I am Lindelani Mabuyakhulu, who was one of the lucky students to have received a bursary from the UYDF. Firstly, I would like to thank the Umthombo Youth Development Foundation for tackling the issue of shortages of healthcare professionals in rural areas and sponsoring unprivileged students from rural areas.
Having my tuition fees paid was the best thing that happened to me - it is every student's dream. I would like to thank you for the amazing work that you have done in investing in me. The generous contribution has lifted the burden on struggling families like mine. I could sleep well at night knowing that everything was taken care of.
After receiving funding from the UYDF, my marks improved as I could focus more on my studies. I completed my Pharmacy degree at UKZN in the minimum time, a rare accomplishment for a rural student. However, this was possible due to the financial and mentoring support I received from the UYDF.
Coming from a disadvantaged background and having experienced financial challenges in my life, I am determined to play a role in making education a possibility for other individuals like me.