A Renaissance Soul: My Many Hats and Passions

Share five things you’re good at.

I’ve always been fascinated by the interplay of systems and the hidden forces that drive them. As an Industrial Engineer, I’ve honed my skills in analyzing complex processes and optimizing outcomes. This analytical mindset has extended beyond the professional realm, allowing me to delve into the mystical and esoteric.


I’m a proud Grand Runemaster of the Knights of Runes, skilled in the ancient wisdom of the Armanen Futhorkh. I’ve applied this knowledge to various aspects of my life, from meditation and divination to practical magic. My contributions to the Knights of Runes’ annual journal, the Futhorkh, reflect my passion for sharing this knowledge with others.


My journey with Toastmasters International has further refined my communication and leadership skills. I’ve had the privilege of inspiring audiences both locally and internationally, sharing insights from both my professional and spiritual experiences.


As a leader, I’ve guided numerous individuals towards personal and professional growth. I’ve mentored and coached, empowering others to live authentically and achieve their full potential. Whether it’s through one-on-one sessions, group workshops, or simply offering words of encouragement, I’ve cultivated a toolbox of effective strategies to inspire and motivate.


Ultimately, my greatest strength lies in my ability to see the bigger picture while simultaneously paying attention to the details. I’m a skilled synthesizer, capable of bridging seemingly disparate ideas and uncovering new perspectives. This systems thinking approach has allowed me to help countless individuals reach their full potential.

Industrial engineering, Public speaking, Leadership, Systems thinking and Rune mastery is my thing!


While I’ve achieved various accomplishments, I believe that true fulfillment comes from living authentically and embodying one’s values. External achievements are fleeting, but the qualities of the soul are timeless.

© Jurgens Pieterse, All rights reserved. 2024

My First Love: The Language of the Universe

What was your favorite subject in school?


I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t enchanted by numbers. It all started in primary school when a wise teacher told me, “If you love math, math will love you back.” I was only ten, but those words stuck with me.

The magic of numbers


Of course, it wasn’t always easy. One teacher tried to drill multiplication tables into my head, but that wasn’t the way to my heart. It was a bit like trying to force a friendship! Luckily, a few years later, I met a truly inspiring teacher who ignited my passion for math. She encouraged me to think critically and explore new ideas, and her motto, “Think! It might be a new experience!” has stayed with me ever since.


Thanks to her, I discovered a love for problem-solving and logical thinking. This led me to pursue a degree in Industrial Engineering, where I faced many challenges, including some seriously tough math courses. I even threw a textbook against the wall in frustration once or twice! But through it all, my love for math kept me going.


Today, I’m grateful for the journey that math has taken me on. It’s a universal language that transcends cultures and borders. Whether I’m crunching numbers or simply admiring a beautiful equation, I’m always amazed by its power and elegance.


© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

An inner longing answered

I discovered the runes in 1995 at the age of 30.

I’ve always felt a deep yearning for something more, a connection to something ancient and profound. The runes answered that call. It was like finding a missing piece of myself, a key that unlocked a hidden door within. The moment I held them, a wave of recognition washed over me.

At the age of 30


The runes felt familiar, as if they’d always been a part of me. They spoke to my soul in a language I couldn’t fully comprehend, but understood deeply. It was like returning home after a long journey.


With the runes, I discovered a wisdom passed down through generations, a power dormant within me. It was both exhilarating and humbling. They reawakened a part of my being that had been slumbering for ages, reminding me of a truth I had forgotten.


The runes filled me with a sense of purpose and meaning that had been missing. They became more than just symbols; they were a gateway to a deeper understanding of myself and the world.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

A stone age nightmare

Your life without a computer: what does it look like?

Books, maps, shopping – without computers?


A life without computers? Impossible? You’re giving away your age, my young friend. I grew up in the heyday when none of these fancy gadgets existed. It’s not a dream from the stone age for me but a lived reality!


A life without computers was filled with the textured feeling and smell of a new book in your hands. Books were like the e-readers of their time, but without a screen.


There was the excitement of waiting for a newspaper to arrive at your doorstep. We actually had to go out to buy groceries and other items. Shopping was a social activity where people gathered to touch, feel, and taste products before buying them.

We could still remember our way to an address or figure out how to get to an end destination with a map. We had to fold them up and stuff them in our pockets. It was like a real-life adventure every time we went somewhere.

We met in parks, gave each other real hugs and heard our friends actually laughing. When we did not like something they did we told them straight in their face. Our friendships were real…. Authentic!


It’s easy to take for granted all the conveniences and tools we have today, from smartphones to food delivery apps to e-books. But it’s also important to remember that there was a lot of charm and simplicity in life before computers.

You might see boredom and lack in a life without computers, but let me tell you it was a life of many blessings. The skills and dexterity of times gone by might be forever lost for future generations.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

Making a Mark: My Leadership Journey

Do you see yourself as a leader?

I’ve always been a natural leader, even from a young age. My first big leadership role was as the head of the chess playing team at school. I’ve always had a strong belief in myself and a desire to make a difference.

While I initially aspired to be a school prefect, I realized that popularity wasn’t the only path to leadership. Instead, I found my niche in community service and extracurricular activities. At primary school, I joined the school patrol, empowering myself to help others and ensure their safety. This early experience ignited my passion for leadership.

As a student, I discovered my leadership potential in the Christian youth movement. I led a small but dedicated group, learning to inspire others and set a clear vision. My studies also provided me with the knowledge and skills to be an effective leader.

Later in my career, as an industrial engineer and consultant, I was constantly challenged to find innovative solutions and guide teams to success. I even joined Toastmasters International to further develop my leadership and communication skills.

Throughout my career, I’ve held various leadership roles, from managing teams to serving on executive committees. I’ve always focused on empowering others, recognizing their unique qualities and potential. Seeing my team members grow and achieve their goals has been incredibly rewarding.

While my leadership roles may not have been grand, I’ve made a tangible impact on the lives of those around me. And that’s what truly matters to me.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024