Passionate about the law
DESPITE being indecisive about the career path she would follow after finishing school, Sibusisiwe Msweli was always drawn to the legal field.
The Bachelor of Law (LLB) student from Richards Bay says she always knew she wanted to pursue a career as a lawyer.
'Since I was a kid, I dreamed of becoming a lawyer, and over time I realised I dreamed of it not because it was one of the most highly regarded careers, but because it was something I was passionate about,' said Sibusisiwe.
She said her decision to study law was based on the belief that she can make a difference within the legal system.
'As a child I always believed the legal sector was for men but I have learned that gender does not matter.
'Since the majority of law firms are owned by men, I aspire to open a femaleowned law firm one day.
'In my experience, not many people have access to pro bono legal counsel. 'Many people mistakenly believe lawyers are costly. It is these economically disadvantage people who I wish to assist,' she said.
Sibusisiwe credits her father as one of her role models, who always pushes her to excel.
'Every morning I wake up and thank God that I still have my dad because, honestly, he is half of me. Despite all that he has endured, he still manages to support me.'
Studying with the assistance of a Hillside Aluminium bursary, she also expresses gratitude for the opportunity and financial support to be able to fulfill her dreams.
'One of the most important aspects of my journey has been the support I have received. Although I have questioned my path at times, the support I have received from my family, friends, tutors, lecturers and other students has been incredible.
'The bursary has been a great help to me, but not only financially; I get a lot of motivation from South32's bursary manager who regularly follows up on my progress.
'This keeps me motivated and reminds me to complete all my modules. It has been a great relief for me, knowing my fees are taken care of and I can just focus on my studies,' said Sibusisiwe.
Education is key
Hillside Aluminium, which has invested millions into the education of thousands of students, said the bursary programme is part of ongoing efforts to implement community investment plans aimed at making a difference in local communities and the lives of its employees.
Through the bursary, they support the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) and graduate programmes aimed at empowering the youth in the Stem field.
'As South32, one of our key aims is to make a tangible difference in the lives of our communities. When we think of education, we are reminded of the wise words from former president Nelson Mandela, when he once said: ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world',' said Hillside's vice-president of operations Calvin Mkhabela.
'Education is important for our country. ‘It’s important for our communities. But more than that, it’s important for the individual who chooses to study. And it is for this reason that we are committed to supporting young people through our bursary initiative,' said Mkhabela.