In a nation where the doors to quality education can transform lives, the annual Golf Days hosted by the University of the Western Cape (UWC) stand as a beacon of hope.
Each swing of the club, each gathering of passionate individuals and corporates, contributes to a greater cause – UWC’s #Access2Success campaign. This initiative aims to bridge the gap by providing bursaries and study aids to academically deserving students, opening doors that may have otherwise remained closed.
Among the beneficiaries of this noble effort is Sonja Jonkers, a shining example of resilience and academic prowess. Sonja, who attended Jan Kriel School in Kuilsriver and received the Ministerial Special Award, ranking among the top 200 matriculants in 2020, epitomises the spirit of determination. Born with physical challenges, she has navigated life from a wheelchair with unwavering determination. Despite the obstacles on her journey, Sonja has excelled academically, successfully graduating with a BA Degree in April 2024.
Every day, she faced the daunting task of attending classes, supported tirelessly by her father, Mr Jakob Jonkers. His steadfast dedication shone through as he accompanied her to each lecture, diligently typing her notes, and assisting with exam preparations.
Sonja describes her dad as an “angel from heaven”. Reflecting on her father's support, Sonja shares, "My dad is my rock; his belief in me kept me going even on the toughest days."
However, Sonja's story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about the transformative power of support and access. Thanks to the #Access2Success initiative, Sonja received visual aid devices in 2023 that promised to revolutionise her academic journey.
Verushka Daniels, Manager of the Office for Students with Disabilities, highlights the significance of this support, stating that "The equipment provided to Sonja not only enhanced her learning experience, but also empowered her to navigate her academic journey with greater ease and confidence."
Sonja's story is just one of many. Behind every bursary granted, and every study aid provided, lies another story of potential unleashed, a dream realised, and a future transformed. The impact of these fundraising initiatives extends far beyond the classroom, shaping communities and fostering a culture of inclusivity and opportunity.
As alumni and friends of the University, we have the power to be the driving force behind such transformative change. By supporting events like the UWC Golf Days and contributing to the #Access2Success campaign, we not only invest in the education of deserving individuals, but also sow the seeds for a brighter, more equitable future. Together, let's swing for access, drive change, and uplift futures.
Each swing of the club, each gathering of passionate individuals and corporates, contributes to a greater cause – UWC’s #Access2Success campaign. This initiative aims to bridge the gap by providing bursaries and study aids to academically deserving students, opening doors that may have otherwise remained closed.
Among the beneficiaries of this noble effort is Sonja Jonkers, a shining example of resilience and academic prowess. Sonja, who attended Jan Kriel School in Kuilsriver and received the Ministerial Special Award, ranking among the top 200 matriculants in 2020, epitomises the spirit of determination. Born with physical challenges, she has navigated life from a wheelchair with unwavering determination. Despite the obstacles on her journey, Sonja has excelled academically, successfully graduating with a BA Degree in April 2024.
Every day, she faced the daunting task of attending classes, supported tirelessly by her father, Mr Jakob Jonkers. His steadfast dedication shone through as he accompanied her to each lecture, diligently typing her notes, and assisting with exam preparations.
Sonja describes her dad as an “angel from heaven”. Reflecting on her father's support, Sonja shares, "My dad is my rock; his belief in me kept me going even on the toughest days."
However, Sonja's story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about the transformative power of support and access. Thanks to the #Access2Success initiative, Sonja received visual aid devices in 2023 that promised to revolutionise her academic journey.
Verushka Daniels, Manager of the Office for Students with Disabilities, highlights the significance of this support, stating that "The equipment provided to Sonja not only enhanced her learning experience, but also empowered her to navigate her academic journey with greater ease and confidence."
Sonja's story is just one of many. Behind every bursary granted, and every study aid provided, lies another story of potential unleashed, a dream realised, and a future transformed. The impact of these fundraising initiatives extends far beyond the classroom, shaping communities and fostering a culture of inclusivity and opportunity.
As alumni and friends of the University, we have the power to be the driving force behind such transformative change. By supporting events like the UWC Golf Days and contributing to the #Access2Success campaign, we not only invest in the education of deserving individuals, but also sow the seeds for a brighter, more equitable future. Together, let's swing for access, drive change, and uplift futures.
