Omphile Bertha Taele, SPU’s recipient of the prestigious Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, has returned from an enriching educational tour that broadened her academic and personal horizons.
The journey began in Cape Town, where she explored iconic sites like Robben Island and the Silvermine Nature Reserve, before travelling to the United Kingdom. Highlights included visits to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, where Omphile engaged in high-level discussions on politics, economics, and historical reparations. She had the rare opportunity to meet thought leaders like Lord Karan Bilimoria and Mr Andrew Feinstein.
“We were constantly in conversation with powerful minds. Each day was filled with activities that stretched my worldview and my passion for archaeology”.
Omphile also toured world-renowned institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, and the Francis Crick Institute. “Visiting places where historical figures like Isaac Newton once studied was mind-blowing. Experiencing places, I’d only read about—like the British Museum—offered me a new lens through which to see archaeology.”
A special highlight was a shadowing opportunity at the Museum of London where she was welcomed by leading professionals in the field of Archaeology. “The UK is so deeply layered with history. Every building has meaning, and everything is documented—this was a dream come true.”
She also visited Edinburgh and Dunnottar Castle in Scotland, calling Edinburgh her “favourite city in the world.”
Now back at SPU, where she is serving as an Academic Facilitator and studying towards her Master’s in Archaeology, Omphile reflects on the fellowship with pride. “The Abe Bailey experience afforded me lifelong networks and access to spaces I never imagined I would enter. I will carry this knowledge and inspiration with me always.”
Omphile will graduate with her Honours in Archaeology at SPU’s 2025 Graduation Ceremony in April and is determined to complete her Master’s and then pursue a PhD. “There is nothing impossible. If you focus on your vision, you can achieve it.”
Her journey is a testament to how SPU changes lives and enables brighter futures.
