Aletta Rochat (née Brune), Class of 1978: International President of Toastmasters International

Collegiate Old Girl Aletta Rochat (née Brune), Class of 1978, has been installed as the International President of Toastmasters International. She is the first person from Africa to reach this position, and only the 10th woman in 100 years.  Aletta has spoken and  trained in 21 countries, is the author of 2 books and runs the occasional half marathon, (trains with the Wonder Women!)

A word from Aletta:  "I was a boarder from 1974 to 1978, from Std 6 to Matric, now Grade 8 to 12. I participated in as many school activities as possible, as that often got me out of the hostel! I loved the choir, SCA, and participated in athletics and played hockey.  I was Deputy Head Girl and Head of Hostel.

In 1974, Collegiate celebrated our centenary. I just loved looking at and learning about all the history on display at the school. The centenary celebrations were a highlight for me. I have also remained connected to the Old Girls network, and headed up the Cape Town chapter for a few years. Getting together with the Old Girls always brings me joy. My time at Collegiate was very happy. (I remember sitting at assembly on Founder's Day, wondering why all these old girls kept on coming back! Now I understand – it is a connection to our past, a celebration of enduring friendships and a product of the community that one is a part of at Collegiate."