Rikes Dry: From Curro Hazeldean to Centralised Office

22 May 2025

 

Rikes Dry, a Curro Hazeldean alumnus from the Class of 2014, is now playing a central role in shaping how Curro is seen and experienced across South Africa. He is based at Curro’s Centralised Office and leads key projects in reporting and brand reputation that directly support schools and influence how the Curro name is understood both internally and externally.

 

From data to decisions

As Project Leader for Reporting and Brand Reputation, Rikes helps schools interpret their marketing performance through data. He refines the group’s reporting tools and platforms to make insights more accessible, enabling school leaders to act with clarity and confidence. He also supports national brand-related projects and plays a role in reputational response when needed.

‘I thrive on transforming data into stories, uncovering insights, and solving problems,’ says Rikes. ‘There’s something powerful about using information to bridge gaps and bring real, actionable change.’

Rikes, who has a background in Communication Science and Psychology, pairs analytical thinking with a strong understanding of human behaviour. ‘I’m passionate about how and why we communicate, and how it connects with how people think, act and respond. Communication doesn’t exist in a vacuum.’

 

Lessons from Curro

Rikes credits Curro with teaching him how to adapt to change – something he now considers essential in both life and work.

‘The most valuable lesson I learned at Curro is adaptability. The world is constantly changing, and our ability to shift how we think or do things makes all the difference. Strong change management skills are essential.’

He encourages the Matric Class of 2025 to keep learning, especially in areas beyond their immediate focus. ‘Stay ahead of the curve by constantly educating yourself – whether it’s about your industry or areas just outside of it. That’s how you stay competitive and set yourself apart as a forward-thinker.’

 

 

Influences and impact

One of Rikes’s most memorable high school mentors was his Geography teacher, Tillie Nolte, who still teaches at Curro Hazeldean. ‘Her passion, her care, and her commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on me. Teachers like her do more than educate – they inspire.’