Durban University of Technology (DUT) approved the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework. The five values are identified as transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. The principles espoused are fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT’s Communications team, Waheeda Peters spoke to Ronelle Lyson, Alumni Relations Coordinator in the in the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit.

   Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT? 

A: “I currently work in the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit as the Alumni Relations Coordinator.”

 Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?   

A:  “I have been with DUT now for three years.”

Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?  

A: “For me it will be accountability. I believe that accountability builds credibility as you take responsibility for your actions and others then have confidence in your word. It also builds your reputation of being an ethical and just person. If we look at all the living values and principles, it all comes down to being accountable and the rest will follow.”

Q: What are your views on the new DUT tagline: Creative. Distinctive. Impactful.   

A: “The tagline focuses on DUT’s forward-thinking and the vision that the university has. It suggests that the DUT experience is committed to creative and innovative thinking which will make a positive impact.”

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?   

A: “To integrate the Living Values Framework in all initiatives, campaigns, and events that I work on. Also keeping updated with all the training and workshops that occur regarding the Living Values. For the type of role I have I would also keep alumni and external stakeholders engaged about the Living Values Framework and communicating efficiently about this.”

Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?

A: “What may surprise people is that I can cook and be domesticated when I want to.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?   

A: “The ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework can provide DUT with an all-inclusive vision to align its activities and initiatives with these values and principals. DUT can also be a contributor to constructive social and cultural impact while also solidifying its own institutional identity and brand.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?   

A: “Spare time? What is that? Lol! I hardly have any spare time as I am furthering my studies currently however, I am a foodie so when I do get a chance then my partner and I visit somewhere new to eat!”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?   

A: “By following the ENVISION2030 map and maintaining the passion that I have for my work. Also inspiring and upskilling those around me to understand the mission and vision of the university and the unit I work in. Everything we do small or big creates an impact with indirectly or directly and I believe that by encompassing the values and principles in everything I do then my impact at DUT will be a positive one.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?   

A: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do-Steve Jobs.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?   

A: “My future goals would be career advancement into a leadership role as well as playing a meaningful mentorship role. I am also looking forward to the day in the future when I achieve my PhD (quite a few years from now but I will get there).”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be? 

A: “A dream holiday-switched off from the outside world!”