Chairperson of the Unisa Foundation Board inspires the community

In promoting his book, Unshackled: My Journey from the Township to the Boardroom, published in 2022, Jeff van Rooyen visited the New Gen Academy in Eldorado Park on Saturday, 1 March 2025. His story, one of resilience and determination, resonated deeply with students as he shared how he defied poverty and the challenges of apartheid to build a successful career.

The cover of Unshackled, a book by Jeff van Rooyen

Education and grit

During his engaging book talk, students posed profound questions about life, success, and overcoming adversity. His responses were filled with wisdom and encouragement. Beginning with people, who he says, treated him unfairly, and to some degree, abusively, van Rooyen stated that feeling hurt is natural, but responding with anger or hatred only deepens the pain. “Instead,” he adds, “choose love and kindness. That is how you break the cycle of negativity.”

On what enabled him to break so many barriers in his career, van Rooyen said that it was his strong sense of self-belief, nurtured by his grandmother and teachers, adding: “Many people will try to impose their limitations on you - telling you what you can and cannot achieve. Stay focused, and do not let distractions derail your path.”

On balancing work and life, van Rooyen says that it was no easy feat, and overtime, he opted to lean heavily towards work, because, he says, it was a necessary sacrifice to achieve his goals.

Jeff van Rooyen after signing a book for a student at the New Gen Academy, Eldorado Park, Johannesburg

Explaining how he gives back to society, van Rooyen states that some people believe they should first achieve their dreams and then give back. “I believe in lifting as I climb - pursuing my goals while simultaneously giving back. It is a mindset that has always worked for me,” he said.

Advising on how he coped with loss, van Rooyen says that one should allow themselves to grieve, to feel, and to mourn. Afterwards, they should ask themselves, “how best can I honour that person? The best tribute,” he answered, “is to become the best version of yourself and to care for others - something your loved one would want for you.”

Staying healthy as always been a top priority for van Rooyen, realising early on the diseases caused by lifestyle choices. He explains: “I am very conscious of my health. That is why I quit drinking and smoking a long time ago. I realised moderation did not work for me. In addition, I have seen too many friends and families fall into the trap of alcohol and drugs, and I knew that I did not want that for myself.”

Through his words and actions, van Rooyen continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that education and grit can break even the toughest barriers.

*By Busisiwe Mahlangu, Communication Coordinator: Unisa Foundation and Alumni Relations, with input from ChatGPT