Mentorship Programme Supports Students all the Way to Graduation
The School of Accounting, Economics and Finance (SAEF) Mentoring Programme celebrated the graduation of 29 of its mentees during the UKZN Autumn Graduation ceremonies.
The goal of the programme, launched in 2020 with support from the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA), is to ensure the holistic wellbeing of mentees to equip them for academic success and to provide them with the life skills needed to thrive after graduation.
Several students commented on the role the mentorship programme played in their academic success. This is what they had to say:
Ms Ayanda Xaba: BCom in Accounting: ‘The mentorship programme enhanced my academic experience and was valuable during my studies. My mentor, who is a chartered accountant, provided valuable guidance as she was in a similar position to mine a couple of years ago, which made me feel more comfortable as I could relate to her. She played a key role in reducing the stress and pressure of such a challenging degree, helping me manage the many demands. The UKZN Thuthuka Bursary programme also provided invaluable support and opportunities throughout my studies, introducing me to a community of like-minded peers who became an integral part of my academic journey. Additionally, receiving the Dean’s Commendation was a significant motivator, affirming my capabilities and encouraging me to persevere through the challenges.’
Ms Lungelo Manqele: BCom Honours in Economics: ‘Doing my BCom Honours in Economics last year was quite a challenge and very different from my undergraduate years. I was also playing sport so it really challenged my time management skills and required me to plan my days carefully so that my academics got enough attention while I was committed to hockey. Being part of the mentorship programme helped me a lot because my mentor allowed enough time in our sessions for me to discuss my plans for the next week or two, how I constructed my study timetables and whether they were realistic for me. As a result, having a mentor held me accountable because I would always have that drive to give my mentor positive feedback and that I had been able to remain disciplined and followed my plan. There were times where plans changed or it was hard to follow through but my mentor would assist me in navigating a new way forward. I applied for a bursary early in the year and did not receive any feedback. To my surprise, I received an email in September confirming that all my tuition for the year had been paid. This was something I did not expect – especially at that time of the year – and I will always be grateful. I also had the opportunity to present my research at the International Biennial Macroeconomics Symposium (IBMS) in October, which was a very insightful and interesting experience.’
Mr Sinakhokonke Ximba: BCom in Accounting: ‘Pursuing this degree tested me academically and pushed me to find the strength to push on. During those moments, there was nothing I could do other than to cry and vent to someone who truly understood the journey. My mentor was always there to guide me in terms of time management and help me back on my feet again. I am currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) and I’m now equipped with problem-solving skills and developed a family-style relationship with my Thuthuka Bursary programme colleagues and fellow classmates. I will always appreciate that I completed this stage of my life at UKZN.’
Mr Siphesihle Buthelezi: Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Banking and Investment: ‘I studied a BCom Accounting at Wits and worked in consulting for about two years before moving back to Pietermaritzburg to further my studies at UKZN. The lecturers who are involved in the Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Banking and Investment (FBIM) programme were very knowledgeable and made learning easy with their style of teaching. The mentorship programme really helped me a lot, especially when things got difficult and academic stress was getting to me. The weekly meeting with mentors was very beneficial as having someone to lean on for guidance and advice in navigating through your qualification helped a lot. I recommend the programme to any other students. I’m currently doing my Master’s in Banking and Investment Management at UKZN and I hope to complete it this year so that I can begin to pursue becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst.’
Mr Bongumenzi Mseleku: BCom in Accounting: ‘The journey towards competing this degree was not easy but worth it in the end. Being part of the mentorship programme was very helpful because my mentor was a former student who understood very well what it’s like to be a UKZN student. Her ideas and tips on how to achieve success were key, and so was her encouragement to keep going. I will always be grateful to her. My future plans include furthering my studies and becoming a Chartered Accountant – securing my BCom is the first step towards achieving that!’
Mr Yusuf Mota: BCom in Accounting: ‘Being part of the mentorship programme was a great help with my studies. My mentor was extremely supportive and always willing to assist in terms of personal motivation, encouragement, a positive attitude and really did push me to excel academically. My aim is to become a Chartered Accountant and serve my articles at a reputable firm from whom I can further my knowledge and learn new ideas/theories. I am currently studying for a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) and plan to work hard to achieve my personal and academic goals.’
Mr Celimpilo Mabaso: BCom in Accounting: ‘The SAEF mentorship programme was instrumental in helping me stay centred and focused in my tertiary studies. Through the interactive bi-weekly, one-on-one mentor/mentee meetings and compulsory weekly succession plans, I was able to stay on top of my academics and thrive on the course. One of the most memorable moments I experienced was an opportunity to present alongside my colleagues at the Forvis Mazars offices in Umhlanga on research that we had conducted for our Financial Accounting project in third year. That entire experience is one that I will always hold dear because I learned a lot about the nature of audits in the real world and how to effectively deliver a presentation that is engaging and informative. I am currently pursuing my dream of being a CA(SA) through the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) degree. Hopefully, after successfully completing this challenging year, I’ll be able to complete my two board exams and three years of articles in record time and officially attain the CA(SA) title and make my family prouder than what they currently are.’
Mr Ntobeko Manqele: BCom in Accounting: ‘What truly made a difference in my journey was mentorship. Having someone ahead of me in the journey – a mentor – changed everything. They offered guidance when I felt lost, encouragement when I was tired, and wisdom when I needed direction. Just knowing I wasn’t alone, gave me the strength to keep going. Outside the classroom, I enjoyed leadership and service experiences that shaped who I am today. I had the privilege of serving as Chairperson of the Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa (ABASA) UKZN, after previously being Secretary- General. I’ve also been a floor representative for S Block, a service-learning tutor, an auditing tutor, and a university teaching assistant. Each of these roles pushed me to grow, taught me the power of teamwork and deepened my love for giving back. I was also recognised as a peer educator, where I supported fellow students with wellness, academics and personal growth. These opportunities helped me find my voice and use it to lift others.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
