When I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that every dream begins with a single decision to believe in yourself, even when the road ahead is uncertain.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, I would like to share my story, not because it is extraordinary, but because I hope it reminds every young woman that where you begin does not determine where you can go.
Like many students who walked through the gates of the University of Venda, I arrived with dreams, ambition and a determination to build a better future. I pursued a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting at UNIVEN, never imagining that one day I would return to this very institution as its Chief Financial Officer. Looking back, I realise that every lecture, every challenge and every opportunity was preparing me for a purpose far greater than I could have imagined.
My journey has never been about chasing titles. It has always been about pursuing excellence, serving with integrity and continuously investing in my own growth. I have always believed that education is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. That belief inspired me to continue learning long after graduation by completing my CTA qualifications, writing the SAICA board examinations, qualifying as a Professional Accountant (SA), and later becoming eligible to register as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)). Every qualification represented another step towards becoming the leader I aspired to be.
Before returning to UNIVEN, I was privileged to serve in several leadership positions in the public sector, including Director of Finance at the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and Chief Financial Officer at Thulamela Municipality. Those experiences shaped my understanding of leadership, accountability and public service. In 2022, I returned to my alma mater as Director Financial Management and Reporting, and in January 2026 I was honoured to be appointed as the University’s Chief Financial Officer. For me, this appointment is not simply a personal milestone; it is a reminder that dreams nurtured through hard work, resilience and integrity can become reality.
People often ask me what it takes to become a leader. My answer is always the same: leadership is not about position or status. It is about character. It is about showing up every day with honesty, humility and a willingness to serve others. Leadership is about making decisions that will benefit future generations, even when those decisions are not always easy.
As women, we sometimes carry the weight of proving ourselves in spaces where we have historically been underrepresented. There may be moments when you question whether you are good enough, experienced enough or capable enough. I have learned that confidence does not come from having all the answers; it comes from being prepared, remaining true to your values and believing that your voice matters.
To every young woman pursuing a career in finance, business, science, engineering, academia or any other profession, I want you to know that there is room for you at every decision-making table. Never allow stereotypes to define your future. Your gender should never determine the size of your dreams.
There will be setbacks along the way. There will be moments when success seems distant. During those times, keep learning. Keep asking questions. Keep improving yourself. Every challenge is preparing you for something greater than you can see.
I have also learned that success is never achieved alone. I have been blessed by mentors who believed in me, colleagues who challenged me to grow and family members who encouraged me to persevere. That is why I believe we have a responsibility to mentor and uplift other women. When one woman succeeds, she should extend her hand and help another rise. That is how we build stronger institutions, stronger communities and a stronger nation.
As Chief Financial Officer, I carry the responsibility of safeguarding the University’s financial sustainability and contributing to its long-term success. It is a responsibility I embrace with humility because I know that the decisions we make today will shape opportunities for generations of students who will come after us.
My message this Women’s Month is simple: never stop believing in yourself. Invest in your education. Be willing to work hard, even when nobody is watching. Let integrity guide every decision you make and never allow fear to stand between you and your purpose.
The journey may not always be easy, but it is always worth it. If my story encourages even one young woman to pursue her dreams with greater confidence, then I know that every challenge I have overcome has served a greater purpose.
To every woman reading this: your potential is limitless. Dream boldly, learn continuously, lead courageously and remember that your greatest competition is not another woman, it is the person you were yesterday. The future is waiting for women who are prepared to lead with excellence, integrity and compassion. Be one of them.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication
University Of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
