Class of 2005 Reunites to Build a Legacy for Future Medics

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Medical Class of 2005, in collaboration with the UKZN Foundation, recently hosted a fundraising gala dinner at the Zimbali Estate in Ballito.

The joyful reunion raised over R100 000 to support high-performing sixth-year Medical students facing financial hardship.

Dr Innocent Mukama, Chairperson of the Medical Class of 2005, reflected on the significance of the evening: “What made the evening even more meaningful was our shared decision to leave a legacy. We have collectively established a fund to support Medical students, just as some of us were once supported. This gathering was our time to celebrate where we’ve come from, where we are, and the grace that has carried us through – while sowing seeds for those who will follow us.”

This partnership also led to the establishment of the Class of 2005 Endowment Fund, facilitated and managed by the UKZN Foundation. The Fund aims to raise R1 million to provide sustainable support for final-year Medical students in financial need.

At the heart of the Class of 2005 Endowment Fund is a sustainable model designed for long-term growth. The R1 million capital target will be invested to generate returns. Each year, 70% of the interest will directly support sixth-year Medical students in financial need, with the remaining 30% reinvested to grow the Fund.

“This structure ensures that the fund is not just a once-off gesture, but a permanent legacy that will outlive its founders. Future generations of doctors will benefit because of the foresight and compassion of the Class of 2005. If every member of the Class of 2005 contributes a modest monthly stop order of R500, for just 12 months, the target will be achieved,” added Mukama.

Ms Nolwazi Ncala, a Medical student at UKZN, expressed deep gratitude upon receiving the Medical School Alumni Bursary, describing it as a major relief from the financial stress endured during her fifth year of studies.

Raised by a single mother, she said that the bursary enables her “to focus fully on her academics without the constant worry about fees.” Inspired to study Medicine because of her lifelong fascination with the field and UKZN’s strong reputation, she thanked the alumni for their generosity, describing their support as a blessing, and affirming her commitment to “pay it forward” by helping future Medical students.

Another student, Ms Mikaila Moodley, shared how the bursary eased her financial burden and renewed her determination to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a compassionate, community-focused doctor. Inspired by her grandmother’s medical journey and UKZN’s values of service and humanity, Moodley expressed heartfelt gratitude to the alumni whose generosity is helping her complete her final year of study and motivating her to one day give back.

“Your generosity has not only eased a significant financial burden but has also given me hope and motivation to continue striving to achieve my goals in the pursuit of my dream,” said Moodley.

Legacy and Endowment Officer at the UKZN Foundation, Ms Tankiso Mabotha praised the Class of 2005 for their vision and generosity: “The commitment of the Class of 2005 is a shining example of how alumni can come together to create lasting change. By building an endowment fund, they are not just giving financial support – they are investing in the future of healthcare in South Africa,” she said.

Alumni interested in contributing to UKZN’s legacy through bursaries, bequests, wills or other forms of support are encouraged to contact Ms Tankiso Mabotha at Mabotha@ukzn.ac.za or 031 260 2395.

Words: Melissa Mungroo

Photograph: Supplied