Next up in our series is Public Relations and Event Management lecturer Samantha Diedericks.
Samantha matriculated from Victoria Girls High School in Grahamstown before completing a qualification in Sports Management at Kingswood College.
With over seventeen years of experience in event management, Samantha cut her teeth in the industry as Event Project Manager for the Grahamstown National Arts Festival, filling this role for nine years. Thereafter she was appointed as Event Manager for Fashion TV Cape Town, and Operations Manager for TWS Media, hosting consumer wine shows across the country.
Apart from lecturing at Oakfields College, Samantha also runs her own successful events management company, FSG Events.
Asked why she decided to become a lecturer at Oakfields College, Samantha said: ‘It is so fulfilling to be sharing knowledge with the students. It is also very rewarding once you see them in action at an event knowing that they are implementing what you have taught them.’
She feels the possibility of facing unemployment after completion of studies is the greatest challenge facing students today.
It is for this reason that Samantha is grateful for Oakfields College students having an advantage when it comes to seeking job opportunities.
‘During their time at Oakfields College, students have to complete 40 hours of work integrated learning. We try to assist them by getting them to work at events at different venues. Should the students perform well and complete their duties and responsibilities efficiently, the venues usually keep their name on file for any future opportunities. This could possibly start off as an internship but could develop into permanent employment.’
Further to this, Samantha strongly believes the vocal studies component of the course helps the students build self-confidence and gain public speaking skills.
‘This ability certainly helps when it comes to them having to pitch proposals to future clients.
I also take my students to watch some event setups that take place. This gives them a good idea as to what happens behind the scenes.’
