Bursary educates, empowers young women

Hlongwane chats about the effects the bursary had on her life, its capacity to nurture exceptional individuals, and her plans to change her country for the better.

How did you end up at St Mary’s?

Hlongwane: I went to primary school in Soweto and our school received regular visits from a reading programme. I loved reading and, through the programme, met Sheila Boardman who was a foundation donor. We spent some time together during the reading sessions and I told her I was desperate to be a pilot one day. She made a promise to me that she’d do her best to place me in a good high school.

Sure enough, years later just before I started high school, I was called to the headmistress’s office, who told me there was a lady on the phone wanting to speak to the little girl who had wanted to be a pilot. Susan and I connected again, and she invited me to have an interview at the school.

What was the interview process like?

Hlongwane: The interviews were very intimidating. I could hardly speak English, and completely flunked my entrance exams because I was so nervous. At my school in Soweto I’d never been able to receive one-on-one attention from teachers, so my maths skills were way below average. Luckily, St Mary’s saw potential, and accepted my application anyway.

How did things change when you were awarded the bursary?

Hlongwane: My whole life changed overnight. My mom passed away when I was 12, so I’d been living with my aunt in Soweto, but somehow felt I didn’t really have a home of my own – and then suddenly I did. I was set up in the boarding house, and the other boarders accepted me like a sister. I had a home and a family, and I formed the most incredible friendships. Although the other girls in the boarding house were interested in where I came from, I was never made to feel like an outsider – I was just another St Mary’s girl.

In terms of academics, I was suddenly given the attention I’d been craving. The teachers took the time to work with me and improve my English and Maths – they were completely dedicated. Soon enough, my Ds and Es were turning into As and Bs.

Looking back, what did winning the bursary mean to you?

Hlongwane: With no disrespect to the amazingly strong women in this country, I think the trajectory of my life would’ve been completely different. I might have matriculated – although there’s a chance I would’ve failed – and then I’d have started looking for a job. I’d probably have a baby (or two) by now, and would have had no hope of ever following my dreams and becoming the woman I want to be. Being awarded the bursary pushed me to think further and hope for more.

Through St Mary’s, I was given the opportunity to apply to several universities, as well as have guidance counselling to pin down exactly what I wanted to do. I’m now studying a BA at Wits, and I’m passionate about politics and philosophy.

What are your hopes for the future?

Hlongwane: I want to be the next public protector and tackle corruption head-on. I know what poverty feels like, and I also know that corruption has the most profound effect on the most vulnerable sector of our population. We need new leadership in this country, and I hope, in some small way, I can help facilitate that process.

If possible, I’d also like to become a donor to the St Mary’s Foundation one day, to give back what was given to me. Through the foundation, I was given an opportunity few girls from my background will have – and I never take that for granted. I want to become a truly meaningful member of society and be a part of the change that drives education in this country.