Latest news with #Marise
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘A bittersweet goodbye': The Pollards prepare to return to SA
Handré Pollard and his wife Marise are preparing to bid farewell to their life in the UK as the Springbok flyhalf makes his long-awaited return to the Bulls. After three years abroad with Leicester Tigers and five years away from South African rugby, Handré is officially heading back to Pretoria, where he will rejoin the Bulls on July 1. Accompanying him is his wife Marise and their growing family, including a baby girl due later this year. In a heartfelt Instagram Story, Marise shared her emotions about leaving their home in Market Harborough. 'Our last week here, and my heart is heavy. Going to miss our life in Market Harborough so much,' she wrote. ALSO SEE: Radio legend Darren Scott loses decades-long battle with cancer A new chapter The couple's time in the UK marked a meaningful chapter for the Pollards. Their first child, baby Hunter, was born during their stay, and their British home reflected a beautiful blend of cultures — South African roots with a European backdrop. One of Marise's most cherished spaces was their safari-themed nursery, inspired by their homeland. They also created a memory wall in their home, adorned with the co-ordinates of key locations in their journey: Where they met in Paarl, their first home in Pretoria, and residences in both France and the UK. Marise has often shared her love for the UK and the life they built there. 'South Africa will always be our home. But I'm so grateful to call the UK home as well. I love this country, I love our life here, and I love this chapter,' she posted previously. Expecting their second child and returning to their roots With their second baby on the way — a little girl expected at the end of October — the timing of the move comes at a pivotal moment for the couple. Their return to South Africa allows them to be closer to family and re-establish themselves as Handré resumes his professional rugby career on home turf. The announcement of Pollard's return to the Bulls has been met with excitement from fans, many of who are eager to see the seasoned flyhalf back in the local line-up. Looking back with love, and forward with hope While the move is undoubtedly filled with anticipation, it's clear the Pollards are also closing the door on a cherished chapter. For Marise in particular, the emotional weight of saying goodbye to a place that became home is palpable. But with new beginnings on the horizon, both personal and professional, the couple now looks ahead to a new season—one rooted in family, familiarity, and the familiar roar of Loftus Versfeld. ALSO SEE: The post 'A bittersweet goodbye': Marise and Handré Pollard prepare to return to South Africa appeared first on Woman and Home Magazine.
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Marise Pollard and her family prepares to bit farewell to the UK
The family is returning to South Africa as Handré has signed a new deal with the Bulls. Marise Pollard and her husband Handré during their first maternity photoshoot. Picture: Instagram/@marisepollard Marise Pollard and her family are enjoying their final days in the United Kingdom as they prepare to return to South Africa, following Handré's end of contract with English rugby club Leicester Tigers. Marise's husband, Springbok fly-half Handré Pollard, recently concluded his contract with the Leicester Tigers, marking the end of their chapter in the United Kingdom (UK). 'Last week here, and my heart is heavy. Going to miss our life in Market Harborough so much,' Marise wrote on her Instagram Stories Handré first left South Africa in 2019 to join French Top 14 side Montpellier, where he spent three seasons. In 2022, he moved to the UK after signing with Leicester for the 2022/23 season. ALSO READ: Eben and Anlia Etzebeth expecting baby number two: 'Our little wildflower' Looking ahead to life back home The family is returning to South Africa, as Handré has signed a two-year deal with the Bulls based in Pretoria, where he is set to begin in July this year. Handré said he is beyond excited to return home after several wonderful years abroad. 'I am really grateful for this opportunity… It's something I don't take for granted. Being able to come home after a great few years overseas, I'm beyond excited. 'Over the last 12 months, the strength, courage, and love in your heart have been at the centre of our little family. I love you more than you will ever know. And as always, I can't wait to see what the future holds for us. Love you, baba,' he said earlier this year following the announcement. Last month, Marise revealed she is pregnant with their second child. The couple welcomed their first bundle of joy in April last year. Marise and Handré have been together for more than eight years. They tied the knot in 2017 at the Cavalli Estate in the Cape Winelands. NOW READ: Kelvin Momo a no-show – again
The South African
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Pollards set to return home: 'Hearts are so heavy'
Handre Pollard and his pregnant wife Marise are gearing up to head back to South Africa ahead of his return to the Bulls in a few weeks. The Springbok flyhalf has signed a contract with his old Pretoria team after playing abroad for the past five years. On an Instagram Story, Marise Pollard revealed that their family would soon be leaving their UK home in Market Harborough. Handre and Marise have lived in the country for the past three years, where the rugby player was signed to Leicester Tigers. With his contract ending, Handre has opted to return to South Africa to play for the Bulls. He will mark his return on 1 July. Marise and Handre Pollard will return to South Africa. Images via Instagram: @blue_bulls_official/ @marisepollard 'Our last week here, and my heart is heavy. Going to miss our life in Market Harborough so much', the pregnant rugby WAG shared on her account. Marise, who gave birth to her first child in the UK, recently announced her second pregnancy and is likely hoping to settle back in SA as soon as possible. This time around, the couple are expecting a baby girl, due at the end of October. While Handre is undoubtedly a man of few words, Marise Pollard has often commented on their life and home in the UK. In their classy abode, Marise revealed how the family incorporated elements of their South Africa into their second home. One was baby Hunter's safari-themed nursery. Another is a memory wall that boasts the coordinates of where the couple first met in Paarl and where they set up their first home together in Pretoria. The coordinates also revealed the locations of their home in France and the UK. Marise added, 'South Africa will always be our home. But I'm so grateful to call the UK home as well. I love this country, I live our life here, and I love this chapter. In another post, she shared of their winter wonderland abroad: 'We just love our little life on this side of the world.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
Qatar Tribune
12-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
UCQ graduates reflect on legacy, learning, future at final convocation
Satyendra Pathak Doha In an emotionally charged ceremony that marked both an ending and a new beginning, the University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) held its final convocation attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson of Qatar Foundation, on Sunday. The event not only celebrated the academic accomplishments of UCQ's last cohort of graduates but also honoured the institution's vital role in shaping the future of Qatar's healthcare system over nearly two decades. As the only Canadian university in Qatar, UCQ has made remarkable contributions to the nursing profession in the country, equipping hundreds of students with critical skills and clinical knowledge to support and enhance the nation's health services. This final graduation ceremony carried a sense of deep pride, reflection, and gratitude, especially among the students who now prepare to take their first steps as professional nurses. In candid conversations after the ceremony, several graduates shared their thoughts on their journey at UCQ, the significance of their education, and the paths they hope to pursue moving forward. Angeli Mae Tan, originally from Philippines, has called Qatar home for the past 15 years. She enrolled at UCQ with a clear focus: 'to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse'. 'When I decided on nursing, UCQ was the go-to institution,' Angela said. 'It was the only university offering a comprehensive nursing programme at the time, and I knew I wanted to study there.' Angeli fondly recalled her experience at the university, highlighting the positive atmosphere and supportive faculty. 'The environment was so healthy and uplifting. The university made a real effort to promote mental well-being, not just for students but for faculty as well. That made a big difference in our learning experience,' she said. She made special mention to instructors like Amby and Anna, whose guidance left a lasting impact. Angeli has already applied for positions within Qatar, particularly at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and hopes to begin her nursing career in the country that has been her home for over a decade. Marise Antoun Abou Jaoude, a Lebanese national who has lived in Qatar for 13 years, also chose UCQ for its strong academic reputation and hands-on approach. 'It was the ideal fit for my future goals,' she said. 'The university provided us with exceptional opportunities for hospital placements, allowing us to engage directly with patients, doctors, and staff in real-world settings. Those experiences were invaluable.' Marise emphasised the holistic nature of her training, which prepared her not only to be a nurse but also a compassionate healthcare provider. 'Each hospital I trained at—from various HMC facilities to other institutions—played an important role in my growth. I learned something new with every rotation,' she said. Looking ahead, Marise plans to continue her career in Qatar. 'This is where I studied, where I trained, and where I feel nurses are truly appreciated. I would love to give back to this community,' she stressed. Maymona Aby Yousuf, a Bangladeshi national who has lived in Qatar for an impressive 25 years, echoed similar sentiments. Passionate about healthcare from a young age, Maymona said her decision to study at UCQ was driven by the university's reputation and the opportunity it provided to make a meaningful contribution to society. 'Nursing was my calling, and UCQ was the place that made it possible,' she said.
The South African
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
'God is good': Handre Pollard's wife is pregnant!
Marise Pollard, the wife of Springboks fly-half Handre Pollard, announced that they are expecting their second child together this October, via an Instagram post on Tuesday 29 April. Springboks fly-half Handre Pollard is about to be a father of two! His wife, Marise shared an adorable video announcing her pregnancy, just days after celebrating their son, Hunter's first birthday. In the video, Marise is seen in a yellow dress sporting an adorable baby bump, along with Handre and Hunter, who wore a shirt written 'brother.' Marise revealed that their second baby is due in October. 'Our little family is growing! 🍼. Hunter is going to be a big brother in October and we are beyond excited, God is so good. 💕,' she wrote. Take a look at the announcement video here. 'So good! 🙏🏽❤️,' wrote Layla Kolbe, the wife of Cheslin Kolbe. 'I'm so exciteddddd 🥹😍❤️,' wrote Rachel Kolisi, the estranged wife of Springboks captain Siya Kolisi. 'Our little gang is growing 🐥❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️,' wrote Saskia Snyman, wife of RG Snyman. Handre and Marise's announcement come just a few days after their son, Hunter Andre Pollard celebrated his first birthday on 25 April. 'Congratulations on your FIRST birthday our sunshine boy ☀️💛 Thank you for the best year of our lives. You came to change us, forever in the best way possible. It's the best thing in the world to be your mom and dad, we love you incredibly,' she wrote in an Instagram post at the time. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
