For many, the word “retiree” conjures up images of a senior settling into a slower, more predictable rhythm of life. But some individuals defy the stereotype, choosing instead to step boldly into new ventures and deepen existing passions.

Prof Rachel Jafta, esteemed Economics academic in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University (SU), is one of them. For her, the end of the year marks not a retirement, but simply a formal conclusion to her full-time academic appointment. “I’m not retiring,” she says with a smile. “I’m an economist — now and in the future.”

Three lives, one purpose

Rachel describes herself as having “three lives”: an academic, a business leader, and a committed participant in community initiatives. And none of these, she emphasises, are coming to an end.

In the business world, she will continue to serve as a director of Naspers and Prosus, chair of Media24, and member of the Governance Committee of the Bureau for Economic Research (BER). She is equally passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs locally and abroad. “It’s something I love doing,” she says. “Helping young talent navigate their ideas and opportunities is incredibly rewarding.”

Deepening her community commitments

Her retirement from full-time academia will also give her more time to invest in community projects close to her heart, most notably the Cape Town Carnival, which she founded. “The Carnival turns 16 next year, and I’d like to focus on the next phase: bringing even more people into this incredible initiative.”

She also remains committed to WeCode24, the programme she launched to equip high school learners with the programming skills essential in a rapidly evolving digital world. “We’re engaging with businesses who may want to get involved, whether through funding to enable more learners to join or offering internships to those who’ve mastered the skills but need experience. There’s so much potential,” she explains.

Continuing an academic tradition

Rachel notes that, in the SU Department of Economics, it is almost tradition for emeritus professors to stay involved. She mentions Professors Estian Calitz and Servaas van den Berg as examples, and fondly recalls an encounter with the late Prof Jan Sadie. “I was working on my PhD and came to the office on New Year’s Day. He was already retired at that time, but there he was – working on his second PhD!” she laughs.

Discussions about her continued involvement with the Department are underway. “I’m crazy about teaching,” she admits. “I enjoy research too, but the interaction with students is unbelievably rewarding.”

Earlier this year she visited her alma mater, the Università degli Studi Luigi Bocconi in Milan, where new opportunities presented themselves, along with possibilities at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. “I’m not committing myself to anything just yet,” she says, “but I’m excited to see how things unfold.”

Curiosity without borders

Rachel has long served on the International Advisory Council of the Fundação Dom Cabral Business School in Nova Lima, Brazil; an experience she treasures. “I really enjoy it, and I learn so much,” she notes. “One remarkable aspect is that decisions taken in Advisory Council meetings are actually implemented, usually within six months. It’s impressive.”

Travel remains one of her great pleasures, especially when she’s able to speak the language, as she does in Italy. She recently visited the far south of the country for the first time, and another trip –with a friend from Milan – to explore small Italian towns is already in the works.

She is an avid reader, even if, as she jokes, “there are always new books coming out and the December holiday is far too short!” Long walks, both at home and abroad, are another favourite pastime.

Family, friendship, and the joy of giving

Rachel also looks forward to spending more time with family and friends. Her godchildren – official and unofficial – remain a source of joy, from the 13-year-old’s upcoming visit during the school holidays in December to the young doctor in Windhoek who received a trip to Italy as a 21st-birthday gift. “I wanted to do something truly special for her,” she says warmly.

Prof Rachel Jafta leaves her full-time academic role with a legacy marked by brilliance, courage, generosity and the rare ability to bring people together. Yet she steps forward with the same curiosity and excitement that have always defined her life. Her story is far from slowing down.

• The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences celebrates Prof Rachel Jafta for her extraordinary contributions as a scholar, leader and mentor. Her influence has shaped generations of students, strengthened the Faculty’s academic reputation, and enriched communities locally and internationally. While we bid farewell to her in her full-time capacity, we look forward to the many ways she will continue to inspire and lead.