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MEET TOMORROW%u2019S LEADERSLike many students, Mkhwanazi has faced her fair share of challenges. Balancing academics and financial pressures was a constant struggle, even with the bursary. %u2018There%u2019s always the worry about making ends meet, and the academic workload gets heavier as you progress,%u2019 she said. Despite the difficulties, Mkhwanazi learned to manage her time, seek support when needed and develop resilience. %u2018Failure is something I struggle with, but I%u2019ve come to understand that it%u2019s part of the process. Each setback is a lesson.%u2019Mkhwanazi%u2019s 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. %u2018Coaching has been incredibly rewarding. It%u2019s not just about the sport; it%u2019s about building confidence in these girls and helping them stay focused on positive activities,%u2019 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. %u2018I plan to establish a girls%u2019 empowerment organisation to mentor young girls and help them stay on the right path,%u2019 she said. Her vision is to create opportunities for others, just as the bursary provided an opportunity for her.She advised others to: %u2018Believe in yourself, even when it feels like the odds are against you. Don%u2019t limit your dreams, and know that hard work will pay off. Every challenge, every sleepless night %u2013 it all serves a purpose. And remember, failure isn%u2019t the end; it%u2019s just a step in the journey.%u2019%u2018Believe in yourself, even when it feels like the odds are against you. Don%u2019t limit your dreams, and know that hard work will pay off. Every challenge, every sleepless night %u2013 it all serves a purpose. And remember, failure isn%u2019t the end; it%u2019s just a step in the journey.%u2019MS SIHLOBILE MKHWANAZI16 PHILANTHROPY MAGAZINE