Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy - 2025 Careers Day

On Saturday, 24 May 2025, the Thandulwazi Maths and Science Academy hosted a vibrant and inspiring Careers Day at St Stithians College, bringing together over 650 high school learners with professionals from a range of industries to explore possible career paths and ignite future ambitions.

This annual event, held as part of the Thandulwazi Saturday School Programme, is a key enrichment opportunity designed to expose Grade 9 to 12 learners from under-resourced schools across Gauteng to diverse career options and real-world advice from industry leaders.

This year’s event featured seven dynamic guest speakers, including two remarkable Thandulwazi alumni—one a former Saturday School learner, Miss Mosa Kibe, and the other a graduate of the Intern-Teacher Training Programme, Mr Jafta Motswalo, and a current Thandulwazi Academic Scholarship student, Sanele Gumede, who all shared powerful testimonies of perseverance and success. Their journeys offered living proof of the long-term impact of Thandulwazi’s work, deeply inspiring the learners in attendance.

A highlight of the day was the electrifying keynote address by celebrity and entrepreneur Lusanda Mbane, whose energy and authenticity had the learners completely captivated. She stirred the crowd with a message of self-belief, personal growth, and bold ambition, urging them to “become the best versions of themselves.” Her presence left the audience buzzing with motivation and newfound purpose.

The Careers Day programme also included career exhibitions and interactive sessions led by professionals across diverse fields. Learners were encouraged to engage directly with speakers and exhibitors, ask questions, and explore a range of post-school pathways. Representatives from universities, scholarship funds, and training institutions were on hand to provide practical advice and opportunities.

“We believe that exposure is everything,” said Thandulwazi Learner Programmes Coordinator, Mpho Bili. “Our aim with Careers Day is to broaden horizons, inspire purpose, and equip learners with the knowledge and networks that will help them make informed decisions about their futures.”

The success of the day was made possible by the generosity of many sponsors, who came together to provide meals for all the learners and support the event in countless ways. Special thanks also go to the Girls’ College and Boys’ College students, operations staff, Higher Ground Restaurant, security personnel, cleaning services teams from St Stithians College and our very own Thandulwazi Angel, Khumo, all of whom gave so generously of their time, energy, and resources to make the day seamless and memorable.

“Careers Day meant so much to me”, said Audrey Gwata, a Saturday School learner, “hearing Lusanda Mbane speak really touched my heart—her journey and confidence made me believe that I can also rise above my circumstances and create the life I dream of. She reminded me that it’s okay to dream big, even when things around you seem small. I’ve always wanted a future in fitness, science, and travel, and after Careers Day, I feel even more driven to become a high-performance manager or cabin crew member. The event gave me hope, direction, and the push I needed. I’m truly grateful for this experience!”

Careers Day continues to be a shining example of how St Stithians College and the Thandulwazi Trust are working together to bridge educational divides and build a more equitable future—one learner at a time.