Founder Cecile Kotze honoured in renovated facilities
Bergzicht Training and Development proudly marked its 33rd anniversary with a special event celebrating its visionary founder, Cecile Kotze, and unveiling its newly renovated training facilities. These renovations were made possible through the support of Stellenbosch Municipality.
Bergzicht CEO Renske Minnaar welcomed guests, including Councillor Lwando Nkamisa (Corporate Services), Councillor Tammy Kumm (Youth, Sports, and Culture), and members of Cecile Kotze’s family – Coia de Villiers, Helena Immelman, Rheta Kotze, and Pieter Kotze. Also in attendance were key members of the renovation project team, including Lonwabo Mhlabo (site engineer, MIH Construction), Adolfo Linates (heritage consultant and architect), Ehrel Maletzky (project manager) and Yolande van den Berg (head of contract management).
Reflecting on Bergzicht’s beginnings, Minnaar said: “Thirty-three years ago, on 6 March 1992, Cecile Kotze and her colleagues, Minnie van der Merwe and Meril Ginsburg, had the incredible vision to establish Bergzicht. Today, we remain as strong as ever, continuing to uplift individuals through skills development.”
Special recognition was given to Cheryl Farao of Remgro, a long-standing supporter, and Corlia Jacobs, one of Cecile Kotze’s earliest colleagues. Bergzicht also welcomed Visit Stellenbosch, represented by Nicolette Booyens and Jenna Moses, highlighting the organisation’s valued role in social development.
Representing Bergzicht’s Board, Hannes Koornhof paid tribute to Kotze’s profound legacy:
“Cecile’s founding of Bergzicht was never about personal recognition, it was about creating opportunities for others to build better lives through employable skills. Her commitment to empowering individuals continues to inspire us today.”
Pieter Kotze of Remgro Group Properties emphasized the importance of preserving heritage buildings, stating:
“A nation without history is like a person without memory. Historical buildings embody history -they are the visible footprints of our cultural heritage.”
Adding a personal touch to the tribute, Helena Immelman, Kotze’s daughter, shared heartfelt memories of her mother’s passion for community development:
“For 15 years, Bergzicht brought my mother immense joy. She also founded the Libertas Choir, a reflection of her deep commitment to uplifting people through education and the arts”
Staff member Monique Pretorius welcomed guests with a beautiful violin performance, creating an elegant and heartfelt atmosphere. Our outstanding Master of Ceremonies, David Jantjes, ensured the day was truly unforgettable.
A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of Bergzicht’s newly renovated buildings, a testament to the institution’s ongoing commitment to enhancing training facilities. The upgrades, funded by Stellenbosch Municipality, will provide an improved learning environment for students pursuing careers in hospitality, healthcare, and early childhood development.
“We are deeply grateful to Stellenbosch Municipality for their generous investment in our institution,” said Kathy Harris, chair of the Bergzicht Board. “These upgrades will ensure that our students are trained in a modern, well-equipped environment, preparing them for successful careers.”
With gratitude and renewed commitment, Bergzicht looks forward to many more years of empowering individuals through education and skills development. The Heritage assets of beautiful Stellenbosch are well-known, Bergzicht is less known, but is no less important to our historic town. It is an important responsibility to conserve and protect these valuable and irreplaceable buildings.
At the event Bergzicht management recognised and thanked the Stellenbosch municipality for the commitment to this vital restoration and preservation project which has taken place here over the past months