Madinawe, who holds a Diploma in Agriculture and is a second year Bachelor of Arts student, notes that students are currently feeling overwhelmed and demotivated due to having to learn online, which is as a result of the lockdown and COVID-19. We spoke to him about his tenure, leadership, and how the SRC plans to address students’ concerns.
How do you plan to lead the SRC and the students on your new journey?
My plan is to lead, develop and implement. This is a comprehensive strategy that builds and expands upon the existing successes of the University. All of this will be done in collaboration with the governing authority, staff, students, and alumni.
As the president, I will serve as a guiding light and motivator in the achievement of institutional goals that will enhance the distinctive reputation and character of the university in a highly competitive environment.
Our aim is to recognise as many student societies as possible to allow for more student involvement. We are going to make sure that we incorporate well planned events that comply with COVID-19 Regulations. We also plan to host semester and annual sports events.
What do you understand as ethical behaviour?
I believe that ethical behaviour starts at the top with the leaders in an organisation or in any structure where leadership is concerned – whether they are directors, governors, associates, or the chief executive.
I need to lead by example. It can’t be one rule for me as the president and another for the rest of my collective. I will emphasise maximum discipline; working very transparently will assist in ensuring that those in the leadership do their duties on time and are able to help one another in executing specific tasks.
Tell us more about yourself.
As a senior student and leader, I am very focused on developing other students. I have a strong personality and am very self-aware; I prioritize personal development. As such, my journey has been very easy because I entered the leadership space knowing exactly who I am, and who my students are. I also knew that, no matter what, not everyone was going to support me, regardless of my abilities, and I am okay with that.
By developing a strong attitude and self-confidence, I was able to overcome obstacles because I believe that I am one of the special leaders, one who encourages strategic thinking, innovation, action, and I practice effective cross-cultural communication.
What makes a successful leader?
I believe that leadership is the process whereby someone is able to motivate and inspire others to follow them. Students are hungry for solid leadership to help them thrive. Successful leaders are defined by the behaviours they exhibit as they lead. These behaviours determine if followers are motivated and inspired by their leaders, or merely follow because they are compelled to.
Leadership traits are an integral part of how a leader is perceived and how they operate. Because leadership behaviour is so important, it is widely studied and discussed.
A good leader has to make sure that they champion 80% of the issues and promises that they have included in their manifesto, including the issues that will inevitably arise along the way. All of this, I believe, makes a successful SRC leader.
Which UMP values do you align yourself with the most?
One of my favourite values are Excellence and Integrity because I believe that a great leader must uphold the highest standards of excellence in all their actions, functions and services.
A great leader possesses a clear vision, is courageous, has integrity, honesty, and humility. Lastly, a great leader helps people reach their goals, is not afraid to work with people who might be better than themselves, and takes pride in the accomplishments of those they help.
@ Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures Supplied.