It’s with a mix of gratitude and sadness that we say goodbye to our Bursar, Mrs Soné Griesel. As she closes this chapter at Kingswood College, we can’t help but reflect on the massive impact she’s had on our Kingswood community.

Soné’s journey with Kingswood began back in 2014 when she joined as Assistant Bursar under the leadership of Mr Steven Gardner (OK 1976). From there, she quickly became an indispensable part of the team, becoming Financial Manager. In October 2020 tragedy hit when Steve Gardner was forced to leave Kingswood suddenly for medical reasons – not willing to allow the Kingswood flag dip, Soné stepped up to the plate as Acting Business Manager proving her mettle and dedication to Kingswood once again. It was no surprise when she officially took on the mantle of Bursar in 2022.

“It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our Bursar Mrs Soné Griesel” says Kingswood College Head, Mr Leon Grové.  “Soné was a valuable member of our Leadership Team and was instrumental in bringing to fruition many of the projects undertaken by the school in the last three years, her council and dedication to the school will be sorely missed.”

This sentiment is echoed by Kingswood College Council members who worked closely with her. Mr Jonty Fincham, Chairman of Kingswood College Trusts and Managing Director of GBS Bank has the following to say:

“What stood out for me with Soné was her passionate commitment to Kingswood, and her resilience in the face of challenges. She is always resolute in her adherence to an agreed plan or strategy, even if that is not an easy path to follow. She has made a massive contribution to the school during her time as Bursar and in the many years before her appointment to the office. She provided a steady hand on the tiller through many challenges, including management transitions and also the Covid-19 pandemic. Kingswood will be forever grateful for her contribution and we hope she is a frequent visitor to the school and relevant events.”

Sone’s connection to Kingswood runs deep, not only through her professional role but also as a parent. Her children, Danielle (OK 2018) and Jano (OK 2019), both alumni of the College, have left their own indelible marks on our community. This personal investment in the school’s success has undoubtedly contributed to her tireless efforts to see Kingswood thrive.

As Kingswood College Council member Mrs Lyn Hobson put it, Soné “made her mark at Kingswood, and her efforts and commitment will be remembered and always appreciated.” But for those of us who worked alongside her day in and day out, it’s the little things we’ll remember – her dedication and decisiveness during the tough times, her unshakable faith, her celebration of our collective victories, and the genuine care she showed for every member of the Kingswood family.

So, as we close this chapter on Kingswood’s history, we bid Soné a fond farewell. She leaves behind a legacy of excellence, kindness, and dedication that will be remembered for years to come. Indeed, she is a Kingswoodian to be proud of and will be greatly missed.

To Soné’s husband Johannes, as well as Danielle and Jano, thank you for sharing her with us over the past 10 years.