Amanda Robbertse
Amanda firmly believes in living on the edge and therefore deserves a spot in the sun! Always open to positive criticism and continuously willing to improve on existing skills. Amanda is her own enthusiastic person with an incredible character and outgoing personality. Being outspoken, talkative and friendly, as well as easy to befriend, reliable and trustworthy, Amanda is a natural assent to the Aleit Academy family. 'I thoroughly enjoy a challenge and am ambitious, argumentative in a positive way and imaginative. In an ideal world I'd like the freedom to have control over my work with exciting challenges and development opportunities.' she says. Amanda likes to dream big and she perseveres until she reaches her goals. Her loyalty and social interaction with peers makes her a good listener and active participant. Amanda is in complete control of her life, content by placing great faith in God.
Bianca Leibbrandt
Bianca is a young, independent woman determined to reach her goals in life. Fresh out of Stellenberg High School, she is a vibrant and compassionate individual. Bianca was born in Durban but moved to Cape Town at age 4 so she says she is actually an 'all-out' Capetonian and furthermore, is proudly South African. Growing up in a innovative environment she always knew that she wanted to establish a career that allowed her to express her creativity someday. Working with people is something Bianca thrives on and is part of the reason why she chose event management as her career path. The numerous international school choir competitions she often participated in captured her imagination and Bianca often considered the complexity of the 'behind-the-scenes' logistics that goes into organizing such impressive events. When Bianca stumbled across The Aleit Academy it was love at first sight. 'One day I hope to own a guest house where I can host intimate functions. My family, friends and my career are all equally important to me and this is an ideal platform to care for all three!" says Bianca.
Chelsea Evans
Fun-loving, energetic and outgoing best sums up Chelsea! After matriculating in 2009 and achieving an intensive diploma in professional cookery in 2010, Chelsea decided that she missed interacting with people. Looking for something that could combine everything she loved - creativity, entertaining and making people's dreams come true – she decided that organising events was the way forward. 'It's a bit of an African love affair really. Coming from Zimbabwe, living in Mozambique and studying in South Africa. Enrolling in the Aleit Academy was simply crossing another frontier – approaching the unknown with huge amounts of excitement!' she says enthusiastically. Chelsea plans to realize her love of gratifying people by becoming part of The Aleit Academy. Her ability to pay attention to the finest detail with a positive attitude motivates those surrounding her. 'My aspiration to be the best in everything I do and to make as many people happy in a single day, makes event management my forte', she says. Chelsea lives life completely, honestly and compassionately - with a healthy dose of reality, mixed with a creative imagination. Her motto – 'anything is possible if you set your mind to it.' A perfect Aleit Academy candidate!
Chelsea Warren-Stone
Chelsea hails from East London and is famous for her contagious laugh and reassuring smile! In 2010, Chelsea relocated to Stellenbosch where she began waitressing and thereafter hostessing at a top Wine Estate - learning all about five star service along the way. 'What a pleasure it is to be surrounded by such interesting people. I can only imagine how incredible it is to be the person who satisfies a bride's lifelong dream. I really want that honour!' says Chelsea. She is exceptionally creative and was named a finalist at a National Fashion Design competition in 2009. Her flare for business was also recognised when her team won the 2009 National J.S.E. competition. Admired for her selflessness, Chelsea is already known for combining business with the excitement of creating new ideas.
Georgina Matthews
Georgina was born in Johannesburg, but grew up on a farm in the Midlands of KwaZulu Natal. She was brought up in a large family where food was always the centre of every occasion. From a young age she always knew that she wanted to be surrounded by interesting people, exceptional fashion and gourmet food. This is what sparked her enthusiasm to be a part of The Aleit Academy. Georgina is an easy-going person, very approachable and easy to talk to. After nine years of boarding school, Georgina is keen to begin a new chapter of her life and is excited to learn and to share new experiences with diverse people every day. Georgina says, 'Although it is difficult to be so far from home I feel so privileged to be here at The Aleit Academy. I know that I am learning from the best and nothing will stand in the way of me and my aspirations!
Hanje Niehaus
Hanje was born in the Mother City and has been exposed to a creative environment from an early age. This included organizing all of her own themed birthday parties! She realized that she had a strong attraction to organizing events while she was preparing the food for her families' New Year's Eve Party and joining The Aleit Academy has given her a strong platform to pursue this dream. Hanje has assisted in organizing the prestigious annual Paarl Gymnasium Mothers and Daughters evening, handling everything from the table décor to the menu. Hanje has well-developed interpersonal skills; her warm and caring yet strong personality helps her to communicate well with everyone she encounters. She is more than willing to go the extra mile! Hanje has a zest for spoiling others does so with distinctive charm. 'Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow. Every job is a self portrait of the person who did it . . . autograph your work with excellence.' says Hanje.
Jeanne-Mari De Boer
Jeanne-Mari hails from the Jacaranda city - Pretoria. She has had a keen interest in food since the age of seven which is when her grandmother presented her with her first recipe book. She later attended Hendrik Verwoerd High School, known for being one of the first institutions to offer hotel and catering as a subject and this was something at which she excelled. Jeanne-Mari decided to travel abroad after matriculating, however returned to South Africa and commenced her career in hospitality as an assistant manager at a popular pancake house in Pretoria. Little did she know that one of the patrons would later become her husband and that this man would lead her to luscious Ireland. It was here that she succeeded in establishing and developing an artisan café that is now listed in the Irish Goodyear Guide. Joining the Aleit Academy is the fulfilment of a long term vision! 'I have a wonderful imagination and want to make people's dreams a reality. I want to be able to make the impossible possible! I am so proud to be learning from the Master himself!' says Jeanne-Mari.
Jessica Hart
Jessica was born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal. After gaining a Bachelors degree in Political Science and Psychology, she packed up her life and travelled to London where she explored different avenues in the work sector. Whilst overseas, Jessica found her niche doing event coordination for a financial training company. After returning to South Africa, Jessica expanded her studies adding Media as a 3rd major to her degree before turning her focus towards The Aleit Academy. Jessica's vivacious personality and fervour for food and wine has allowed her to find a happy role at The Aleit Academy where she is able to create aesthetically pleasing events that leave both guests and hosts enchanted. 'So often people choose quantity over quality and are always left wanting. At The Aleit Academy I feel neither is ever overlooked.' says Jessica.
Johann van der Merwe
Johann spent his childhood in a small town near Namaqualand before he was put on a bus to the bustling Mother City. With only his suitcase, a boiled egg and a frikkadel in hand, Johann went on to graduate from the Institute for Hospitality Training with an Advanced Diploma in Hotel Management. Since his graduation, Johann has been working for various four and five star establishments in the Metropolitan area. Johann decided to further develop his passion for the industry by joining The Aleit Academy. He believes that you need to be trained by the best to become the best. Johann is a bold, extroverted being and gains energy from his interaction with people. He is dedicated to his work and enjoys a challenge. 'It is not the work you deliver that makes a difference, but rather the amount of effort and love that you put into it that will set you apart from the rest.', says Johann.
Kate Armstrong
Kate Armstrong was born and raised on the Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast. She grew up amidst a close and loving family surrounded by her siblings and cousins which has resulted in her kind and compassionate nature. She excelled at junior school and was awarded the Good-Fellowship Trophy - not only for her good-fellowship but also for her humility, kindness and compassion. She was also the first pupil to receive the 3 "R's" certificate - Rights, Respect and Responsibility. She completed her high school education at St Anne's College in Hilton where she was a popular student loved by her peers and teachers alike. Kate is a sports enthusiast and is known for her excellent sportsmanship. She is a young lady with unquestionable integrity and values, who goes about her work in a quiet and loyal manner. Kate is responsible, has a sound work ethic and a positive outlook which will take her far in life.
Katherine Merrick
Katherine, born and bred in Durban, knew that the events and hospitality industry was for her even before she had matriculated! Her outgoing, social, and bubbly personality brings positive energy to any situation whilst her organizational skills turn problems into challenges! With flair for the creative side of life, Katherine has always dreamt of a career which brings variety to her daily life. 'I need a career that is diverse and creative to keep me stimulated.' Having heard about The Aleit Academy, she realised that every skill and technique required for the events industry could be attained at this institution. 'This made me feel extremely inspired and positive about the future.' says Katherine. With each new day at The Aleit Academy, this mature, diligent and positive young lady strives to become further motivated and a real asset to any institution.
Katja Laborn
Namibian born Katja Laborn, is a patriotic, nature loving person. Not only is she loyal to the people in her life, but she is also extremely dedicated towards her work. In the past years Katja has been involved in scholastic events which has helped her realise where her strengths lie. Creative versatility, initiation and team work are traits that come naturally to Katja and she has always put tremendous effort and creativity into assigned projects. She distinguishes herself as a socially orientated person. 'Family and friends are one of the most important aspects of my life!' says Katja. She entered events co-ordination because she is passionate about creating memorable occasions and therefore opted to enrol at the most prestigious institution in this field - The Aleit Academy.
Kimberley Glynn
Kimberley has always enjoyed organising special occasions which included assisting with school functions and the decor for the grade twelve Ball. Her appreciation of everything beautiful and her eye for detail stood her in good stead as she managed to design the the dress that won a fashion extravaganza during her formative years. Her culinary appreciation was inspired from working part time at La Patisserie, a French bakery in George. Her interest in cooking was further explored by partaking in a Thai cooking course whilst holidaying in Thailand. Travels abroad have enabled her confidence, friendliness and sincerity to be her most shining qualities. Event planning is what her heart desires. 'To enrol at The Aleit Academy was a dream come true', she says. Being practical, down to earth and approachable will be assets that one day enables her to deliver a perfect event.
Lario Mostert
Lario Mostert started 2011 studying at The Aleit Academy – fresh from matriculating at Bloemhof High School. She is someone who loves to work with people and always executes her work to the best of her ability. Lario is an optimistic individual, seeing most situations in a positive light and enjoys facing challenges head on. Lario is thoroughly enjoying her time at The Aleit Academy and wants to follow in the companies influential footsteps by becoming a successful event and wedding coordinator. She believes that if you set off in the right direction it is far easier to achieve all your goals. Lario states; 'This is a dream of mine and I know that I have made the right decision by choosing The Aleit Academy and this career.' Lario endures herself to her lecturers and peers alike, being organized by nature and always ready with a smile on her face. Her free time is most often spent with family and friends – and in fact nothing pleases her more. She is always up for a challenge and wants to assist people in having the fairytale wedding they've always dreamed of.'
Leoni Kotze
Leoni was born in Johannesburg and after moving around for a while, stayed in Pretoria until her final year of High School. Once her studies were complete, Leoni relocated to Stellenbosch to study Tourism. While completing this course, she had the opportunity to gain experience in event management. This ignited a spark and Leoni found herself craving more exposure to this industry. 'Being chosen as one of the few students to attend The Aleit Academy is a dream come true.' says Leoni. She believes that once you are doing what you love, success comes naturally. Being an approachable and kind-hearted young woman as well as an incurable romantic, Leoni firmly believes that this is the industry where she will be most successful. Leoni takes great pleasure in bringing people together for a perfect moment or occasion - however long it may last. A minute of perfection is better than a day of mediocrity!
Mariska Viljoen
Mariska Viljoen is a down to earth, small town girl who matriculated in 2009. She is seen as a fun-loving extrovert who enjoys the beautiful things in life. During her school years, Mariska showed strong leadership skills and believes that this will help with her career. 'I chose The Aleit Academy because I believe that in order to be the best, you have to learn from the best.' says Mariska. In 2010 she worked at a Lodge and this was where she realised the event industry was her forte. 'During the time I was working, I learned that long hours and hard work are part and parcel of this industry. I know that with my love for people and my honest determination, I can be as successful as I want to be.' Mariska is determined to reach for the stars!
Marlene de Villiers
Marlene is a small town farm girl coming all the way from De Doorns in the beautiful Hexriver valley. After finishing her grade twelve year in 2010 at Paarl Girls High, Marlene was keen to explore her options. With her strong, hardworking personality, she always goes that extra mile to ensure that the people around her will not merely be happy with the result, but instead they should be blown away. Marlene knew from an early age what she wanted to do with her life and when she found The Aleit Academy everything fell into place. With help from Aleit, Marlene is on a fast track to success. Marlene believes that she is truly blessed by our loving Jesus and knows that she will be working toward the goal of a life-time. From pre-school her mother always maintained the motto - 'Carpe Diem' - and from this Marlene draws strength, hope and inspiration.
Mirri Visser
Mirri completed school in 2008. Thereafter she decided to commence her studies enrolling for a B.Comm Management Sciences Degree. She spent 2 years at the University of Stellenbosch gaining valuable experience and towards the end of her second year she decided to look for a career that would allow her more freedom through creativity and the ability to combine management skills with her degree. After a lot of searching for ''the perfect fit' with regards to studying and practical experience, Mirri came across The Aleit Academy and is now eager to commence her first year studies. Mirri is a loyal, hard working and conscientious person who enjoys being in a colourful and inspired environment. As a result she is very drawn to the vibrant events management industry and in particular The Aleit Group. Mirri looks forward to an exciting journey whilst at The Aleit Academy and to broadening her horizons in a multitude of different fields throughout this very unique course.
Nicolette Basson
Nicolette was raised by a family that are not only passionate about the hospitality industry but who are constantly entertaining. She clearly inherited the family genes, visible through her lively spirit and great love of people. Nicolette chose The Aleit Academy because she feels that this is where she belongs and cannot imagine herself being part of any other tertiary institution. Nicolette has had the privilege of planning and organising events from a young age as she was part of her school Social Committee. In the venue on her parents' farm just outside of Darling, Nicolette also got the opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade which furthered her enthusiasm for the industry. 'Doing something for others like organising an event, even if it is just a small birthday party, makes me happy. Its better than retail therapy!' laughs Nicolette. She truly lives for the industry and the people – two very important factors that, when you put them together they can only promise success.
Natasja le Roux
With a degree in Financial Management at the University of Stellenbosch, Natasja worked in Pretoria before deciding to make a dramatic change by starting her studies at The Aleit Academy. She is superb at multi-tasking and exceptionally flexible with an uncanny ability to assess, sum up and connect to people in minutes. Natasja describes herself as 'unstoppable' and 'born to execute the most amazing results'. She enjoys being social and brings a sense of high energy to her everyday tasks. 'The Aleit Group's commitment to excellence and professionalism is what initially got me interested.' says Natasja. Natasja's weaknesses are: style magazines, premier wines – preferably red, romance and pink Baberton daisies. She believes that it is important to surround oneself with inspiring, positive people and to live a healthy life. Natasja's recognized talent for art and perfect organization is the result of an inner drive to bring forth excellence, order and beauty to corporate events and weddings.
Natja Maas
Natja is energetic and enthusiastic about her goals in life. Born with an innovative eye - Natja will always explore the latest trends and with interior decorating being a keen interest and natural skill this is bound to be a natural success. Natja is a dynamic and extremely hard working young woman. Delivering the best is what she ultimately strives towards. She joined The Aleit Academy, knowing that they are unrivalled in the industry and that being exceptional is their only pursuit. 'I aspire to become one of the best Coordinators in the Corporate arena representing a company like The Aleit Group globally. With the help of The Aleit Academy, I look forward to revolutionise the events industry even more.' says Natja. She is a generous people's person who is also a devoted team player. With her goals clearly set out before her, Natja does not go unnoticed.
Rouxnette Roberts
Soft hearted yet strong minded – Rouxnette is a determined young woman. After matriculating in 2010, Rouxnette left her home town Springs, to become a part of The Aleit Academy. 'This has always been a dream of mine, I feel so privileged to call myself a student of Aleit's.' says Rouxnette. She is always open for a challenge and is an extremely competitive person, believing that she can use these qualities to her advantage. People know Rouxnette for her kindness and always being available to lend a hand. But pressure is the one thing she handles the best. Rouxnette succeeds in everything she sets her mind to and admits that she cannot stand disappointing anyone. She also has a reputation for being a trustworthy young lady. Rouxnette works hard and plans to 'give it her all' so that she becomes a top event coordinator.
Theresa Cerrai
Having just matriculated, Theresa's youthful, fresh and unmarred spirit allows her vision to flourish. Her ambitious and enthusiastic character will help her to achieve the highest standards this industry upholds. Theresa is a naturally composed individual and this enables her to handle any situation in a graceful and mature manner. Her disposition leaves the people around her at ease and this in turn will assist her in easily winning over a client's trust and loyalty. Although quiet by nature, her determination and willpower allow her to excel at whatever task she is presented with. Her morality and integrity aid her in evaluating individual situations making her a credit to any company. Theresa is a well presented, well mannered young lady who is eager to embark on this new chapter of her life.
Victoria Franck
Born in Johannesburg, Victoria started her life as a typical city girl. In her teens, she exchanged her street-wise life for the sandy shores of Jeffreys Bay. After matriculating in 2008, Victoria spent two years discovering her love for all things beautiful working alongside an interior decorator and successfully planning and executing various events. When asked about her enrolment at The Aleit Academy, Victoria says: "I am here to fine-tune my skills and let my creativity flourish. With such amazing and exquisitely chic headquarters, how can I fail?' Yearning for the city buzz she was once accustomed to, she feels that her move to the Mother City has satisfied that. She is a very open-minded, positive and hard working young woman, ensuring she excels at every task she tackles. Being young and immensely creative, she can adapt to any situation. With large doses of initiative and a keen attention to detail, she will be an asset to whomever she assists in the field. Her hands-on experience - having often being thrown into the deep end - has made her very business-minded. Combine this with the tuition she will receive at The Aleit Academy and it's not hard to see that the world will be her oyster…
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