Congratulations are in order, as coach of the South African national women’s team, has had a change in title to now officially becoming Doctor Desiree Ellis.
The Bayana Banyana mentor was conferred an honorary Doctorate by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).
The ceremony took place at CPUT’s Belville campus this past Thursday.
Talking to the podium Desiree dedicated her degree to those who just like her, come from challenging circumstances, but believed in the power of sport to propel them going forward.
She added that individuals usually stand out when the team does well, adding that she now finds herself fortunate to be honoured as a result of her team’s outstanding performances.
We celebrate you Dr Desiree Ellis! Today, @Banyana_Banyana coach @descaptain, who also captained and represented our national team as a player with distinction, was awarded an honorary doctorate at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology @CPUT #LiveTheImpossible pic.twitter.com/KbC4cp45xY
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) April 25, 2024
She later shifted her attention to fellow female graduates encouraging them to break through male-dominated spheres.
“At the end of the day, if you are qualified then that space you want is not set aside for a male or female. Don’t be afraid of failing because that strengthens you and you get another opportunity to succeed later.”
“To the females out there, just go for it, because other women who came from your neighbourhood are watching and want to emulate you,” she added.
Touching on Desiree impact in South Africa, CPUT chair of council Dr Laurine Platzky said:
“Not only is Desiree’s message of hard work and patient persistence so important to all our young girls, but as a role model she lives a principled life untainted by the glamour of the spotlight.”
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