UKZN Student Awarded Allan Gray Fellowship to Advance Entrepreneurial Leadership

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is celebrating the selection of second-year Bachelor of Commerce student Ms Luyolo Nqala into the highly competitive Allan Gray Fellowship Programme – a prestigious initiative aimed at cultivating entrepreneurial-minded leaders across South Africa.

Currently pursuing a BCom degree in Finance and Economics, Nqala described the moment she received confirmation of the award as deeply emotional and unexpected.

“Honestly, I am still in disbelief,” said Nqala. “The way my university journey began… never in my wildest dreams did I think I would one day be awarded such a prestigious scholarship. More than the achievement itself, I am deeply grateful and relieved. Being able to make my single mother’s life a little easier has always been my greatest wish and through this scholarship, that wish has become a reality.”

The Fellowship selects a limited number of students annually based not only on academic excellence, but also on their demonstrated entrepreneurial potential and leadership capacity. While the programme provides financial support, its core focus is on developing high-impact entrepreneurs who can contribute meaningfully to economic growth and social change.

“This fellowship will cover my tuition and residence fees, provide a monthly allowance, and offer psycho-social and tutoring support,” Nqala explained. “Beyond the financial assistance, I am gaining something even more meaningful; a community of like-minded individuals who share entrepreneurial ambitions and a commitment to growth.”

Through the programme, she will gain access to mentorship from a dedicated Foundation staff member and an experienced business mentor, a structured online entrepreneurial curriculum, and annual entrepreneurship conferences, seminars and workshops designed to develop both personal and business leadership capacity.

Reflecting on her aspirations, Nqala emphasised her commitment to using entrepreneurship as a tool for social impact.

“My biggest goal is to leave this experience with enough knowledge, wisdom, and understanding to pour back into the world through business. I truly believe entrepreneurship is not just a career path, but a powerful vehicle for impact and change. It creates opportunities, restores dignity, and transforms communities,” she said.

Nqala also believes her involvement in leadership-focused student organisations such as ABSIP and Enactus played a role in her successful application.

“I think what helped me stand out was the fact that I had been involved in a lot of societies that help shape a leader – but I also think it was because I was very confident in the way I carried myself throughout the interview, although it was very tough,” she added.

Encouraging fellow students who may feel discouraged in their academic journeys, she shared a message of hope: “Sometimes it may feel like you’ve hit rock bottom, but remember from there, the only way is up. Don’t stop believing in yourself.”

Executive Director of Corporate Relations at UKZN, Ms Normah Zondo, congratulated Nqala on the achievement, noting that the selection reflected strongly on the University’s reputation and the calibre of its students.

“This is indeed a remarkable achievement and a testament to the student’s potential and commitment,” said Zondo. “It speaks to the entrepreneurial promise of our students and the strength of the UKZN brand.”

The selection follows a rigorous multi-stage process, with just one of UKZN’s two finalists securing an offer this year. For UKZN, Nqala’s achievement represents more than individual success – it signals the growing culture of innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship being nurtured within the Institution, as it prepares future graduates to contribute meaningfully to society through enterprise and innovation.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Supplied