Jimeloyo

Dear Old Collegians

It is a huge privilege for me to be writing this message to all our proud Old Collegians spread far and wide across the globe, in this my inaugural “FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK“ update. I trust this message finds you well and thriving, while enjoying happy memories of your roots and the incredible privilege of attending a school like College .

College holds a very special place for me. My father Lawrence finished in 1972, and my three brothers Sean (1993), Robin (1996), and Matthew (2001). I have a son, Oliver, currently in 4th form and living his best College life, and I met my wife, Dominique, in the Kent Pavilion on Goldstones, as she too comes from a proud College family. I have served on the MCOBA Executive for three years in various roles, and took on the role of President from Andrew Clayton in June of this year.

What a year this has been. As we head towards the end of 2024, not only does this provide an opportunity to look back and appreciate all the hard work and accomplishments of the year, but also to reflect on what the new year holds for us and our beloved Red, Black and White.

Our Old Collegians have outdone themselves representing Mzanzi and their Red, Black and White heritage in many different areas, not only on the sports field but also in the cultural arena. This has been a truly exceptional year which saw us achieve the capping of our 338th International sportsman, something no other school in South Africa can claim! We have hosted some rip- roaring regional and international branch functions, and celebrated an absolutely amazing Reunion weekend in May. I would encourage you all to take the time and make the effort to attend one of these branch functions in an area near you, even if just to reconnect with old friends, wear your OC Blazer again and unite in the great JIMELOYO shout that is always one of the evening’s festivities.

As we look to 2025, College is truly in an amazing space. The campus is pristine, our fields are still as hard as they were in days past and our boys still uphold the values of truth, courage, kindliness and manliness, which make a College boy a College boy. In 2025, College will see the changing of guard as our Headmaster, Dr Luman, retires. I assure you a great team, that includes OCs, is working tirelessly on a replacement, and as soon as more information is available, this will be shared with you all. This is a well-considered, strategic and lengthy process, and it is unlikely that any change will occur before we hold our next reunion on 31 May 2025.

In closing, I would like to thank each and every staff member on behalf of MCOBA, for their tireless dedication to Maritzburg College. Your passion and commitment to College and the boys knows no bounds, and we are forever grateful to leave our beloved Alma Mater In your capable care.

Enjoy the wonderful stories that follow of what our OCs have been up to, and please consider sending us your news.

Until next time.

Pro Aris et Focis