For more than three decades, Cynthia Lategan-Kriel has been a cornerstone of the Stellenbosch Business School (SBS) at Stellenbosch 万博体育官网 (SU). As Programme Coordinator for the MBA, MPhil in Leadership Coaching, and MPhil in Futures Studies, she is one of the longest-serving and most respected staff members within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
Cynthia’s journey began over 30 years ago when she joined the School of Public Leadership as a Personal Assistant to Prof Erwin Schwella. At the time, she was a young mother of two, determined to build a stable, meaningful career. Her dedication not only laid the foundation for her own remarkable professional evolution, but ensured a secure future for her children. Her daughter, a nursery school teacher, is the mother of her 17-year old grandson, while her son holds a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering (cum laude) from SU.
Three years into her career, Cynthia accepted a permanent role at the Business School, a turning point she credits with changing the course of her life. In those formative years, she wore many hats: training reception staff, supporting the finance team, managing operations and stepping in wherever needed. She also served as Personal Assistant to the founding Director of Stellenbosch Business School Executive Development (SBS-ED). “It wasn’t always easy,” she reflects, “but that versatility shaped the person I am today.”
Cynthia went on to hold no fewer than eight different roles at SBS, each one deepening her insight and building her capacity as a leader. Eventually, she found her calling as Programme Coordinator, initially for both modular and full-time MBA cohorts, and later focusing on the modular MBA and MPhil degrees in Leadership Coaching and Futures Studies.
Her hands-on role with students has included everything from coordinating logistics for national study tours to guiding individuals through the rigorous academic journey. “These roles allowed me to grow my understanding of academic programme management and deepen my connection with both students and faculty,” she says.
Alongside her professional growth, Cynthia has consistently invested in her own development. She has completed certificates in Project Management, Coaching, and other programmes that have enhanced her leadership and interpersonal capabilities. “Coaching especially has helped me greatly to understand and support our students,” she notes. “I’ve always believed I was born to lead; not in a traditional sense, but through service, humility, and helping others to shine.”
This philosophy has underpinned her broader contributions as well. As Chair of the Social Impact Committee for five years, she worked to integrate meaningful community engagement into SBS operations. Her professional excellence has been recognised with the prestigious Chancellor’s Award from Stellenbosch 万博体育官网.
Throughout her journey, Cynthia has been shaped by the mentorship of three former SBS Directors. Prof John Powell inspired her with his egalitarian approach and encouragement to pursue her dreams. Prof Piet Naudé’s unwavering commitment to students mirrored her own, and Prof Mark Smith, who encouraged her to take up running, instilled in her the confidence to keep pushing boundaries, both personally and professionally.
Colleagues hold her in the highest esteem. Marna Bothma from the Centre for Academic Administration says, “Cynthia reaches out to others with sincerity and compassion. Her calm presence and unshakable faith have carried many of us through challenging times. She lives out her values with a warm heart and open hands – a true example of leadership.”
Samantha Diedericks, Principal Administrative Officer, adds: “Cynthia is warm, approachable, and inclusive. Though I’m relatively new, she welcomed me without hesitation. She works incredibly hard, listens attentively, and students consistently speak highly of their experience with her.”
Now in her 33rd year at SBS, Cynthia continues to embrace change with energy and grace. “I thrive on challenges and innovation. I love learning something new every day,” she says. She’s particularly proud of how SBS has become more specialised over the years, and how the recognition of women in academic leadership has grown, a change she’s not only witnessed but actively contributed to.
Outside of work, Cynthia finds peace in long walks with her husband, quiet moments by the sea, and dreams of one day riding the long-distance trains of Europe. Her journey is far from over, and her legacy of service and leadership continues to inspire those around her.
“The most rewarding part of my job is the personal interaction with students – helping them navigate challenges, watching them succeed, and walking with them toward graduation. That is my passion.”
