Top matric achiever Nondumiso Sangweni sets sights on accountancy career

Nondumiso Sangweni of Lefhereng Secondary School approached her matric year with a clear goal in mind: to pursue a career in accounting.

Determined to become a chartered accountant and eventually open her own firm, she handled the pressures of heavy workloads and daily exams with tenacity and focus, transforming academic challenges into stepping stones to her professional goals.

The 18-year-old said that her highs came from confidently tackling her exams from the start of the year through to the finals, while the lows were the intense stress and pressure she felt during exams. There were moments she questioned whether all the effort was worth it, but in the end, it clearly paid off.

Her determination paid off, with Nondumiso consistently ranking among the top learners in her class. She was recognised as one of the top five performing learners in Grade 12, an achievement she describes as “an incredible experience. All those late nights and early mornings were so worth it.”

Beyond the results, her matric journey tested her in ways no grade could measure. 

“My results don’t show the tears, the doubts, or the mental health struggles. They don’t show how I learned to balance everything while staying focused on my goals. This year taught me that I’m tougher and smarter than I thought,” she said.

Looking ahead, Nondumiso hopes to study Accountancy at the University of Johannesburg. She dreams not only of financial success but also of giving back to her community. 

“I want to build my own practice one day, but also use my skills to help others,” she added.

She shared some practical advice for the Class of 2026, urging them to stay focused, discover a study routine that works for them, and remember to take moments to breathe. She emphasized the importance of managing time, taking breaks to prevent burnout, and trusting in their own abilities.

For Nondumiso, the 2025 matric year was not just a test of academic ability, but of perseverance, resilience, and self-discovery. Through triumphs and challenges alike, she has proven that with clarity of purpose and dedication, obstacles can become opportunities, dreams, and realities.

The Star

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