancouver on the West Coast of Canada. Now that my career is over and I have the time I travel a lot during the Winter to warmer climates. Mexico, Arizona or Hawaii. Every now and again I visit South Africa and would be interested in attending a reunion of my year which would be 1964. I have many cousins who attended Riebeek. Carol Baldwin, same year as me. The Brown sisters, Heather, Beverly, Sharon and Debbie who I know now works for Riebeek as your bursar. Riebeek taught me the importance of a good education. It is the only thing that parents can give their children that truly matters.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE MEMORIES OF SCHOOL?
Learning tennis and going for swimming lessons up at the baths. Also dressing in fairy costumes for play acting. 42 little girls in my Sub A class. I have the picture and I know all their names.
 

By Heather Wilkinson 

Amor du Preez Daniyaal Demaine (Class of 1992) obtained her National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry. She is a Laboratory Quality Consultant .She is a mother of two beautiful daughters, Aqeelah Demaine (18) and Safiyah Demaine (5). She loves family outings to the beach, coffee shops and festivals. She loved  English lessons with Mrs Young, admired Mrs Stear’s dignified and upstanding manner and loved Mr Hoare’s sweet nature and creative Science lessons.
Diana Vermaak Wilson (Class of 1964) left South Africa for Canada in 1999 and now lives in Calgary, Alberta. She spent twenty years in Stellenbosch where her husband Richard built a beautiful home for her and their children.  Her travels included Russia (where she had a river tour from St Petersburg to Moscow) and Poland. In 2015 she and her husband embarked on their greatest adventure:  they circled around the entire globe.  This was an adventure to visit their children: Ruth Catherin (44) who lives in Strasbourg, France with her French husband and 2 children; Naomi Burger (42) who lives in Reigate, England with her three children and works in London as an actuary and Marina Greaney (41) who lives in Perth, Australia with her husband and two little boys. The teacher she remembers most fondly is Miss Gordon who was the Arithmetic teacher in Standard 6. Mrs Chaplain, who was the Mathematics teacher throughout her high school years, also holds a special place in her memories for being so meticulous and organised. The Christmas Carol service, which was held each year, remains as a special memory for Diana as each class had a carol or two to learn. Her teachers had such an impact on her life that she decided to study a Primary Higher Academic Diploma when she left school.
Felicity MacDonald (Class of 1974) studied a Diploma in Datametrics at UNISA and became a system engineer at IBM. She is the mother of Dieter (39) and Ursula (38) and a proud grandmother. Her hobbies include driving race cars, walks along the beach and spending time with her grandchildren. She remembers her teacher Mrs Van Onselen who had to punish her for always losing her hat because. The  punishment was to learn all the verses of 1 Corinthians 13.  She still remembers them and she shocked all her classmates when she was able to recite them because she was the only one in primary school who had ever been able to do so. She lives in Orlando, Florida. 
Julie Austin Hechter (Class of 1992)  is the mother of Cailyn (17) and Hayley (15) who attend Paarl Girls’ High. She studied B.Prim.Ed at NMMU and is a Grade 5 teacher at Kenridge Primary School in Durbanville, Cape Town. She loves reading, traveling, running and being outdoors. 
Sheila Barness-Webb Burkett (Class of 1967) joined the S.A.A. after leaving school and moved to Cape Town when she married her husband Neil, who was the coach/co-ordinator with Western Province Cricket Club at the time. While living in Cape Town Sheila played Inter Provincial tennis for the Western Province before moving to Australia due to her husband’s work in 2008. She has two daughters, Natasha in Port Elizabeth who is married with two children and Taryn in Cape Town who is also married.
 Heather Brown McEwan (Class of 1967) was accepted as a trainee Medical Technologist at the South African Institute of Medical Research upon matriculating from Riebeek. She passed her finals in Clinical Pathology and chose to work in Bio-Chemistry. She married Peter McEwan and soon welcomed her children Gillian Leigh and Craig Oliver into her life in 1978. She feels especially lucky to still have her children and grandchildren live close to her in South Africa. She lives in Wedgewood Golf Estate in Greenbushes and put many long hours of planning into the design of her home. They are as self-sufficient as possible and enjoy their country lifestyle on their “own little piece of Heaven”.
Jenny Clark Potgieter (Class of 1967) joined Barclays Bank after leaving school and met her husband Evert in May 1968. They moved to Airforce Base Langebaanweg soon after their wedding. A year later she had her first child, Andre, followed soon after by his siblings Morne and Stacey. Their family was then transferred to Airforce Base Hoedspruit as one of the pioneer families when the base was being built. Her fondest memories are from her time at Airforce Base Ondangwa in the operational area in Namibia during the Bush War. She was working at the local Barclays Bank until the adjacent Post Office was destroyed by a Swapo terrorist bomb. After that incident she re-joined the Airforce and worked in the signals office as a code breaker and radio operator. She resigned from the Department of Agriculture in 2015 after twenty-three years of service and decided to join her sons in the United Kingdom where she works as a Carer.. She remembers her years at Riebeek with much love and nostalgia, especially when she reminisces on her Hostel memories.
Yvonne Dawson Barnes (Class of 1967) is a proud mother of Greg and Meredith and grandmother to Josh (13) and Kade (11). She worked for most of her life since graduating from NMMU and is an Independent Insurance Broker. Her highlights in life swimming with dolphins, her mischievous ginger cat and playing bowls.
Julia Dawson Potgieter (Class of 1967)is blessed with two daughters, Lauren (37) and Sharon (33) and three grandchildren.  Julia worked for Volkswagen for  46 years and 10 months before she retired in February 2016. She was the longest serving female employee and the second longest serving employee at Volkswagen.
Gail Gillmer Ehbel (Class of 1967) studied a Secretarial Practice Certificate at Rhodes University. She met her husband, a Horticulturist, whilst she was in Johannesburg and they returned to the Eastern Cape for their marriage in 1972. She joined NMMU as a Faculty Officer in the Faculty of Arts and remained there until she retired as Senior Manager of the Faculty of Administration overseeing the faculty administration work for the Faculties of Arts, Education and Health Sciences. Their son Russell lives in Cork, Ireland with his wife and two children and their daughter lives and works in Zurich, Switzerland. She travels to visit her family as often as possible and is enjoying her retirement in Amsterdam Hoek.
Lyn Hosking Van Der Merwe (Class of 1967) completed a BSc and NHED at Rhodes University and proceeded to teach Biology for many years. She retired from the post of Deputy Principal at The Settlers High School at the end of 2011. Lyn and her husband celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this year with their two sons, Stephen and Justin, and their daughter, Kristin. Since retiring she has served on the committee of the Heritage Society in Durbanville and has enjoyed planning and arranging outings and meetings.
Helen Holms Knight (Class of 1967)  taught for forty-two years and retired at the end of 2016. She has three sons and three grandchildren, all of whom she loves dearly. She currently stays with her partner, Peter, in the village of Riebeek-Kasteel in the Western Cape. Her hobbies include knitting, drawing, gardening and reading. 
Susan Lucas Jones (Class of 1967) married Glyn in 1979 and eleven months later they moved to live in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for two and a half years. Their next venture took them to Wales for six years and then they returned to South Africa for a spell. They moved to Gabarone, Botswana for fourteen years when later an opportunity arose to purchase a valve reconditioning factory in Benoni. Ten years later they are now retired to Beachview.  
Jenny Krain Senekal (Class of 1967) has been married to Harry for forty-five years and they have two sons: Charles, a Civil Engineer in Montreal, Quebec and Steve  an architect in London. She enrolled at the Port Elizabeth Oceanarium where she was trained by Dr.Vanessa Strauss of SANCOB Cape Town. The training included the rehabilitation of seabirds and seals. She became a founding member of SAMREC and she teamed up with Shamwari’s Education department to conduction outreach programmes. She has had the privilege of going to sea on the SS Mendi and the research ships FRS Algoa and SA Agulhas. Her best moment was being Dr Bill Branch’s assistant. Today she is a professional homemaker who spends as much time as possible out hiking.
Sharon Drugel Burrows (Class of 1967)  married Tony in 1972 and had two daughters in 1979 and 1981. She started making wedding gowns in order to stay at home with her young daughters and continues to do so to this day.  She has made over 4500 wedding gowns, including wedding gowns for Shawn Pollock’s sister, Jonty Rhodes wife, Andrew Hudson’s wife and Gary Teichmann’s wife. Her gowns have also been worn by a few Miss South Africa winners and contestants. Jeremy Thompson’s wife also won a competition in the You magazine wearing one of Sharon’s wedding gowns. She has won various prizes including a Bridal Industry of South Africa Award.
Michele Maskre Nel (Class of 1967) met her husband Owen at Rhodes University.t Owen was a Science Teacher and became Headmaster of Claredon Girls’ High School.  Michele started her working career as a History teacher at Claredon Girls High School and became Head of Department. She taught there for six years but decided to stop working while her children were young. Her eldest child, Andrew, was born profoundly deaf and her daughter, Nicole, was only 9 months old at the time of his birth. He was fitted with hearing aids and they visited the Centre which assisted Andrew with his hearing every three months to learn how to teach him to talk using the auditory–verbal method. They moved to Cape Town in 1984 and Michele was offered a position teaching three to four year olds at the Carel du Toit Centre. This was quite a change from teaching History to Matric students. They returned to East London in 1985 and she took over the Theodore Blumberg Clinic for pre-school deaf children. She has recently retired after running the Theodore Blumberg Clinic for thirty-two years. One of the highlights for her Eastern Cape Centre was when they were awarded the National Development Agency National Award in 2015 for being the Best Centre in South Africa for babies and children with disabilities. Her daughter became the fashion editor for Highbury Safika Media in Cape Town and her son Andrew (who now has bilateral cochlear implants) has completed his PH.D in Microbiology and Biochemistry and is working in the Institute of Integrative BioMedical Sciences at UCT.
Renee van Rooyen Baard (Class of 1967) studied music at the Cape Town School of Music and taught for many years at various schools.  She lived in Cape Town for seventeen years before moving to Addo to become a Citrus/Lucerne farmer and Thorough-Bred Horse breeder with her husband. She continued to teach music and also became a Boerbull breeder for several years. Her son Stefan (43) is a duty solicitor in London.Her daughter Carine matriculated at Riebeek, studied at Cape Town University and worked with autistic children for many years, becoming Head of Autism at a school in London and is now working in Abu Dhabi as Head of Inclusion. Renee feels very fortunate to be surrounded by her wonderful friends, family, two children and four grandchildren.
Bonnie Van den Berg Cawood (Class of 1967) has been working most of her life in the exciting, vibrant and never boring Hospitality Industry as the General Manager of a Boutique Hotel, Manager of Guest Houses, PRO and Co-ordinator for weddings, product launches and  conferences for various Hotel Groups in Port Elizabeth. She has two amazing sons, Nicholas (43) and Patrick (41) and three lovely grandchildren.
Joy Weiss Williams (Class of 1967) married David thirty-seven years ago and they have a son Andrew and a daughter Susan.  Both of their children are qualified Chartered Accountants. She adores spending time with her children and three grandchildren. She stayed at home whilst her children were young and when then spent nineteen years at Deloitte & Touche as a personal assistant to one of the partners. She was nominated as “Secretary of the Year”.  She  joined the Quilting Guild.
Jenny Benjamin Hosking (Class of 1977) studied a BA Degree in History, Biblical Studies and English. She also completed her Post Graduate Degree and a Higher Education Diploma. Once she graduated she taught high school English and History at a school in Port Elizabeth until she was relocated to Johannesburg. She became Head of the English Department at a private school in the Northern Suburbs of Johannesburg. She has three daughters, Courtney, Kelsey and Brittany and when she had her third daughter she decided to stop teaching in order to spend more time with her children. She ran a beauty salon from her home until her youngest daughter was old enough to attend school. She then joined her husband, Alan, in their media company as an Editor on various publications. She married her husband Alan, who is an old Muirite, in 1979 and his family have strong ties to the history of Uitenhage because Hosking Street is named after his great grandfather. Alan founded a publishing house in Johannesburg and is a B2B publisher, author and public speaker. Jenny remembers her days at Riebeek vividly and comments on how Riebeek was able to successfully mould and shape her into the woman she is today. She says Riebeek has produced many high calibre girls.
Patricia Murray Dickason (Class of 1992) is  married to Carl who is a Senior Automated Technician. They have one daughter, Jessica (13), whom they love dearly and support regularly at her swimming and netball competitions. They moved to New Zealand seven years ago and live in Palmerston North. There were numerous teachers who made an impact on Patricia’s life at school. One such teacher was her netball and Afrikaans teacher, Dr Boucher, who Patricia describes as an amazing person who was always kind and had a passion for life. Mrs Woods was her Standard 5 teacher and Patricia loved the way she was able to make the class laugh and feel important. Her favourite years at Riebeek were from Standard 8 to Matric as there were many opportunities available to join committees and sports teams. She also loved her time at the Riebeek hostel and she was fortunate enough to be voted as both a hostel and school prefect.
Priscilla  Hiscock Evert (Class of 1970) is the mother of Brent (40) and Grant (36) and married to Desmond, a retired SAP Officer. She worked in Sales, first as a representative and then as a Sales Executive and Director of a Packaging Company. Priscilla loved her teacher Mrs Abbott as she was a mother figure to many of the girls at school and always took time to listen and help.
Debra Brown Barnard (Class of1982) is the  Riebeek College Bursar. After working in the commerce field for many years, she  appreciates the school holidays. Debra studied a B Comm Accounting and has two children, Kaylee (23) and Jarryd (20). Debra belongs to many book clubs and enjoys doing Zumba. Mrs Woods had the greatest impact on her, first when she attended school and then when she had the privilege of working alongside her.
Karen van der Merwe Warneke (Class of 1982) worked her way up the corporate ladder until she became the Operations Manager at Medsheme Head Office in Johannesburg. She is married to Michael and has a son, Joshua (18). Karen is a volunteer fundraiser for George Child Welfare and also manages their social media page and the marketing of projects. She remembers painting murals in Standard 9 for the Matric Farewell and her needlework classes with Mrs Ehlers, who awoke within her a passion to sew and create.
Sylvia Ann Conrad Bolkovac (Class of 1953)
graduated from Kent State University in Ohio, USA but is now retired in Roswell. She married her husband Alfred, who was an industrial engineer for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, in 1954 and they have been married for sixty-two years. They have four children, nine grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren.
Tracy McKay Bandey (Class of 1992) studied a National Diploma in Industrial Engineering at NMMU.. She has a daughter, Tamryn (14), who attends Riebeek. Tracy started racing motor cars in her Matric year and won the Class D Regional Clubmans Saloons Championship in 1997. She has recently been able to return to racing and she is competing in the Regional Historics Championship in a 1983 Mini. She passed her love of racing to her daughter who is currently learning how to ride racing bikes with the Honda NSF development riders. During her time at Riebeek there were many teachers who made an impact on her life. Mrs Skeates, who was her Standard 2 teacher, influenced her long after she matriculated and even attended her 21st birthday. Mrs Skeates also taught her daughter Tamryn when she was in Grade 4. Mrs Woods, who was her Grade 7 teacher, taught her the real morals and values of being a Riebeek girl and these lessons have left a lasting impression on her to this day. Mr Hoare inspired her to choose her career path.  
 

cli ck below for news of the Class of 1967

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Old Girl News

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Old Girls’ News 

BY Nicola McEwan

Kim Stevens Randell (Class of 1994) studied Public Relations Management at PE Technikon before obtaining her Bachelor of Arts, Honours in Psychology and Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase) from UNISA. She worked at the University of Witwatersrand for 11 years, and headed up postgraduate admissions until September 2013, when she resigned to follow a career in teaching. Kim married Dr Bruce Randell, a consulting civil engineer who owns his own business, in 2002. She combines her passion for children and ballroom dancing by teaching a weekly dance class at a children’s home outside Johannesburg. Kim’s most beautiful childhood memories of her time at Riebeek include creating ‘magic medicine’ with Brigit in Mrs Sellick’s Standard Two class, sharing the excitement of being elected Senior Head and Deputy of the Library with Chantelle, and all the annual Carol Services. Never losing her childhood competitive streak, Kim misses being involved in the cultural and sporting activities of Riebeek. Mrs Sellick, Mrs Stark and Mrs Young had the greatest impact on her childhood.

 

Anthea Du Preez Wepener (Class of 2004) studied Hotel Management at Varsity College in Port Elizabeth but later left the hospitality business to follow her real passion and became a dog groomer. She married Dup Wepener, an air-con technician, in 2009. Anthea is blessed with two gorgeous children, Daniel Andrew, 11, and Zoe Jessica, 4. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her children, playing sports and coaching hockey. Anthea, who has kept her childhood bushy hair and Colgate smile, feels the worst part of being an adult is having to worry about money. At Riebeek, Anthea learnt to let go and express herself, which is a lesson she hopes her own children will learn. Miss Cooper, Amy Daniels and Jessica Bubb had the greatest effect on her childhood, and her favourite memories of her time at Riebeek are of everyone sitting in the corridor when it rained. 

 

Zimasa Kala (Class of 1994) obtained a National Diploma in Internal Auditing from PE Technikon, as well as a Post Graduate Diploma in Systems Management and a Masters Degree in Development Finance from UCT.She currently holds the position of Loan Monitoring Manager at the Eastern Cape Development Corporation in East London. Zimasa has two daughters, Butshabethu, 11, and Khwezi, 6, both attend Hudson Park Primary. In her spare time, Zimasa enjoys reading, contributing to Drum Magazine, going away on holiday and celebrating each day. She hopes today’s children learn that being different gives you a competitive edge, and that they enjoy discovering different aspects of themselves and their environment in their own good time. The teacher who had the greatest effect on her childhood was Mrs Natalie Stear.

 

Birgit Jeske Puttergill (Class of 1994) obtained her BCom from UPE and, after working in Purchasing at VW for 10 years, now acts as bookkeeper and chief administrator of the family farm. Birgit married Grant, a dairy farmer, in 2005 and the couple have 2 children, Oliver, 7, and Gabriella, 5. Her most beautiful childhood memories of Riebeek include cycling to school and back every day, playing 4-square, science experiments, and Inter-house Plays. To Birgit, a beautiful childhood is carefree and full of love, a place where the burden of time is not felt, and creativity and imagination have no limits.

 

Beverley Serfontein Fourie (Class of 1969) studied Medical Technology at both the PE and Johannesburg Technical Colleges. She married Stephen Fourie, a Registrar at Rhodes University, in 1974, and the couple have two children, Ian, 36, and Nicola, 34. In her spare time, Bev enjoys reading, taking photos, sewing, gardening, travelling and game viewing.  Her most beautiful memories of her time at Riebeek include abducting a boarder from the hostel and arriving at final assembly in a pre-arranged police van. She will never forget Miss Bartlett’s “Moderation in all things, girls’’ during assembly, and Mrs Chaplin encouraging neatness and clear mindedness when tackling tasks such as Maths.

 

Carine Baard Parks (Class of 1994) obtained a Higher Diploma in Education from UCT and has been working in the United Kingdom since 1999. She is currently in Senior Management in Education, with experience in Special Educational Needs.  Carine married David Parks, a senior IT programmer, in 2006. They met at UCT in 1995. The couple have two children, Fletcher, 8, and Mackenzie, 6. Carine lives a busy life, but when she gets the chance she enjoys cooking, entertaining, travelling and enjoying time with friends and family.

 

Michela Civico (Class of 2004) studied Hotel Management at Varsity College, and then studied Bookkeeping. She is working at Fiume Engineering. Michela is a family orientated person, who has a great love for Ferraris, so much so that she named her dog Enzo Ferrari. Her most beautiful memory of Riebeek is of her time spent running up and down hills, and she would like today’s children to learn that they should go outside and have fun, as technology is not everything. The teacher who had the greatest impact on her childhood was Mrs Gerber.

 

Elaine Parfitt Hornby (Class of 1989) currently works as a SAP Applications Consultant. She considers her job a blessing as she is able to meet many interesting people and learn something new every day. She has three children, Candice, 25, Josh, 17 and Bryce, 11, who are her life. She enjoys relaxing with friends and family in her free time. Elaine’s most beautiful memory of her time at Riebeek is of everyone tanning their legs in the quad at break. She believes a beautiful childhood is one in which you know you are loved but where you realize that life has consequences. Elaine misses all the holidays she had whilst at Riebeek and feels ex-principal Mrs Stear had the greatest influence on her childhood. She thinks responsibility is the worst part of being an adult, and would like the children of today to learn patience and compassion.

 

Justine Krisman Dreyer (Class of 2004) studied Medicine at the University of Pretoria. She married Rudie Dreyer, an entrepreneur, in 2007, and together they have a one year old baby girl, Zoe. Although Justine finds being a doctor a huge blessing and very rewarding, she is currently looking after her baby full time. She hopes to specialise in psychiatry, and enjoys reading, playing piano, gardening, scrapbooking and blogging. Justine’s most beautiful childhood memories of her time at Riebeek include playing hand tennis in Grade 5, pretending to be the Spice Girls in Grade 6, and last minute study sessions with friends before school. She thinks that a beautiful childhood is one where safety and love abound, potential is nurtured, friendships are built, talents are discovered, confidence is gained, the self is explored and the future appears as a road of promise leading off into the horizon.

 

Urslynn Machiu (Class of 2013) is studying BCom Mathematical Science at the University of Stellenbosch. Urslynn is a positive and upbeat person who enjoys travelling, meeting new people and discovering new things. Urslynn remembers her days at school as beautiful ones full of laughter and friends that always stuck together. Urslynn also remembers making up the most ridiculous songs with her classmates and Mrs Stevens comments in Maths class. Urslynn’s fondest memory is of the choir.

 

Jocelyn Carey Purcocks (Class of 2010) is in her final year of studying Occupational Therapy at the University of Stellenbosch. Jocelyn enjoys hiking, camping and sight-seeing. She also enjoys socialising with her friends when she gets a break from work. When Jocelyn thinks of her school days she remembers those early mornings, waking up excited for a hockey match, strenuous but fun drama rehearsals and enjoying errands for Mrs Gerber.

 

Jaydee Macdonald (Class of 2011) is currently in her final year of her BA Degree with majors in English Literature and Psychology. Jaydee enjoys spending time with her friends and family when she's not reading or working out at the gym. Most of Jaydee's memories of school are related to depending on the Holy Spirit to get her through Physical Science, the intense rise in blood pressure when Mrs Stevens handed out Maths papers from the highest mark downwards. Jaydee remembers her pet 'snake' named Luzuko that made her last cultural induction dinner really emotional. Jaydee said that she will always remember Riebeek as the biggest, most beautiful schooling gift her mother could have given her.

 

Lache Windvogel (Class of 2012) is studying towards her BCom degree in Chartered Accounting. Lache's fondest memories of school were Founder’s Day and singing "Let us now praise famous men", the cultural events that made school worth it and English classes with Mrs Swanepoel. Lache is passionate about working in her community and helping others. She's learnt that as someone who was blessed with such amazing opportunities has to give back to their community to try and uplift the youth so that they can also be afforded opportunities and not be afraid to try new things.

 

Kim Bermosky (Class of 2002) studied at the University of Stellenbosch and earned her Bachelor of Science degree and she later got her Bachelor of Surgery and Medicine at Walter Sisulu University in Mthata and is doing her community service at Settlers Hospital, Grahamstown. Kim’s most beautiful memories of Riebeek are serving on the Cultural Board, being head of Drama and being a prefect. Kim is truly grateful for the staff of the school for moulding her into the person she is today.

 

Stacey Simons-Welcome (Class of 2005) studied Financial Accounting at Damelin and works for Santa Lucia Trust. She married Evan and they have 2 beautiful children: Leah, 3, and Zachary, 8 months. Stacey enjoys days out with her husband and children.  Some of her most beautiful memories of Riebeek are of Mr Hoare and his ‘mossies' and of fellow classmate, Yolande Mbane, always falling asleep in History class. 

               

Nazma Smith (Class of 2007) has a BA in Communication and works at Audi Centre Port Elizabeth as a Web Administrator. Nazma is currently engaged and enjoys doing yoga and anything creative. Some of her beautiful memories of Riebeek are of break times with her friends in the quad and of Mrs Immelman’s English classes.

   

Nicola Ngqeza (Class of 2011) studied Business/Marketing Management at EMC and is an intern at the municipality. Nicola enjoys spending memorable moments with friends and family since they matter the most to her. Nicola mostly remembers her school days as those full of laughter and classroom banter but one of her fondest memories is that of a teacher chasing a girl around the classroom for her cell phone.

       

Zanele Titi (Class of 2012) is studying towards a BSc in Construction Economics. Zanele is part of the recently launched NMMU radio station. Zanele is a frank and open person who has a solution for problems that come her way. Zanele remembers her school days as being actively involved in extra murals, such as drama, choir and debating. Zanele feels that her extra murals equipped her with the vital skills that are needed at university level. She enjoys what she is studying now and the many challenges it brings. 

 

 Mandy-Lee Dawson Brophy (Class of 1989) is a qualified Social Worker, and is lecturing at NMMU. She married Louis Brophy, a Health, Safety and Environmental Coordinator, in 1998 and they have a daughter, Hannah-Kate, 5. At Riebeek, Mandy-Lee learnt that you can achieve any dream if you put your mind to it. She believes that a beautiful childhood is one where you are able to discover the real you, and experience unconditional love. 

 

Angela Cox Nash (Class of 1989) did a secretarial course at Russel Road College. In 2002 she married Tim Nash, a businessman, and they have 2 children, Emma, 8, and Riley, 6. Riebeek taught Angela to work hard and respect others. She misses the midnight feasts and strawberry pavlova enjoyed by all the hostel girls. She believes that a beautiful childhood is one filled with lots of love, happy memories, traditions and laughter.    

                                                                                           

Lauren Gouws Frueholz (Class of 1989) obtained a National Diploma in Tourism from the PE Technikon and works at Rennies Travel in East London. She married Peter Frueholz, a Mechanical Engineer, in 2011 and the couple has a daughter, Abbey, 2. Lauren’s most beautiful memories of her time at Riebeek include break times spent tanning her legs with friends. She believes a beautiful childhood is the grounding for a brilliant adulthood.

                                             

Loren Botten Nel (Class of 1989) obtained a BA Ed in Human Movement Science from UPE and runs her own business called Active Eyes. She married Deon Nel in 1997, and the couple have 2 children: Byron, 11, and Kate, 8. At Riebeek, Loren learnt about commitment, determination and perseverance. She remembers fun times on numerous hockey tours, and at discos and dances. Loren believes that a beautiful childhood is one where children can play until dark.

 

Amy Relling (Class of 2009) studied health and skincare at Total Concept Academy in Port Elizabeth. She received her international diplomas and decided to explore the world by working on cruise ships. She worked abroad for 2 contracts, each 9 months at a time, and has been fortunate enough to visit many different exciting places including Alaska, eastern and western Caribbean, northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Amy has met many different people from a variety of cultures, but has learnt that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and that staying true to yourself, as well as to your roots, maintains your self-worth. Amy has always remembered one of Riebeek’s mottos, “Your attitude determines your altitude” and she has carried this positive mind-set over into her successful career.

 

Liesly Lithauer Taylor (Class of 1989) studied Food Supervision and Business Management at Russel Road College. She married Shawn Taylor, an artisan, in 1992. She is a stay at home mom. She believes a beautiful childhood is based on fun, love, tolerance, respect and understanding

 

Cindy Bester (Class of 1989) attended the South African Police College and is a Warrant Officer. Her most beautiful memories of her time at Riebeek are of times spent on the tennis courts and hockey fields. Cindy believes a beautiful childhood is one where you have a close relationship with your parents.    

 
Diana Vermaak Wilson (Class of 1964) studied Primary Higher Education at the Grahamstown Training College. She worked at the John Graham Primary School in Plumstead and married Richard Wilson, a Civil Engineer. They have 3 children: Ruth, 41, Naomi, 39, and Marina, 38.  Diana has led an adventurous life, living in exotic places such as Shabani, Centenary, Den Haag and Stellenbosch. She is currently residing in Alberta, Canada. She has written a book about her travels, and enjoys line dancing, knitting and reading

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 March 19, 2015
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Nicola McEwan

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