Scholarship Recipient Soars for the Sky

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‘Being awarded the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship boosts my confidence and reinforces my belief in my capabilities,’ says Ms Kelisha Pandaram.

The Scholarship - funded by the C G Smith family and named after Mrs C G Smith - provides top-performing female postgraduate students resident in eThekwini an opportunity to study abroad.

Pandaram was awarded a Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree in Marketing Management summa cum laude with six Certificates of Merit and an “A” aggregate this year.

The Scholarship not only acknowledges her accomplishment but also provides full financial support.

‘Throughout my academic journey, I encountered various challenges, including financial constraints and the pressures of excelling academically. To overcome these hurdles, I actively sought scholarships and bursaries that recognised my academic achievements and provided the necessary financial support.’

Currently pursuing her Master of Commerce in Marketing degree, Pandaram considers the scholarship a significant milestone in her academic and professional journey. Her passion, innovation, creativity and business acumen are enhanced by her previous role as Vice-President of UKZN’s Finance Society at the undergraduate level.

‘Through my undergraduate studies in marketing and management, I gained a solid foundation and realised the potential that this field has to make a positive impact on organisations and society as a whole. I have always been intrigued by the power of marketing in influencing sustainable consumer behaviour and driving business success while taking cognisance of the natural environment,’ she said.

Pandaram aspires to leverage her master’s degree qualification to create a significant and valuable influence in the realm of marketing. Her goal is to formulate inventive marketing strategies that not only contribute to the advancement of Higher Education Institutions and the commerce sector but also toward substantial scientific contributions.

‘I hope to enhance my analytical and critical thinking skills, develop expertise in marketing research methodologies, and strengthen my ability to anticipate market trends and consumer needs to assist South Africa in attracting investment from multinationals. I also hope to aid small and medium-sized local enterprises to effectively position themselves competitively within the global market in order to strengthen the country’s economy,’ she said.

Words: Samukelisiwe Cele

Photograph: Albert Hirasen