He believes mathematicians need more recognition for the role they play. There should be more information-sharing about the role that mathematics plays in our everyday lives. “Mathematics is present in every facet of our lives without us consciously knowing it,” says Durieux. After completing his master’s degree, he wants to enter the corporate world where he hopes to become a vital part of an analysis team working with quantitative data and mathematical models, where he can put into practice the mathematical skills gained through his studies.
his studies, he says all of this would not have been possible without the unwavering support and understanding of his family and girlfriend. He chose to do his honours in applied mathematics largely because of his current supervisor, Prof W-H Steeb. “He showed interest in my studies, recognising the potential in me. Furthermore, he showed me that the field of applied mathematics is broad and multidisciplinary, and by pursuing applied mathematics, I could combine my interest in quantum mechanics with my passion for mathematics.”
modules. These results helped him in convincing the Faculty of Science to allow him to specialise in a third major, being applied mathematics. In 2018, his final undergrad year, he achieved distinctions for all of his modules with an average of 86%. This led him into 2019 and, feeling he had perfected his study method, he would wake up at 5 am every day facing two options: either he had classes and would study up until an hour before that class or he would have the day free from classes and study until approximately 5 pm. While Durieux, who lives by the mott o work hard, be kind and stay humble, was diligent and devoted to
John Generalis: Artists and their work are the measures of a healthy democracy Faculty of Ar t, Design and Architecture University of Johannesburg (UJ) Chancellor’s Medal
“The arts remain at the frontline of freedom of expression in our country, and in many ways, artists and the work they produce may be considered the measure of a healthy democracy.” Artist and academic, John Generalis, says his work encompasses his own lived experience as a ‘gay artist’ in South Africa. “I’d like to believe that I keep adding my voice to other artists who hope to broaden people’s perceptions of identity, gender, and self.”
A successful exhibition at the University of Johannesburg Art Gallery was humbling,
Generalis has already experienced an active career in other industries, including prop-making and set painting for theatre, backdrop and mural painting, restaurant and shop design, large scale installation works, and the events industry.
says Generalis. “Many of those who approached me found my narratives about queerness as validation of their own life stories.”
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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