On the 6th of January 2016 (Matric results day) we had a laughter-filled chat with Chumisa Yaphi from Makhaza in the Western Cape. She obtained 6 distinctions (including in Maths and Physical Science) in the final exams and is planning on studying Geology or Pharmacy. Chumisa joined IkamvaYouth in Grade 9 and has been attending regularly for four years. Here at IkamvaYouth we couldn’t be prouder of her impressive results!
So, you got very good marks. 6 Distinctions, that’s amazing! Did you know it was going to happen?
No, when I was writing the exam, I wasn’t sure if I was doing great but I expected to get a bachelors pass. I just wasn’t sure what my marks would be. It was a big surprise when I checked my results from my phone and saw I had 6 distinctions.
What do you want to study?
I applied to study Geology or Pharmacy at UCT, UWC and WITS.
You aren’t worried that you’ll get into WITS and have to move far away?
(Chumisa laughs) No I’m not worried. (More laughter) It’s fine. I’ll look at what seems like the better offer and pick that.
What role did IkamvaYouth play for you to get these really good marks?
IkamvaYouth has helped me to be able to express myself in English, and be confident to share my views. It has also improved my computer literacy in terms of how to search for information. IkamvaYouth has also provided me with extra material like answer series study guides, question papers, online videos and material etc. That has helped me improve my grades. IkamvaYouth has given me opportunities to visit different universities to get a better understanding about my career choices. Through tutoring, I have gained the spirit of giving back because I see how dedicated our tutors are, they ensure that they take out their time just to come and help us. I myself also help my peers as much as I can and therefore i have been able to get understanding as I explain as well.
Did you apply for NSFAS?
Yes I did but I also got a scholarship from UCT
Well done! We wish you all the best.
Thank you.
Here are a few words from her mentor, Mike Mulcahy, CEO at Green Cape, when he wrote to IkamvaYouth about Chumisa:
‘I had nothing to do with her success, that was her hard work and the support that she has received from Ikamva, her teachers, her family and her own determination and hard work. I just wanted to say thanks for the opportunity for getting to meet and spend time with her. I am bursting with pride for how well she has done.’
Lloyd Lungu