On April 21, the Faculty of Economics and Finance at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) concluded its Autumn graduation series in style at the Multipurpose Hall on the Ga-Rankuwa campus, where graduates walked the stage to receive their hard-earned qualifications in the presence of proud family, friends and colleagues.
The ceremony marked the official close of the faculty’s Autumn graduations, celebrating the academic achievements of students who successfully completed their studies under the Faculty of Economics and Finance. Individual brilliance was acknowledged and recognised as graduates took centre stage in a hall filled with celebration and joy.
Among those graduates was a passionate mother of two, colleague and a sister to many at NOVO Res, Bonakele Cynthia Gumbi, who obtained her Advanced Diploma in Public Finance. For Ms Gumbi, this achievement is not the end of her journey, but the beginning of a new chapter, as she now aims to pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Finance.
“I want to achieve deep knowledge at the level I’m currently doing in all my modules so that I can be ready for the corporate world as per the TUT pillars,” Ms Gumbi stated.
Behind the qualification lies a journey marked by resilience. Like many students who face daily academic pressures, Ms Gumbi had to navigate the responsibilities of being both a student and a parent, while also managing the demanding role of maintaining a residence full of students.
“It was a tough one, but dedication, passion, self-motivation and hard work helped me,” she said.
Her academic path was not the one she had initially planned. Ms Gumbi had hoped to pursue a career in teaching, but after not finding space in the programme, she shifted her focus to public finance. What started as an alternative soon became a passion.
“I gained interest in this course that I am doing. I just saw myself as a future government auditor or state accountant. I started picturing myself as a Member of Parliament and grew an interest also in public finance,” she said.
Having lost her parents at an early age and coming from a less privileged home, Ms Gumbi also became a mother during her teenage years. Despite these challenges, she refused to let her circumstances define her future.
“I used my weakness to push. My kids are my motivation. I’m from a less privileged home, so it is in my strength and mindset to change the situation,” she stated.
Now determined to further her studies and obtain her postgraduate qualification in public finance, Ms Gumbi hopes her story will inspire others who may feel limited by their background, age or responsibilities.
“Despite age, kids or family background, one can still make it. Message to everyone, let’s break those generational curses, our challenges don’t decide our future,” she added.
