I made a decision that I was going to study at the University of Cape Town when I was in grade 5. On a random chilly winter school day, a guy walked into our classroom and had a warm conversation with my class teacher – you could tell they shared good memories from the past. Our teacher introduced him to us and he told us that he used to sit in the same desks as us and he was going to the ‘best’ university in Africa, UCT. Growing up in the rural South of KwaZulu Natal where I had to fetch water from the river in the morning before going to school – nobody in my village knew what UCT is but from that day I told myself that I will also be a UCT student.
UCT was nonetheless bound to be a challenging environment. Three things led to my university career success; leadership, sports and most importantly EDU (Educational Development Unit). My involvement in leadership as the Head Student of the biggest male residence, being part of the Student Representative Council and my involvement in a number of social development programs gave me a lot of confidence to succeed academically and to adjust to a new environment. EDU is a holistic place; where you find academic support, financial support, make friendships for life, possibly meet your wife (I was very close to that), psychological support and a space of constant inspiration. EDU was definitely a homely space – a space that is supportive in all aspects of life.
I am currently working at Investec Bank Limited as a Private Banker. I am enrolled for CFA Level 1 exam and also applying for a Masters in Development Finance at UCT. My interests are four fold; water sustainability, renewable energy, quality education for all and holistic health.
