The most exciting part of your life lies before you, but remember that you have to experience it yourself and you have to make it enjoyable for yourself. Now is the time for you to experience what your mother, father, sister and brother said about their university days – so look forward to it with gleaming eyes, it is better than they could ever describe. Karlien lady’s residence is a unique residence on campus that can guide you into the world with values, balance and growth. At Karlien you meet your friends for life, discover your potential and grow in your faith. On campus there is a home, only the best ladies may live there, because Karlien is not a name, it is a team spirit that stands seven storeys high. As the years come and go, the memories will remain.
History
Karlien was established in 1968 and in the year 2024, Karlien will be turning 56 years old. After all these years we are still just as energetic and proud as always. Karlien consists of seven corridors and built upon seven core values. Character, acceptance, respect, loyalty, integrity, unity and honour.
Our emblem is a donkey named Willempie, which is a unique emblem. He was named after our first residence’s father: Professor Willem Johannes de Klerk. The donkey contains a symbolic meaning for when Jesus Christ rode on a donkey thousands of years ago. Willempie therefore represents humility and a value-driven life journey.
Karlien Ladies Residence always makes an impression wherever we go in our red mass. Nothing can tame the spirit and togetherness of our home – we are THE RED MASS. At Karlien we strive to make the most of our student life in every aspect.
Vision
A NWU Ladies Residence of the highest quality, where Karlien values and traditions are endorsed and lived by through every single Karlien lady.
Mission
We will pursue our vision by being goal oriented, visible, and an engaged unit that builds on our healthy spirit and image through selfless service and by always upholding Karlien’s name through cooperation and loyalty.
Values
- Integrity
- Humility
- Respect
- Serviceability
- Accessibility
- Loyalty
Additional information and fun facts and traditions:
- Karlien is the only female residence that gives out nicknames. Nicknames are chosen during R&O. The reason behind a nickname is seen as an opportunity for girls, regardless of your background, past or who you were in high school, this is your new start to create who you are destined to be.
- On campus we are known as the “Bere”, and we uphold the title with pride. Bere for Karlien represents courage, strength, family (unity) and thoughtfulness; to be protective of what we believe in and to be assertive. You strike a woman, you strike a rock: Wathint’ abafezi, imbokodo.