SAADP has had a huge impact on my life. Without SAADP and Nokwanda, I wouldn’t have known about Actuarial Science. In my school, we didn’t have things like career days. As such, I was not aware of the Actuarial Science profession. I attended a talk during Nokwanda’s school visits in my matric year. This was where I first heard about actuarial science and the profession. It was helpful to hear about the SAADP bursary, as I would need funding to continue with tertiary education.

During my actuarial degree, I received incredible support from both Billy Enderstein (UCT programme director) and Nokwanda. The psychological and social support was amazing and made adjusting to the new environment easier. SAADP students were like a part of my extended family with Billy and Nokwanda as head. The journey throughout UCT was difficult but made possible by the support provided by SAADP. Even following completion of my degree, Billy kept in touch and provided me with support throughout my journey to qualifying.

SAADP is an amazing initiative which has touched many students and families who wouldn’t have known about Actuarial science without its existence. Thank you Nokwanda for taking the time to tour the country looking for potential actuarial students – without you and the program, I would have never known that being a part of such a profession was possible for a black girl child from the Eastern Cape like me. You have shown us doors we never knew existed and supported us through the journey with your illuminating words of courage. I will forever be grateful.

Regards,
Thandi Mcizana