Each student you support has the potential to become a beacon of hope
Wits Australian Post Graduate Scholarship awardees captured on the steps of the Great Hall with major donors Philip and John Zylstra during their recent visit to Wits. Top L – R: Fundraising Director – Peter Bezuidenhoudt, alumnus and major donor – Philip Zylstra, Vice-Chancellor – Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Wits Australia representative – Lawrence Jackson and major donor John Zylstra. Bottom L-R: Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Lynn Morris, four of the ten awardees – Aimee Piketh, Lindokuhle Dlamini, Khanyisile Ndlovu and Simone Gallant.
Education is the great equalizer. It is a powerful catalyst for change, breaking down barriers and opening doors of opportunity. By investing in the education of deserving students at the University of the Witwatersrand, your alma mater, we can uplift not only their lives but also the entire nation. Each student you support has the potential to become a beacon of hope, a leader who will inspire others and shape a brighter future for South Africa.
The Wits Australian Post Graduate Scholarships totalling R1,5million and managed by the Wits Australian Board of Directors awarded ten students an opportunity to fulfil their post graduate dreams. Simone Gallant (23) and Aimee Piketh are two of the fortunate students who are making an impact in broader society in the sciences with both studying for a Master of Science Degree in Medicine.
“I have seen first hand the challenges faced by families who on a regular basis are reliant on health care facilities for chronic conditions. Therefore, my focus is on the provision of exceptional healthcare for all patients at our hospitals. I want to make a difference where I can,” Aimee Piketh.
Simone Gallant, “This bursary will help achieve my goals in finishing my masters degree in breast cancer research. My study focuses on improving breast cancer treatment and understanding the variation within cancer cell lines. It offers insight into improving hormone therapy and aid in giving cancer patients the appropriate care as well as create awareness into the importance of early screening of breast cancer especially in underdeveloped communities”.
Your generosity has the power to transform lives. Your donation, no matter the size, will send a powerful message to these students, letting them know that they are not alone, that their dreams matter, and that their aspirations are worth fighting for. Just as it was done for Simone and Aimee, let’s create a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond the lecture rooms. We urgently need your support to help close this gap and unleash the potential for more financially disadvantaged students. Your tax-deductible gift will transform lives and open the door to a brighter future unlocking their full potential.
Please donate by 30 June to help more students like Simone and Aimee unleash their potential.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, PHD, MASSAf, FRS
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
University of the Witwatersrand
Philip Mayers AM
Chairperson
Wits Australian Board of Directors
