My name is Nkanyezi Khanyile, and I am a soon-to-be BCom graduate in Information Systems and Finance at the University of Cape Town. I have been an ISFAP recipient throughout my studies, and I would like to wholeheartedly thank ISFAP and my university program manager for making my dream of completing my degree a reality. This journey has afforded me not only the opportunity to gain knowledge but also unforgettable experiences and connections with incredible people.
It feels like just yesterday when I received the call from ISFAP informing me that I had secured funding for my studies in 2022. At that time, I had taken a leap of faith by enrolling at the best university in Africa, despite facing significant uncertainty about how I would finance my studies. Yet, my belief in myself and the destiny that led me here outweighed any doubts. After receiving that call, the first thing I did was call my mom to share the news that the burden of financial worry had been lifted from our shoulders.
For me, ISFAP funding meant that I could fully focus on my studies and enjoy the university experience without the constant stress of financial constraints. It spared me from the difficult situations of not being able to register for subsequent years and ensured I received my allowance consistently (which was a generous amount, by the way 😊). ISFAP also provided me with the essential tools to succeed, such as a laptop and a stationery allowance, in addition to covering my fees.
Our program manager, Hayward Barends, created a warm and supportive space for us students, where we could connect with other ISFAP recipients within UCT and across other universities in the Western Cape. These interactions allowed us to build a sense of community, network, and form lasting friendships within the ISFAP family.
My Advice to First-Year Students
You belong here—believe in that and give it your all. Time flies, and when you look back on your university journey, you don’t want to feel regret. Instead, aim for a sense of fulfilment, knowing that you gave your best in everything you did. This applies to all aspects of university life—your academics, social life, and extracurricular activities. Participate in your residence, join societies and sports, study smart, and give your academics the attention they deserve. University is about achieving a healthy balance, and once you master that, you’ll excel not just academically but in life overall.
Remember to give yourself grace in moments of failure. Without failure, there are no lessons learned. I often remind myself during challenging times that setbacks are essential parts of my life story. After all, what’s a great story without a few twists?
Embrace every moment of this new journey. Stay focused on the process, but don’t lose sight of your goals. Trust that you’re here for a reason—you’re deserving, and you will succeed.
All the best for the year ahead!
