The event, held under the theme "Grounded in Excellence," brought together staff and students to celebrate their contributions to UMP and to society.
In her address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso reflected on the University's journey and encouraged the community to uphold its founding values.
"We must continue cultivating the habit of excellence and embedding it in all that we do," she said. "Let us celebrate our differences rather than be threatened by them, and let us take care of our mental health."
Professor Mayekiso highlighted the progress of women at UMP, pointing to visible female leadership, rising graduation rates, and a growing presence in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. She also recognised the role of colleagues and staff in building a culture of resilience and integrity.
UMP Women were applauded for building a culture of resilience and integrity.
"Over the past decade, we have witnessed the empowerment of female academics, support staff, and students. Together we have created role models who inspire the next generation," she noted. "The journey of excellence must continue long after we leave this platform."
Delivering her keynote address, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali Martha Mabhena, addressed the gathering on the progress and challenges facing women in South Africa today, calling for united efforts against gender-based violence, femicide, and human trafficking – issues that continue to affect women and girls disproportionately.
"Predators are not always strangers. We must remain vigilant, take note of where our children are, what they are doing, and be mindful of their bodies," she cautioned. "We must pick up the spears that men were supposed to defend us with, and use them to protect ourselves."
She urged women to rise above adversity and work towards empowerment and equality.
"Let us glow and be beaming lights in our families, workplaces, and communities. Let us walk with our heads held high, with no shame and no fear. Together, we can build a beautiful and prosperous future."
The UMP Women's Breakfast was held at Siyabuswa and Mbombela campuses.
The Queen closed with a call for collective strength: "A strong woman stands up for herself, but a stronger woman stands up for us all."
The celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving Ceremony in recognition of Professor Mayekiso's leadership. Faculties and schools across UMP delivered messages of gratitude and presented gifts as tokens of appreciation. Speakers commended her for leading with vision, empathy, and resilience, and for embedding a culture of excellence across the institution.
"You have been more than a leader; you have been a source of strength and inspiration," one faculty representative shared. "Your legacy will live on in the lives you have touched and the values you have instilled in our institution."
Reflecting on her tenure, Professor Mayekiso expressed her gratitude for the support she had received as Vice-Chancellor. "It has been an honour to serve this University. I leave knowing that UMP is firmly grounded in excellence and that its future is bright. Let us continue to work together, to inspire, and to build an institution that remains a beacon of hope and possibility," she said.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by CL Photography and Kay Media Production. Copyright @UMP