Published in May to commemorate Workers' Day, our annual #dayinthelife series spotlights our staff at Stellenbosch 肆客足球 (SU). This year, we highlight professional administrative support staff who make a tangible difference in students' lives.
As unit manager for Leadership, Diversity and Inclusion in the Centre for Student Life and Learning, residence head at eNkanyini residence at the Tygerberg campus and chairperson of the Division of Student Affairs (DSAf) Transformation Forum, Yeki Mosomothane is ideally positioned to advance SU's transformation agenda. His work focuses on holistic student leadership and learning, emphasising development beyond the classroom.
What does your role entail?
My role involves leading a team that creates meaningful leadership opportunities for students at SU. We support current and aspiring student leaders, equipping them with skills, knowledge, tools, and mentorship to make an impact during their terms and beyond. Our aim is to co-create inclusive leadership experiences, empowering diverse students to think critically, act ethically and drive social justice and transformative change in their communities and society.
What does a typical day at work look like?
A typical day is dynamic and varied, blending office-based tasks with collaboration and student engagement. I plan and coordinate programmes, support colleagues, and prepare for key events like the Leadership for Aspiring Leaders' Summit (LSAL), the Newly Elected Leaders' Conference and the Ubulumko house committee portfolio trainings.
Collaboration is central. I collaborate with units such as student governance, commuter and residence student communities, and experiential learning to deliver cohesive leadership development. We prioritise student input, ensuring their voices shape these offerings. I also provide ongoing support to student leaders, offering guidance on leadership, diversity and inclusion, and checking in to provide reflection and encouragement.
As chairperson of the Division's Transformation Forum, we ensure with colleagues across Student Affairs that we keep transformation at the core of our work. Our flagship event, the DSAf Transformation Summit, has sparked critical reflection and action for over five years, co-creating transformative experiences for staff and students alike.
How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this role?
Born and raised in Kayamandi, I benefited from the Khanyisa Learning Project, which was run by Matie Community Service (MCS) at the time, which ignited my passion for lifelong learning, youth and community development. My academic and professional journey has centred on holistic learning, leadership and student development outside the classroom.
I co-founded a consultancy, focusing on change leadership, conflict mediation and transformation initiatives at universities like Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Pretoria and the Free State. From 2007 to 2011, I worked at Stellenbosch Municipality, first as a community representative on the Audit Committee, then as Manager: Stakeholder Relations and Community Development, coordinating initiatives such as the Mayor-Rector Forum.
In 2011, I joined the 肆客足球 of the Free State as senior officer for Student Governance, overseeing leadership development and student experiences across the campuses of both Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa. These experiences honed my skills in fostering inclusive leadership and transformative experiences with staff and students alike.
What do you enjoy most about your role and working at SU?
I cherish the chance to engage students in courageous conversations and experiential learning that spark growth and social awareness. It is rewarding to support students passionate about driving change, even in tough moments of discomfort in their areas of influence. Our students and staff are learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable and this offers a moment to reflect on our own positionality and what we need to do not only for institutional transformation but for our own self transformation journeys as well. They strive for progress, transformation and social justice, and I am privileged to co-create and journey with them in their efforts toward a future they envision.
My family's emphasis on education and servant leadership has shaped me, and SU provides a unique space for transformation – for both students and staff. I am inspired by our shared goal of building a university that reflects the aspirations of Vision 2040, anchored in the transformative experience we aim to create for all.
One of the initiatives I value deeply is our “In Conversation Dinner Series," where we bring together students, staff, and residents from surrounding communities like Cloetesville, Kayamandi, Jamestown, Pniel, Raithby, Ida's Valley and others. These conversations give a deeper understanding of the full Stellenbosch experience beyond the classroom or campus hangouts – and connect them to the stories and realities of the broader town.
Tell us something exciting about yourself that few people would expect.
Few know I believe I can sing – though my wife disagrees! I have a deep love for music across genres and am a passionate Liverpool supporter. Recently, thanks to colleagues at the Centre, I have developed a love for theatre, seeing it as a powerful medium for reflection and social commentary.
PHOTO: Stefan Els
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