The Presence Blog

NWU partners with Vessels of Mercy to support community organisations Prof Tinda Rabie recently lead a reflective session on “Nurturing of self from within: presence and self-care for body, mind and spirit” for Vessels of Mercy, one of the university’s valued community engagement partners. Tinda received the invitation to lead this session via Prof Alida Herbst, Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning at North-West University (NWU) and specialist in Social Work and Psychosocial

The power of presence In a world driven by digital charts, efficiency metrics and rapid technological advancement, the most transformative tool in healthcare may be surprisingly simple: being present . In a recent North-West University newsletter, writer Bertie Jacobs  captures the insight of Prof Tinda Rabie from the School of Nursing at the NWU, who reminds us that “a patient is a real person with feelings, hopes and fears—not just a number or case.” Her message is clear:

A Week of Reflection, Collaboration, and Celebration at North-West University Botanical gardens The Presence Team recently hosted the Presence Retreat 2025  at the beautiful Botanical Gardens of NWU, Potchefstroom Campus. It was an insightful and inspiring week, bringing together colleagues from the Vaal, Potchefstroom, and Mafikeng campuses to reflect, share, and celebrate their Presence-focused work. From the first morning, the retreat set the tone for meaningful engagement

Inspiring Mediclinic Potchefstroom’s Leadership Team We recently facilitated a Presence Workshop with the managerial team at Mediclinic Potchefstroom Hospital. Our visit formed part of a collaborative partnership focused on shared learning, reflection, and mutual support. The workshop was presented to the hospital leadership with the hope that the insights and practices could be rolled out to all staff, fostering a culture of presence throughout the hospital. Together, we exp

Presence Team Receives ‘Friends of Sanpark 2025’ Award The Presence Team at the School of Nursing, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, recently experienced a delightful surprise when they were honoured with the “Friends of Sanpark 2025” Award. This recognition celebrates the team’s loyal support and active involvement with SANCA Sanpark and their programs. The award was an acknowledgment of the team’s commitment to community engagement, collaboration, and making a ta

NWU Presence Team shines at the Community-Led Knowledge Co-Creation Seminar – An Initiative of the Faculty of Health Sciences CE Office (30 Oct – 1 Nov 2025) From 30 October to 1 November 2025, the North-West University Presence Team proudly participated in the Community-Led Knowledge Co-Creation Seminar at the Faculty of Engineering, Potchefstroom Campus. The seminar brought together researchers, students, and community members to explore collaborative approaches to health,

In recognition of World Mental Health Awareness Day and National Nutrition Week 2025, the Taking HANDS  community engagement project in the Presence programme partnered to bring holistic care to the Witrand Psychiatric Hospital community. Partners from Dietetics and the Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART) of the North-West University (NWU) visited Witrand Psychiatric hospital. National Nutrition Week 2025 outreach In celebration of National Nutrition Week 2025, the 4t

On October 24, 2025, the Presence Team had the privilege of participating in the Sedibeng District Research Conference, held at North-West University’s Vanderbijlpark Campus. The event brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, and partners to share knowledge and strengthen collaboration aimed at improving healthcare across the district. Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, opened the day with an inspiring address highlight

We were pleasantly surprised when Presence made the front page of Herald Potchefstroom 16 October 2025 ! It was completely unexpected—especially since the team hadn’t even sent any information to the local newspaper. This feature is a testament to how far the Presence concept has come. It feels amazing to see the hard work and impact of the Presence team being recognized and acknowledged in the community. We are truly grateful for the exposure and for how the concept of Prese