Our residents – André and Terry Besselar, embody the spirit of adventure and intellectual curiosity that thrives within The Somerset. Their journey is a tale of exploration, from the heart of Africa to the serene landscapes of Switzerland, woven together by a shared passion for science and discovery.
Terry, who holds a doctorate in Virology, and André, who holds an Honours degree in Biochemistry and Animal Behaviour, first met during their studies at what was then Natal University.
Post-graduation, Terry joined the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in Gauteng, and André, the devoted partner, followed her to Johannesburg. There, he began a career as an analytical chemist with Novartis, a journey that would evolve as André discovered his talent for managing people. Fluent in Zulu from his Natal upbringing, André transitioned into Human Resources, eventually becoming Group Head of HR at Novartis. His knack for navigating the complexities of a postapartheid workplace led him to establish his own consultancy, Innovative HR Strategies. Their professional success brought them to new horizons when Terry was headhunted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The couple moved to Geneva, where Terry’s expertise in virology was highly valued. André faced the challenge of finding his place in a French-speaking country but eventually secured a role at a Swiss pharmaceutical company. Not one to be idle, he took up tennis, progressing to league play, and later reestablished his consultancy, focusing on change management.
Back in South Africa, the Besselars have found a peaceful haven at The Somerset. An avid walker, Terry enjoys the estate’s tranquil pathways while building the confidence to explore further. André, having faced the lingering effects of a severe bout of Covid, has channeled his energy into a new passion—AI art. The walls of their home proudly display his digital masterpieces, and his creativity has even extended into the realm of AI wood sculpturing.
The Somerset is a luxury retirement village situated in Somerset West. It’s an elegant haven for the over-50s who wish to retire in a luxurious, tranquil, and secure setting where they can discover their own sense of belonging. To contact us, please click here.
