Servant leadership on display in a world in desperate need of it

On 20 November 2020, the St Stithians community finally got an opportunity to induct their new Rector, Celeste Gilardi who was assumed the role on 1 May – indeed a tumultuous time in the world, and one filled with opportunities and hope amid the fear and anger so many felt – and still experience.

While Covid delayed the induction, and restrictions meant only a few could attend, the service (led by Rev Michel Hansrod, General Secretary of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa) can be viewed below:

CN&CO’s founding partner Carel Nolte is the chairperson of St Stithians College Council and counts himself most lucky to serve alongside Celeste and so many other leaders at this leading educational institution. Carel’s main role is to work with and for Celeste as she leads the eight schools that make up the College. Carel often says that in leading – especially as a non-executive chairman – one ‘supports” “challenges” “guides” “influences” and “gets out of the way”! With Celeste as rector, that is an easy job description no doubt.

#SaintsExcellence; One&All; Making a World of Difference; To whom much is given, much is expected; Honour God, Honour Others, Honour Self are just some of the themes Celeste and her team drive to ensure Saints not only has a positive impact on the 2 700 children who attend the college, but also far, far broader into the community and the world at large.

2021 is Carel’s 30th school reunion. Reflecting on his time at Saints, and his often expressed view that teaching is one of the most vital professions needed in the world, Carel says: “I am hugely inspired by Celeste and her team and am daily reminded by the many acts of brilliance by the students, parents, alumni and staff, that Saints is privileged to be able to contribute so much, to so many.”

Click on the image below to download the induction brochure:

For info on St Stithians’ newest innovation, the St Stithians Online School in partnership with Valenture (founded by Get Smarter co-founder Robert Paddock) click here.