The tumultuous journey of being a student in South Africa is one of which many are well aware.
Academic stress coupled with the reality of confronting young adulthood often results in the university experience resembling a daunting rollercoaster rather than “the best years of your life.”
The story of 23-year-old Stellenbosch University student Sesethu Ntamnani is one many ambitious South African scholars face. It is a story of navigating one’s hopes and dreams against the backdrop of financial instability.
Amongst her peers, Sesethu is known as ‘Becky,’ a beloved second-year student and dedicated prop for the Maties Women’s Rugby team.
Her relocation from the Eastern Cape came after her grandmother was involved in a car accident which ended her time in the workforce abruptly.
Up until the accident, Sesethu’s grandmother had been her primary caregiver. During her time in high school, Sesethu moved once again. This time, to Kayamandi, where she attended Kayamandi High School and lived with her uncle.
After matriculating, Becky stated she was “lucky enough” to be admitted into Stellenbosch University, where she intended to complete a bachelor’s degree in social work.
Her interest in the field stemmed from her personal experiences with financial hardship.
“The hardships my family faced sparked a deep desire to help others in similar situations. I viewed this field of study as a way to make a tangible impact and offer support while advocating for vulnerable communities and empowering individuals who, like my family, faced difficult circumstances.”
Her studies, however, came to a halt after she faced academic exclusion during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite this, Sesethu remained determined to better her circumstances, taking on part-time work with EXL and engaging in various volunteer programmes.
Her work at EXL proved pivotal in her journey, as it sparked her interest in human resources.
“While social work focuses on community and individual well-being, HR allows you to help people within organisations by advocating for fair treatment, employee development, and mental well-being.
“My experience at EXL showed me how HR professionals can empower employees, resolve conflicts, and create inclusive workplaces. That resonated with my passion for making a difference in people’s lives but in a structured, business-oriented manner.”
Sesethu was consequentially readmitted to Stellenbosch University to complete a BA degree, wherein she could bolster her passion for the human resources field.
However, recent events have led to an additional financial challenge for the prop player, as NSFAS has not yet covered her university fees, thereby placing her education in jeopardy.
Refusing to give up, Sesethu applied for numerous bursaries, striving to complete her studies without success.
Acting as a beacon of hope for the copious amounts of South African youth faced with the same reality, Sesethu has affirmed that any setbacks faced are, in her words, not the end but merely a part of the journey.
Sesethu is pleading with members of the public to donate to her tertiary education fund before she is deregistered from her university.
“Today, I approach you with humility and hope, seeking your support in my journey to complete my university education.I am seeking any financial assistance to help cover my tuition and related costs so that I can continue my education and, one day, give back to others who face similar struggles. No amount is too small, every contribution brings me closer to my goal.
“Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for believing in the power of second chances.”
First published by Cape Town etc
Compiled by Kirshni Kulsen
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