University of Pretoria (UP) alumna Shoba Govender, a departmental administrator in UP’s Department of Physiology, was nominated as a semi-finalist for the Professional Association for Secretaries and Administrative Assistants’ 2024 PA of the Year award. This recognition celebrated her 15 years of service, professionalism and leadership at UP. Nominated by Professor Annie Joubert, Govender was commended for cultivating an inclusive team culture, promoting critical thinking and implementing innovative strategies that contribute to the University’s success.

This honour has reinforced her passion for the administrative profession, mentorship and ongoing personal development. As she looks to the future, Govender hopes to leave behind a legacy of kindness, empathy and professionalism – inspiring the UP community to value the power of small, meaningful actions that lead to lasting change.

Tell us about your background.
I was born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, a city known for its rich history and scenic beauty. Growing up in such a vibrant environment has deeply shaped my values and work ethic.

Where did you work before joining UP?
Prior to joining UP, I spent eight years at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where I was involved in student and academic administration for one of the largest programmes, the Bachelor of Commerce degree in Management, Accounting and Economics. I hold a master’s in Public Management and Policy, which has further sharpened my skills in strategic planning, policy analysis and organisational management.

What attracted you to UP, and what aspects of your job do you enjoy most?
Its strong academic reputation and structured work environment attracted me to the institution. I was drawn to the opportunity to work in a well-established, research-intensive university that values professionalism and continuous improvement. I enjoy the collaborative environment, the diversity of colleagues I interact with and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the functioning of the division.

What are your day-to-day responsibilities as a departmental administrator?
As the departmental administrator in the Department of Physiology, under the Division of Biokinetics and Sport Science, I manage a wide range of operational and administrative functions. These include divisional finances, procurement, HR-related processes, staff appointments, and student and academic administration. I also coordinate meetings and events, ensure compliance with UP policies, provide reporting and address day-to-day challenges to ensure the division runs smoothly and efficiently.

What challenges do you encounter in your department, and how do you manage them?
One recurring challenge is managing competing deadlines and ad hoc requests during peak times. I address this by using meticulous planning tools, prioritising tasks effectively, and maintaining open communication with both academic and support staff. My calm demeanour under pressure and the decision-making skills I’ve developed through my master’s degree help me deliver quality results on time. I also value teamwork, and leverage strong professional relationships to navigate challenges collaboratively.

What improvements would you like to see in your department, and why?
I’d like to improve the efficiency of routine processes by integrating smarter digital tools and automation where possible. This would reduce manual workloads, improve turnaround times and enable the division to focus more on strategic goals. With my background in strategic planning and policy management, I can identify and implement improvements that will streamline workflows and enhance service delivery.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy the variety and impact of my role. Supporting both academic and support staff, solving complex problems and contributing to the University’s operational goals are deeply fulfilling. My strengths in organisation, communication and leadership are well utilised in this position, and my exposure to international programmes, like UMoveME at the University of Minho (Portugal), has broadened my perspective and reinforced the value of global collaboration.

What is the least favourite part of your job?
While I’m passionate about my work, dealing with urgent, last-minute requests that disrupt planned schedules can be challenging. However, I’ve developed strong time management and adaptability skills, which allow me to handle these situations effectively while maintaining high standards.

What do you do in your free time?
I enjoy activities that help me to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Walking keeps me active and clears my mind, while reading, especially material that supports personal and professional development, broadens my outlook. I also unwind by listening to music, and most importantly, I cherish spending quality time with my family, which keeps me grounded and fulfilled.

What are your likes and dislikes?
I value structure, professionalism and collaboration. I thrive in environments where communication is clear, goals are shared and mutual respect is present. On the other hand, I dislike disorganisation, inefficiency and unnecessary delays, as they obstruct productivity and progress. I’m passionate about continuous learning and growth, and I appreciate environments that encourage innovation and professional development.

What does the future hold for you?
Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities for growth and contribution within UP and the broader higher education sector. I’m committed to supporting the operational and strategic goals of the Department of Physiology, while developing my skills to adapt to the evolving academic landscape. My vision is to foster a culture of excellence, where efficient administrative practices empower the University’s mission and community.

Quick quiz: 

Sport: Walking – it’s an enjoyable way to stay fit and a great way to clear my mind.

Food: I enjoy a variety of foods, but I have a particular fondness for home-cooked meals, especially traditional dishes that remind me of my roots.

Movies: I love movies that offer deep storytelling or inspire personal growth, like dramas or thought-provoking documentaries.

Actors: I admire actors who bring depth to their roles, like Denzel Washington and Kevin Costner, whose performances are always so compelling.

Musician: I enjoy listening to a range of music, but I particularly love classic jazz and soulful artists like Gladys Knight and Aretha Franklin.

All-time hero: Nelson Mandela – his resilience, leadership and commitment to justice have always been an inspiration to me.