- Nicole Watson
- IRELAND: Kader Asmal Fellowship
- Smurfit Graduate School of Business, University College Dublin, 2014-2015
Studying in Ireland presented an unparalleled opportunity to engage with and learn from leading minds from around the world. It allowed me to expand my worldview and step out of my comfort zone in Cape Town (which is really hard to leave). It also gave me more confidence to interact and work in international settings which has significantly helped my career and is so important in this global world!
I now work for an international social enterprise that provides ethical, impact-driven service and internship programs to participants from across the globe. Programs are high quality, with a specific focus on support throughout the entire journey, and are driven to impact the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in three main categories: community development, marine conservation and wildlife conservation. As the Director of Institutional Relations I manage university partnerships in North America and work closely with leading institutions of higher education to develop impactful programs that achieve specific learning objectives through experiential education.
I wish I could say I was drawn to Ireland because of our shared history and similarities. However, I was first attracted because of the gorgeous countryside, Enya and Dublin! The more I learned about Ireland and the role they played in supporting the end of Apartheid, and the relationship between South Africa and Ireland as espoused by Kader Asmal, the more I appreciated the opportunity to live and study in Ireland. I hope to continue building this relationship through the Kader Asmal Alumni network.
I would encourage anyone to apply for the Kader Asmal Fellowship Program and want to share this Irish blessing: “May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
Nicole currently serves on the Kader Asmal Alumni Executive Committee as the Secretary. She hails from the small town of Malmesbury and completed her MSc at the Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business, University College Dublin in Strategic Management and Planning.