Manifesto for House Kestell Leadership
Comfortable with Discomfort, Certain with Uncertainty
Pedagogy: "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is
about taking care of those in your charge." — Simon Sinek
Dear Kestellians,
Standing before you today as a candidate for the position of
Prime, Strategies and Values or Vice-Prime&Discipline of
House Kestell, I am filled with a profound sense of purpose
and commitment. The opportunity to lead and serve within
this incredible community is not just a role—it's a calling. I
am driven by the belief that our house can and should be a beacon of growth, resilience, and
unity as we move forward together, aligned with the UFS Vision130.
From the moment I first set foot on the University of the Free State campus, House Kestell has
been my home. My journey, leading as Corridor Prime in 2022 to serving as the RC Academic
Portfolio holder has been a testament to my unwavering dedication to our house's success. Each
role I've held has been an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to contribute meaningfully to our
collective experience.
As RC Academics, I championed initiatives that uplifted and empowered our members. I
introduced a platform where our readers and writers could share their voices, fostering a sense
of belonging and creative expression. I ensured that our study environment was not only
conducive to academic excellence but also supportive of each individual's unique journey.
Recognizing the critical importance of mental health, I launched programs that offered
motivation and care during times of challenge. These experiences have not only deepened my
commitment to our house but have also shaped my vision for its future.
My vision for House Kestell is one that embraces the challenges and uncertainties of our time,
turning them into opportunities for growth and innovation. I see our house as a microcosm of
the larger university, where the role of residences is reimagined to foster a community that is
inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking.
As Prime or Vice Prime, my primary goal will be to cultivate a culture of empowerment, where
each member of House Kestell feels supported, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
This begins with a commitment to discipline, not as a means of control, but as a framework for
respect and mutual understanding. By establishing clear guidelines and fostering an
environment of constructive dialogue, we will create a space where everyone feels safe to
express themselves and grow.
Moreover, I am passionate about enhancing the personal and collective growth of our house
members. My leadership will focus on creating opportunities for development, encouraging
open communication, and building a supportive culture that celebrates our diversity and
strengths. Together, we will navigate the complexities of our time with courage and resilience,
always striving to be "comfortable with discomfort" and "certain with uncertainty Why should you trust me to lead House Kestell? Because I have walked the path you are on. I
have faced the same challenges, celebrated the same victories, and learned from the same
experiences. My leadership is rooted in service—service to you, my fellow Kestellians. The
initiatives I have spearheaded, from academic support to creative expression, are a reflection
of my commitment to your success and well-being. I am here to listen, to act, and to ensure
that every voice in House Kestell is heard and respected.
I recognize that leading House Kestell into a new era requires more than just a commitment to
the status quo; it requires a bold vision and the courage to embrace change. This is where my
experience and passion will make a difference. I intend to introduce initiatives that align with
the university's Vision130, ensuring that our house not only keeps pace with the times but also
sets the standard for excellence in residence life.
With a proven track record of leadership and a deep understanding of our house's unique
dynamics, I am ready to lead House Kestell into the future. Whether as Prime or Vice Prime, I
will dedicate myself to fostering a community where unity, respect, and growth are not just
ideals but lived experiences.
In conclusion, I am honoured by the opportunity to serve as your Prime or Vice Prime. I am
committed to leading with compassion, integrity, and resilience, ensuring that House Kestell
continues to thrive as a supportive and empowering community. Together, we will build a
stronger, more united house.
"Leadership is about service, and I am here to serve each and every one of you with
dedication and heart."
Thank you for your trust and support.
1 answer
Here are 30 questions based on the manifesto for House Kestell leadership:
What motivated you to run for the position of Prime or Vice Prime of House Kestell?
How do you define leadership in the context of House Kestell?
Can you elaborate on what "comfortable with discomfort" means to you in a leadership role?
How will you embody Simon Sinek’s quote about leadership in your daily tasks?
What specific initiatives do you plan to introduce that align with the UFS Vision130?
In your experience as Corridor Prime and RC Academic Portfolio holder, what was your most significant learning moment?
How do you plan to cultivate a culture of empowerment within House Kestell?
What steps will you take to ensure that every member feels valued in House Kestell?
How do you intend to create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity?
Can you provide examples of how you have previously addressed mental health concerns among house members?
What role do you see discipline playing in your leadership approach?
How will you encourage constructive dialogue among members of House Kestell?
Can you describe a challenging situation you faced as a leader and how you overcame it?
What do you believe are the most critical areas for personal and collective growth within the house?
How do you plan to ensure that academic support continues to flourish in House Kestell?
What initiatives do you foresee as particularly beneficial for enhancing creative expression?
How will you involve house members in decision-making processes?
What strategies do you have for fostering open communication within the house?
How can House Kestell support members who may struggle with uncertainties in their academic and personal lives?
What do you consider the greatest strengths of House Kestell currently?
How do you envision navigating challenges that arise within the house?
What are your long-term goals for House Kestell, and how do you plan to achieve them?
How will your leadership style adapt to the diverse needs of house members?
What resources do you believe are essential for maintaining a conducive study environment?
How can the house better facilitate creative outlets for its members?
How do you plan to maintain motivation and morale during challenging times?
What measures do you intend to implement to ensure transparency in your decision-making processes?
How will you work to inspire and motivate your fellow Kestellians?
Can you discuss any leadership role models that influence your approach?
What is your message to those who may be skeptical of your leadership vision?
These questions aim to delve deeper into the manifesto's themes of leadership, community, and empowerment while encouraging critical thinking and valuable discussions.
