Foundation

Ms Sihlobile Mkhwanazi, a second-year UKZN BCom Accounting student, received a bursary from Computershare (Pty) Ltd, awarded via the BEE Chamber. The bursary has allowed her to pursue her dream of becoming a chartered accountant without the burden of financial strain.

For Mkhwanazi, a bursary represents far more than financial relief – it is a gateway to a better future. ‘For students like me, a bursary is a lifeline,’ she said. Growing up in a single-parent household, financial challenges were a constant part of her life. ‘The opportunity to continue my studies without worrying about tuition fees has been transformative. It has allowed me to focus on my education and my future.’

Raised in Hillview, Empangeni, by a mother who placed education above all else, upbringing instilled in Mkhwanazi a passion for learning and a desire to give back. ‘My mom made sure that we attended good schools, including Empangeni High School, where I was exposed to extracurricular activities that most children in our situation wouldn’t have had access to,’ she said.

These early opportunities ignited Mkhwanazi’s interest in accounting. Her decision to pursue it is her way to break the cycle of financial hardship her family faced and to build a stable, successful future, not only for herself, but also for her loved ones.

While her high school ambitions revolved around achieving stability through accounting, her time at university broadened her horizons. ‘Studying accounting showed me that it’s not just about numbers; it’s about understanding economics and the larger financial systems that shape our world,’ she said. This deeper understanding has fuelled her desire to make a meaningful impact in both the corporate world and her community.

Like many students, Mkhwanazi has faced her fair share of challenges. Balancing academics and financial pressures was a constant struggle, even with the bursary. ‘There’s always the worry about making ends meet, and the academic workload gets heavier as you progress,’ she said.

Despite the difficulties, Mkhwanazi learned to manage her time, seek support when needed and develop resilience. ‘Failure is something I struggle with, but I’ve come to understand that it’s part of the process. Each setback is a lesson.’

Mkhwanazi’s leadership extends far beyond her studies. She coaches a netball team, a project she started earlier this year, and also runs a small business selling hair bows. ‘Coaching has been incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about building confidence in these girls and helping them stay focused on positive activities,’ she said. Her entrepreneurial venture has taught her valuable lessons in leadership and business, further enriching her skill set.

Mkhwanazi envisions a future where she not only thrives as a chartered accountant but also gives back to her community. ‘I plan to establish a girls’ empowerment organisation to mentor young girls and help them stay on the right path,’ she said. Her vision is to create opportunities for others, just as the bursary provided an opportunity for her.

She advised others to: ‘Believe in yourself, even when it feels like the odds are against you. Don’t limit your dreams, and know that hard work will pay off. Every challenge, every sleepless night – it all serves a purpose. And remember, failure isn’t the end; it’s just a step in the journey.’