Bonukwenza Thandolwethu Mtshali

Would like to improve healthcare in his community and surrounding rural areas.

Bonukwenza is studying medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT). He matriculated at Kadwa Secondary School in Ballengeich in KwaZulu-Natal.

“We must try to put more effort into building a better future for South Africa. We must look for gaps in our communities and try to fill them.”

Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?

I have a strong desire to help others. I am fascinated by human biology; I am fascinated with anatomy. I aspire to become an oncologist to people affected by cancer. I hope that one day, I will come with advanced ways of treating cancer. Seeing people loose hope after being diagnosed with cancer really touches my heart.

Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?

There are not many medical doctors that came from my school and community. I want to set a good example for learners in my community. The most important people in my life, my parents, inspired me by showing me the importance of dedicating myself to something I want.

What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?

I want to promote equitable access to healthcare. I want to improve healthcare in my community and surrounding rural areas. I think I can achieve that by addressing the challenges faced by local clinics and hospitals.

Where did you complete your schooling? (name of school and area where it is situated) Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.

I completed my schooling at Kadwa Secondary School. It is a school located in a rural area. It has hardworking teachers who also cooperate with parents. The lack of resources holds it back, but despite this challenge, our teachers strive to provide high quality education.

What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?

They are challenging. They require hardworking and a lot of deep thinking, but they are enjoyable once you understand them. They are unique, you can study physical science and maths the whole day without getting tired.

Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?

I think most people give up easily and early. It is very rare for someone to understand maths and science on the first attempt, you must invest your heart in learning them. Some people relax at the beginning of the year and expect to grasp the content as exams or tests approach, ignoring the fact that the workload accumulates.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

They must make use of their teachers and make time for peer study groups. They must start preparing early and always study like they are writing tomorrow.

What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places in higher education institutions?

They must apply as early as possible and apply for something that they want and have passion for. They should have enough information about what and where they want to study by now so that they don’t commit the mistakes that most people commit.

Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?

An achiever is made by hard work, dedication and perseverance. The foundation of it is discipline and positive attitude towards your goals.

A message to South African youth in general?

We must try to put more effort into building a better future for South Africa. We must look for gaps in our communities and try to fill them.

A message to the teachers at your school/s?

I want to thank them for their hard work and supporting me. They contributed a lot towards my matric achievements. I want them to continue working hard and producing more achievers.

If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?

Elon Musk. I would ask him how he achieved so much success and what did it cost him.

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)