Reflecting on this year, it is clear that alumni excelled as ambassadors of USB, helping to build the reputation of the school, and strengthening the links between USB and its stakeholders. Alumni engaged in the USB, USB-ED and IFR networks with pride and dedication, reminiscent of the value of a lifelong relationship.

Congratulations to Dr Shaun Vorster, Alumnus of the Year Dr Shaun Vorster received the USB Alumnus of the Year Award at the USB-Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation Leadership Lecture at the One & Only Hotel in Cape Town on 31 October. We congratulate Shaun as a worthy recipient of this award and wish him well as Vice-President: Business Integration and Activations of EXPO 2020 Dubai.

Alumni serve as ambassadors and corporate partners at our accreditations USB was recently assessed by the accreditation body EQUIS. We are proud to be one of the three business schools on the African continent bearing the Triple Crown of international accreditations – AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. In September, alumni engaged with the EQUIS peer review panel on the value of being part of this association. Congratulations to everyone involved on the positive outcome of EQUIS. In 2020, USB will apply for AABS accreditation from the Association of African Business Schools for the first time.

Alumni help to give effect to the new USB Strategy 2019-2021 The school’s new vision says: USB is globally recognised as a source of value for a better world. Alumni all over the world contribute to this through responsible leadership that positively impacts society. USB endeavours to exceed stakeholder expectations and to be a resource partner for our alumni. In 2019, the USB Alumni Association’s executive committee, chapter committees and alumni represented the School at a range of activities as industry speakers, panel discussion members and guest lecturers. Alumni hosted international incoming groups, sponsored Leader’s Angles and chapter events, and provided awards for the Student Top Achievers. USB created opportunities for alumni to participate in more than 50 speaker, career and networking events across Africa during 2019. What’s more, alumni testimonials help to grow student numbers and also the number of employers employing our graduates.

On behalf of the USB Alumni Association Exco, I would like to thank our alumni for contributing to the proud legacy of the Business School and for their participation in the USB Alumni Association. We look forward to an inspiring 2020.

Wishing you all a blessed, peaceful and joyous festive season and a meaningful 2020.

Yours sincerely,
Prof Prieur du Plessis
President: USB Alumni Association