GHS pupil seeks financial support for academic tour to the UK #UKFinance

Sibongakonke Kunene (15), a Grade 9 pupil at Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School (GHS) has been presented with a life-changing opportunity to embark on an international academic tour to the United Kingdom in 2025 and needs your help to make that dream a reality.

She has been selected for the prestigious Academic Achievers Tour for the second consecutive year, due to her outstanding academic performance.

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Sibongakonke’s achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication, driven by the memory of her father, who tragically succumbed to Covid-19 in 2021.

When I was younger, my dad would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, and when I said professions like being an astronaut, pilot or doctor, he would tell me it was all possible, but only through education.

“I want to make him proud,” she said.

Despite facing financial challenges, Sibongakonke said her widowed mother, Zandile, has been her rock, supporting her through grief and encouraging her academic pursuits.

“I want to make her proud too. She has sacrificed so much for me and my siblings,” she said.

Zandile, a single mother of four, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and appealed for public support.

Sibongakonke’s selection is a remarkable achievement, and I believe this tour will open doors for her future.

“Unfortunately, I would not be able to single-handedly sponsor her trip. Any contribution, big or small, would be greatly appreciated,” she said.

Sibongakonke’s academic excellence is complemented by her involvement in sports, cultural activities and her role in the school’s Wind Band as a saxophonist.

Her aggregate consistently exceeds 80%, demonstrating her exceptional academic ability.

Last year, Sibongakonke’s selection for the tour went unrealised due to financial constraints.

This year, her family and community are rallying behind her to make her dream a reality.

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The total cost of the trip stands at R80 000, covering flights and accommodation. She has so far secured R3 600 through generous donations.

Contribute to Sibongakonke’s UK academic tour dreams by donating via her BackaBuddy page: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/sibongas-academic-achievers-uk-tour