The University of Pretoria (UP) hosted a special meet-and-greet between the Hillensberg Trust bursary recipients, representatives of the Trust, the UP Department of Institutional Advancement’s Fundraising Division and the UP Financial Aid team, celebrating a partnership that continues to transform lives through education.

Since 2017, the Hillensberg Trust has donated nearly R22 million to UP, supporting 72 missing middle students – those who do not qualify for government funding, but are unable to afford the full cost of tertiary education. This support allows recipients to focus on their studies without the heavy burden of financial stress.

“Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to change lives and shape the future,” said Dagmar Kahn, Senior Development Specialist in UP’s Fundraising Division. “The ripple effect of the Hillensberg Trust’s generosity will be felt in families, communities and across the country. It’s true impact is not measured in rands alone, but in dignity restored, hope created and futures changed.”

The event provided an opportunity for students to share their personal journeys of resilience and perseverance. Many spoke about the importance of family support, asking for help when needed and holding onto their goals despite adversity.

The students present shared powerful testimonies of how the bursary has impacted their academic journeys and personal lives.

Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg, a first-year BDrama student, described how the bursary kept him in school when his family could no longer afford tuition:

“At the beginning of the year, I thought I would have to drop out because of financial difficulties. When I got the email from the Hillensberg Trust, I ran to tell my mother and she cried. Thanks to this bursary, I don’t have to worry about financial problems; I can focus on my studies. And I’ve even discovered a love for lighting design and voiceover acting. It opened a whole new world for me.”

Nhlavutelo Hlungwani, a third-year Diagnostic Radiography student, said:

“The bursary has helped with my mental health because I can focus on my studies without worrying about finances. I know I have a humanitarian fund family behind me who always support me academically and personally.”

These stories illustrate the broader impact of the bursary beyond academics. Students’ families experience relief and communities’ benefit as graduates enter professions that make a tangible difference in society.

Reflecting on the occasion, Lynne Fišer, Director of Progressive Grant Making, said:

“It is always inspiring meeting and listening to students who achieve success regardless of often very difficult personal circumstances. Achieving against odds is an incredible endurance trait that can stand one in good stead for life and often help in mastering the very careers the students are studying towards pursuing. Thank you to the bursary recipients for bravely sharing their stories.”

Fišer also highlighted the critical role of UP’s Financial Aid team and departmental representatives in ensuring deserving students are selected:

“On behalf of the Hillensberg Trust, we are privileged to facilitate funding to ease students’ financial burdens so they can concentrate on achieving their very best academic results… The importance of the role of the Financial Aid team and UP departmental representatives is critical. UP manages this process well. Well done.”

The event closed with word of thanks to the Hillensberg Trust for its continued support of UP students and a reminder that behind every bursary is a student with a story – and behind every success is someone who chose to care.