Graduating cum laude for Ms Kiara Rajcoomar and Ms Nompilo Simelane is proof that hard work and dedication are synonymous with success.
Graduating with her undergraduate degree at the young age of 20, Rajcoomar is continuing with her studies by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Banking and Investment Management.
‘I was motivated to study finance because I am passionate about the economy and how businesses are valued. I have always been interested in foreign exchange, as well as valuations, mergers and acquisitions of companies; wondering how it worked. I then asked for advice in my matric year to understand what would be the best degree to study to obtain a deeper understanding of the business world, and was recommended finance,’ she said.
Looking to the future, Rajcoomar has ambitions of working in the banking sector.
‘I plan to work for the next two years in South Africa at one of the major banking institutions. Once I have gained practical experience, I would like to live overseas and experience living and working in a different country and get the opportunity to travel to as many countries as possible.
Simelane, who is a product of the BCom Foundation programme, says the four-year journey to obtaining her degree has not been easy but graduating cum laude has made it worth it.
‘I battled with mental health which made things hard but there was never a time when I felt like I was on the wrong career path. My final year was hard because I worked two jobs (tutor and student library assistant) but I persevered and made my family proud. The foundation programme taught me discipline. I carry values instilled in me by Dr Joseph Jere, the Foundation Co-ordinator, to this day,’ she said.
The top achiever is currently pursuing an honours in Finance and planning on pursuing a masters next year. ‘My research topic is: Fund Flow and Performance under Different Market Market Conditions in South Africa, which is an interesting topic because my end goal is to have an investment company and my degree will be of great help.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photographs: Abhi Indrarajan
