Frene Ginwala Scholarship Recipient Turns Detours into Triumphs

BY: .

From a small township to the halls of a major university, and now with one of UKZN’s prestigious scholarships in hand - Bachelor of Laws student, Ms Minenhle Ngobese, reflected on her journey, describing it as one marked not by easy choices, but by redirection and resilience in the pursuit of her dreams.

When Ngobese who attended Mnyamande Secondary School in Blaaubosch, Newcastle, received news that she had been awarded the Frene Ginwala Scholarship, she knew it was more than recognition - it was a turning point.

The scholarship, awarded to top-performing female students entering their first year, celebrates academic excellence and potential. For Ngobese, it symbolised perseverance and the courage to adapt when life did not go to plan. It also affirmed that her work ethic and determination are seen and valued.

“This award is a testament to my hard work and dedication to academic excellence. It gives me room to focus fully on my studies without worrying about finances. More than anything, it reminds me that hard work does get rewarded.”

“When I received the news, I was overjoyed and relieved. It came at a time when I had to make some difficult academic decisions,” she said.

Despite achieving an extraordinary 93.5% average and earning eight distinctions in her National Senior Certificate exams, Ngobese did not immediately land in the degree of her dreams. While she had hoped to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing, circumstances led her to begin her first year studying Law. 

Rather than let disappointment define her, she focused on doing her best in the present - while planning for a future in healthcare.

“I’ve always wanted to be a nurse, it is my passion and something I have held onto for years. Studying Law was not part of the original plan, but I saw it as an opportunity to keep going, stay in the system, and prepare myself for the transition I want to make,” she said.

Raised by her aunt and brother, Ngobese credits her family’s unwavering support for giving her the strength to navigate this unexpected path.

“My family is proud of my achievements, and I’m grateful for their support. They are looking forward to seeing me succeed in my future endeavours, and I know they’ll be thrilled when I transition to Nursing,” she said.

Now more motivated than ever, Ngobese hopes to one day return to communities like hers, using her training to improve healthcare access and make a lasting difference.

“I have learned that success does not always follow a straight path. Sometimes it is about taking a different road, trusting the process, and staying committed to the bigger picture,” she reflected in closing.

Words: Ayanda Radebe

Photograph: Nkosikhona Gcabashe