Student rises above his personal challenges

Bestowing the awards at the graduation ceremony was College Councillor Ms Nandi Madiba. Proud Top Achiever NC (V), Finance, Economics and Accounting, recipient is Sydney Shabangu

Thumbs up and hats off to this genius! Student, Sydney Jesaya Shabangu, is studying Financial Management at Tshwane North TVET College, Pretoria Campus, Gauteng Province.

He completed the three-year National Certificate Vocational, (NC (V), Finance, Economics and Accounting course in record time, attaining a total of nine distinctions in the process.

He obtained, among others, three for New Venture Creation, two for Life Orientation one for Applied Accounting and another for Economics. The interview we had with Sydney confirmed his strong character. “I regard Tshwane North TVET College as my second home.

After all, this is where I spend most of my time during the week, building my education.

There are many people who support me, lecturers, general workers, administrative staff and students.

When I first arrived at the College, I looked confident but inside I was wondering if I would cope. I felt intimidated by being around physically abled people every day for the first time in my life, as I was previously attending a college for the physically impaired.

As time went by, I observed that when you have a positive attitude towards others, they will accept and support you throughout your journey.

Hard work, determination and support pushed me beyond my thoughts and dreams. I have also learnt that the tougher something gets, the more valuable it becomes. I am currently enrolled for N5 Financial Management.

The most exciting day for me was on 29 June this year at the annual graduation ceremony. I ascended the stage for the first time to have my NC (V) qualification officially handed over to me.

To my resounding joy, I was announced as the Best Achiever in NC (V). I received a laptop, tablet and a trophy for my performance. I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to my College family, my Mother and to God.”

By Nkeko Motloutsi

Source TVET College Times