On 15 May, the Department of Historical and Heritage Studies hosted its annual awards ceremony, a distinguished event dedicated to recognising academic excellence. This year’s theme, “On the Shoulders of Giants”, emphasised the importance of building upon the knowledge and achievements of those who came before us.
Karina Sevenhuysen, the event’s facilitator, explained the theme’s origins. The concept dates back to the 12th century and is attributed to Bernard of Chartres, as noted by John of Salisbury. However, it gained widespread recognition through a 1675 letter by Sir Isaac Newton, in which he wrote, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” This theme perfectly encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between the past and present, making it a fitting choice for the history department’s celebration.
The ceremony aimed to honour the department’s top achievers, and lecturers expressed their delight in mentoring such bright students. Head of department Prof. Karen Harris proudly proclaimed her affiliation with one of the country’s leading history departments, which is also a pioneer in tourism. She emphasised the department’s nurturing and supportive environment, which contributes significantly to its success.
Jane Mampane, the faculty’s PA and a member of the deanery, delivered a statement expressing her honour in attending the prestigious event. She highlighted the students’ hard work and dedication, noting how their efforts help extend the knowledge shared by their professors. Although the dean could not attend, he sent his heartfelt congratulations, underscoring the event’s significance.
The awards included categories such as Outstanding Performance in Heritage and Cultural Tourism, Best Tourist Guide for Campus Tours, and Outstanding Performance in History. Each recipient shared their personal inspirations, or “giants”, who contributed to their success.
One notable recipient, Marli Rheeder, expressed deep gratitude to the entire department, her supportive family, and the giants upon whose shoulders she stands. She received three awards, including the Book Prize for Best Research Report in Heritage and Cultural Tourism at Honours level, as well as a certificate for Outstanding Performance in Heritage and Cultural Tourism at the Honours level. Rheeder is now employed at a top company in Bryanston.
Another standout, Gemma Mills, received the Van Schaik Publishers Award and the Johan Bergh Historia Award for Outstanding Performance in History, as well as a certificate for outstanding achievements in history across all three undergraduate years. Mills honoured her mother as her giant, acknowledging her mother’s sacrifice, love and unwavering support as pivotal to her accomplishments.
A touching moment came from Brenda Labuschagne, who dedicated her success to fellow recipient Mzingaye Hlabano, recognising his hard work and dedication. Labuschagne was awarded for her contributions to community-based tourism, while Hlabano received accolades for his achievements in cultural tourism at third-year level.
The Department of Historical and Heritage Studies’ annual awards ceremony is a testament to the enduring legacy of knowledge and inspiration. Through the theme of “On the Shoulders of Giants”, the event celebrated academic achievement while highlighting the profound impact of those who came before us. Each award not only marks individual triumphs but also showcases the collective strength of a community dedicated to preserving and understanding our shared history. This ceremony reminds us that we stand taller together, supported by the giants whose shoulders we gratefully occupy.
Jason Visser