The Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting Sciences (PGDAS) is the final qualification needed to be eligible for the first Chartered Accountant board exam. This one-year program is challenging yet essential, preparing students for the professional world. To support our students during this demanding period, we hold an annual lunch to inspire and motivate them to persevere.

On June 5, 2024, the UP Thuthuka team hosted their annual lunch for PGDA Thuthuka beneficiaries. The primary aim of the event was to introduce Thuthuka PGDA students to individuals who have successfully navigated the same path, offering encouragement and motivation for their ongoing PGDA journey. The lunch was held on the last day of PGDA lectures before the students embarked on a 4-week study break in preparation for their June board exam simulation. This simulation helps students get ready for the actual board exam which takes place in January 2025 by familiarizing them with the required responses and module integration.

The event's MC, Tshegofatso Maimela, the 2024 Thuthuka academic trainee, ensured the program ran smoothly. Prof. Madeleine Stiglingh, the UP CA program manager, opened the event by welcoming guests, explaining the event's purpose, and offering encouraging words to the students.

The event featured five categories of guests: the UP team (including the UP Thuthuka team and PGDA module lecturers), the SAICA Thuthuka team, Thuthuka alumni, guest speakers, and ISFAP and Thuthuka PGDA beneficiaries. Each group played a significant role throughout the day.

PGDA lecturers provided students with an opportunity to interact outside the classroom, drawing inspiration and tips for the academic year ahead. The SAICA team was also present, allowing students to meet the people behind the bursary program and build valuable relationships and networks.

The seating arrangement mixed all five guest categories, enabling students to engage with each group and receive diverse advice and perspectives.

The first guest speaker, Dikeledi Mkhize, Senior Manager Financial Analyst for Africa Regions at Standard Bank Group, shared her journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant and the skills required for success. After her speech, students enjoyed a starter and engaged with the guests at their table, accompanied by soft background music.

The second guest speaker, Mr. Robert Zwane, Executive Director of Learning, Development, and National Imperatives at the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) delivered a touching speech on finding one's purpose in the profession. He emphasized the importance of the CA profession beyond just articles and the impact one can make in the world after qualification. His speech was a call to action for students to pave the way for the next generation of CAs.

Following Zwane's speech, students had another networking opportunity over lunch, with table changes to interact with other guests present.

The final guest speaker, Keneilwe Msiza, Head of Consolidations - Group Finance at Discovery Limited, highlighted the importance of recognizing and utilizing available resources. She stressed that the journey requires asking for help when needed, as it is not a solitary effort.

A key takeaway from all guest speakers was that the PGDA journey is unique to each individual, and it is crucial to progress at one's own pace.

To recognize third-year Thuthuka students' achievements, four awards for academic excellence were presented to Sihle Dhlamini, Ntokozo Khumalo, Nqobile Masango, and Hlengiwe Moloi, all Thuthuka beneficiaries. Additionally, Hlengiwe Moloi was honored for her work in starting her own NGO and her involvement in the AWCA initiative at the University of Pretoria, embodying the Thuthuka motto of being an inspiring success.

The event was a pleasant mix of insightful conversations and camaraderie, providing students with the opportunity to network with professionals from various fields and receive valuable advice.