Swimming and Academics in Unison for Scholarship Recipient

Swimming and Academics in Unison for Scholarship Recipient

Qualifying for the 2024 Olympics in Paris and graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce degree are goals topping South African swimmer and Prestige Sports Scholarship recipient Mr Gabriel Nortje’s list.

‘I was very blessed to get the scholarship as it gives me the opportunity to study and do the sport I love. The award has taught me to appreciate what I have and to use my options to the fullest,’ said Nortje.

The Free Stater started swimming competitively in Bloemfontein before moving to Durban to join the Seagulls Swimming Club.

‘I knew that if I ever got the opportunity to study that UKZN is one of the best universities in the country and the fact that it is located in Durban made it ideal for me,’ said Norjte.

While swimming is a priority for the young man at this stage of his life, ultimately he looks to succeed in the corporate world.

‘My dad is an entrepreneur, so I have always been surrounded by business and the working world – it fascinated me and encouraged me to be like him. The scholarship will help me finish my degree and the degree will help in making it possible to find my dream job.’

Words: Sibonginkosi Mabika

Photograph: Albert Hirasen