An inspiring woman in leadership: Professor Freda van der Walt, Assistant Dean and incoming Dean of Management Sciences believes in the power of collaboration and the impact it has to uplift one another. “As an Ethics Ambassador, I strive to uphold integrity and empower others to do the same,” Professor van der Walt.

As Women’s Month comes to a close, it is important to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women within our university and society. At the Central University of Technology (CUT), women leaders continue to inspire transformation, drive academic excellence, and mentor the next generation. Among these inspiring figures is Professor Freda van der Walt, who has shared her journey of leadership, resilience, and purpose.

“I am honoured to share my journey with CUT, an institution that has supported me throughout my career and provided countless opportunities for growth as an academic and leader,” says Professor Freda, currently serving as Assistant Dean: Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Management Sciences in Welkom Campus, with an appointment as Dean effective January 2026.

Reflecting on her path, Professor Freda acknowledges the challenges faced as a woman in leadership, noting, “coping with personal and professional demands is a reality many women leaders will recognise. I overcame these challenges through resilience, faith, and the unwavering support of my late parents, family, colleagues, and friends.” She pays tribute to her late parents as her greatest role models, instilling values of hard work, integrity, and compassion, and cites her spiritual leaders at the Christian Revival Church as ongoing sources of guidance and grounding.

Professor Freda expresses deep gratitude for the mentorship and support she has received from colleagues and leaders, highlighting the collective strength and inspiration drawn from women leaders across CUT. “Their leadership reminds me daily of the power of collaboration and the impact we can make when we lift each other,” she reflects.

Among the highlights of her career, Prof. van der Walt participates in the Women in Leadership programmes, mentoring colleagues who have become established academics or managers, guiding students to flourish in their careers, and serving as an Ethics Ambassador. According to Professor Freda, “women leaders bring a vital dimension to higher education. Our traditional roles as mothers and caregivers equipped us to lead with empathy, passion, and inclusion. Our presence enriches leadership and inspires the next generation of women leaders, affirming that their voices and contributions matter.”

Looking back, she shares a message of gratitude and purpose: “My journey is filled with grace, support, faith, and purpose. I strive to lead with integrity, uplift others, stand up for what is right, and contribute meaningfully to the future of higher education.” She concludes with a note of encouragement for women everywhere: “Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness,” Oprah Winfrey.

Through her story, Professor Van der Walt exemplifies how dedication, resilience, and collaborative leadership shape not only individual success but also the broader academic community, making her a true inspiration this Women’s Month and beyond.

Prof. Freda’s career began as an HR Practitioner, before moving into higher education at Vista University and later joining CUT. Driven by a deep passion for understanding people and organisations, she pursued a PhD in Organisational Behaviour at the University of Pretoria, marking the foundation of her academic and leadership journey.

Uploaded: 25 August 2025