Shoba Govender, UP alumna and administrator of the University’s Department of Physiology, has been nominated for PAFSA’s PA of the Year award, celebrating her 15 years of dedication and leadership at UP. Read about her inspiring journey and nomination.

Shoba Govender, department administrator in the Department of Physiology at the University of Pretoria (UP), has made a profound and lasting impact in the field of administration. Her recent nomination for the PA of the Year 2024 award by the Professional Association for Secretaries and Administrative Assistants (PAFSA) is a testament to her dedication, expertise and contributions to the University over her 15 years of service. With a career deeply rooted in education and community-driven research, Govender’s success is driven by her passion for supporting those around her – a value she attributes to her upbringing.

“Growing up in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, I was surrounded by a loving family and diverse community that laid the foundation for my lifelong pursuit of knowledge, wisdom and personal growth," she recalls. "Being raised by a single mother taught me the importance of self-reliance and independence."

This early influence, especially from her mother, continues to shape her personal and professional journey.

Govender’s academic path began in 1999 at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she honed her skills before joining UP eight years later. Over the years, she has taken on progressively more complex roles, demonstrating her passion for administrative excellence in every capacity. Her contributions to higher education are marked by a deep commitment to supporting senior management, her colleagues and students, ensuring smooth operations and an inclusive environment for all.

“Throughout my tenure, I’ve had the privilege of working with exceptional colleagues and supporting students, witnessing the University’s transformation,” she says. “It’s been an incredibly fulfilling journey, one that has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the institution.”

Her nomination for the PA of the Year 2024 award further highlights her dedication to her role. This award, established by PAFSA in 2006, recognises personal assistants across various sectors in South Africa, and Govender’s selection as a semi-finalist speaks to her professionalism and work ethic. Her Head of Department, Professor Annie Joubert, who nominated her, shared her admiration: “Ms Govender fosters a motivating, supportive and inclusive team culture, even in a fast-paced environment. Her critical thinking and innovative strategies help drive the institution forward."

For Govender, this recognition is more than a personal milestone – it reflects her deep commitment to the administrative profession. The nomination has provided her with invaluable networking opportunities and reaffirmed her resolve to continue excelling.

Looking to the future, Govender is focused on growth and impact. She actively seeks leadership roles, mentors others and continues to contribute to the administrative community.

"I hope to leave a legacy defined by kindness, empathy and professionalism," she notes, reflecting on her career and her recent nomination.

Her message to the UP community is clear: "Make today matter by focusing on the small actions that lead to meaningful change. Whether it’s offering a helping hand or seeking new ways to improve, every effort counts in creating a positive environment for others."