As part of reigning Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert’s educational advocacy campaign, 10 students from across the country were chosen as bursary recipients for the Natasha Joubert Collective campaign.

The students were awarded bursaries for a comprehensive six-month full-stack web developer bootcamp, courtesy of HyperionDev, Southern Africa’s largest tech education provider, and computer hardware company ASUS.

HyperionDev is a leading provider of coding bootcamps for learners across South Africa, the United Kingdom, North America and Europe.

Its focus is to provide accessible and comprehensive coding education while empowering individuals to launch successful careers in technology.

ASUS is a global technology leader known for innovation in the digital era with a commitment to quality, design, innovation. ASUS delivers a broad range of products such as laptops, desktops, graphic cards, smartphones and more.

Natasha Joubert says that IT and technology remain the top employment sectors for earning potential in our country. And there are currently 44,000 unfilled entry-level digital vacancies across South Africa.

The demand for skilled professionals far outstrip supply, amid a severe skills shortage, exacerbated by deep socio-economic disparities.

Riaz Moola, CEO and founder of HyperionDev, agreed and said: “Tech skills development is imperative for fostering sustainable economic growth and empowering the youth with the necessary tools to thrive.

“Collaborative initiatives like these are examples of how we are getting one step closer to narrowing the digital skills gap in South Africa.”

Participant, Bongane Zwane said: “My experience studying web development has been very fulfilling. Initially, everything seemed difficult and impossible to overcome, but once I started utilising study tools such as YouTube videos, engaging more with mentors and dedicating more time to learning, things began to flow.

“Where it gets a bit challenging, is when you have to solve a specific problem using the coding methods you've been taught. This is where it becomes tricky because you realise that it's not just about learning the coding languages, but also about adopting a new way of thinking. It's about transforming a problem into something that can be solved by writing computer code.”

Bongane Zwane, one of the bursary recipients of the Natasha Joubert Collective bursary. Picture: Miss South Africa Organisation

Johane Neethling said: “So far, I am finding it to be incredibly rewarding. I genuinely enjoy the challenge that comes with each new task, and there's a real sense of fulfilment every time I successfully solve a problem.

“Each accomplishment fuels my excitement about the future and the potential it holds. Overall, this experience is both stimulating and inspiring, and I am eager to see where it takes me.”

Johane Neethling, one of the bursary recipients of the Natasha Joubert Collective. Picture: Miss South Africa Organisation

Nnanana Madisha said: “My experience at HyperionDev has been incredible thus far. The onboarding session was thorough, helping us set up and navigate the student portal efficiently. The support team has been exceptionally helpful and the lessons are well-structured and straightforward. Additionally, mentors are always available to assist whenever needed.”

Nnanana Madisha, one of the bursary recipients of the Natasha Joubert Collective. Picture: Miss South Africa Organisation

Rolivhuwa Funyufunyu said: “So far it is going well, a bit challenging, but it is just amazing to see how much I am growing each day. I am really enjoying it.”

Rolivhuwa Funyunfunyu, one of the bursary recipients of the Natasha Jourbert Collective. Picture: Miss South Africa Organisation

Zethu Mokoena said: “The opportunity to participate in the course is a wonderful opportunity for me.

“My participation in this programme is improving my technical abilities and providing me with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving field of technology.”

Zethu Mokoena, one of the bursary recipients of the Natasha Joubert Collective. Picture: Miss South Africa Organisation

Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. S3 is the official broadcast partner.

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