HEIMAT MEN’S RESIDENCE UPHOLDS TRADITION

Megan Grobler

@megan.gro_bler

Founded in 1927, HEIMAT Men’s Residence is a residence built on Christian values and gentlemanly values of integrity and respect for all. The word HEIMAT is German and means fatherland. It started off as a campus residence, occupying the oldest building on campus, but was changed into a day residence in 1991.

When asked what traditions have remained since HEIMAT’s founding, the current primarius, Enzo Rohrs, stated that HEIMAT is still spelled in all caps and that their mascot, “Champ” is still in every House Committee (HC) photo. 

“Champ” is a surfboard that was found by HEIMAT’s very first HC on vacation. Rohrs explained, “It was lost on the vacation but on the last day before returning, it washed up on the beach and then became our mascot.”

HEIMAT’s residence song is “Liefling” by Ge Korsten. HEIMAT also has a tree (Esprit de Corps – ‘The spirit of the body’), which the first years of HEIMAT water daily.

Rohrs stated that being a HEIMAT man means, “Being a man of values; a gentleman towards all. Always leaving something better than you found it, whether it be a place or a person you can lead. HEIMAT cultivates gentlemen from young boys.”

Rohrs told Wapad that he chose HEIMAT because, “I heard many stories about the values the residence has to offer, the relationship we maintain amongst other residences and the vibe they bring, always holding our heads up high.”

“We have an awesome dynamic with Minjonet and truly an amazing sleep relationship as I’ve seen many relationships formed that I believe would last a lifetime,” Rohrs said.

When asked how a first year officially becomes a part of HEIMAT, Rohrs explained that “First years officially become part of HEIMAT at the senior meet and greet when they ring the bell at the clubhouse. Once you ring into HEIMAT, you never ring out.”

HEIMAT aims to cultivate an inclusive environment for everyone by “Offering a platform for each HEIMAT man to showcase himself and his talents for the good of the residents.” 

“My favourite thing about HEIMAT is the values I can see in my own life that I have learned and practiced daily but also the people I have met and the friendships I now keep.”

HEIMAT Men’s Residence is a residence based on gentlemanliness and respect, inclusive to all and a place to form lifelong friendships.

The HEIMAT insignia (Source: Megan Grobler)

Edited by Mignon Walters