What initiatives are driving the transformation of Technopark Stellenbosch in 2024? We caught up with Alita Bothma, the new Technopark Stellenbosch General Manager, who took us through her new position and outlined seven key initiatives driving the vision of Technopark becoming the premier office park in the Cape Winelands.
Technopark Stellenbosch has come a long way since its establishment in 1985 as an incubator and innovation lab.
In 2015, the Technopark Special Ratings Area (SRA) was voted into existence as a Non-profit Organisation (NPO) with the vision of enabling and creating a sustainable, vibrant, and active innovation community. Its main goal remains to increase the value of the park for property owners and tenants through managing specific portfolios, including security, marketing and landscaping.
In 2023, TechStelSRA identified the need to better align the efforts of its various portfolios, as it broadened its vision to be the prime office park in the Cape Winelands. The Technopark Manager position was therefore created in order to coordinate and facilitate various actions and projects generated by the different portfolios managed by the TechStelSRA directors.
We caught up with Alita Bothma, the new Technopark General Manager, at Workshack on 16 Elektron Road, where she took us through her new appointment, as well as seven key initiaitves driving TechStelSRA’s 2024 vision.
Driving the 2024 TechStel SRA Vision
Although the actual governance of Technopark Stellenbosch falls on the Stellenbosch Municipality, the TechStelSRA plays a key role in advocating for the business park and managing specific projects focused on improving value.
The role of the Technopark General Manager is to be the liaison between different stakeholders within the organisation and play a key role in facilitating and driving forward key projects that will contribute to the NPO’s broader vision and success.
COVID had a profound impact on Technopark Stellenbosch. Not only were local businesses and service-providers hit hard, but there was a shift in the way businesses approach renting office space.
As more businesses have moved their employees back to their offices, a space has again opened up for active community-building and improvement efforts on the part of TechStelSRA.
In this regard we have some exciting initiatives on the go, focused on improving collaboration in the park and consolidating an ecosystem where ideas are born, innovations thrive and communities flourish.
Seven initiatives driving value
1. Scenic Transformation: Collaborating with a Landscaping Architect, we are designing beautiful gardens and restoring the dams to their original splendour. The aim is to provide office workers with a picturesque and relaxing environment during their breaks, fostering a sense of well-being.
2. Vision Plan for “Live Work Play“: TechstelSRA is actively developing a Vision Plan to explore opportunities for a “live work play” lifestyle within Technopark. This holistic approach aims to create a dynamic and integrated community within our workspace.
3. Enhanced Security Measures: We prioritise the safety and security of all employees. To achieve this, we have installed numerous security cameras and implemented visible patrolling on a 24-hour basis. This ensures a safe and secure environment for everyone within Technopark.
4. Community Building: We believe in fostering a sense of community within Technopark. To achieve this, we organise business and social events, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and camaraderie among our diverse community of professionals.
5. Garden Maintenance and Irrigation: Our commitment to maintaining the beauty of Technopark extends to improving irrigation systems. This ensures the longevity of our stunning gardens and contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the workspace.
6. Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle: In line with the importance of a healthy work-life balance, we are developing a running and mountain biking route around the park. This initiative encourages our community to embrace a healthy lifestyle, fostering a sound mind and balanced life.
7. Community Outreach: TechstelSRA is dedicated to giving back to the community. We distribute 120 care packages monthly to girls in schools located in Jamestown, emphasising our commitment to social responsibility and community development.
Collaboration is key
Every initiative mentioned above is geared towards adding value to Technopark and creating an office park that goes beyond the conventional. We are not just transforming the physical landscape; we are building a vibrant and supportive community where every employee can thrive.
As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite you to join us in making Technopark the pinnacle of the Winelands. It is only through collaboration and input from our community that we are able to build be successful.
If you have any questions, ideas or input please send Alita a mail to start the conversation.
