The power of guidance: Bursary students reflect on a grounding mentorship session
At Vulamathuba, we believe that economic mobility starts with unlocking human potential. The Vulamathuba Bursary Fund embodies this belief. As part of our broader economic mobility programme, the bursary fund supports students pursuing critical and scarce skills, empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to realise their academic and professional goals.
Beyond financial assistance, the bursary programme offers ongoing support—emotionally, psychologically, and academically—through structured mentorship, ensuring that students are not only able to succeed, but also retain and thrive within the programme.
The mentorship component was developed with one clear goal: to create a safe and empowering space for students to reflect, grow, and feel seen. It connects them with professionals, peer mentors, and facilitators who equip them with tools for personal and academic success. This latest session delivered just that—and more.
Vulamathuba’s Bursary wellness mentorship breaks the mould
In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Week, Vulamathuba Empumelelo flipped the script for its latest bursary mentorship session—literally. Swapping the usual venue for something fresh, the team hosted the session outdoors at Flat Mountain Café in Woodstock on 19 July 2025, under the uplifting theme: “A Touch of Green.” 🌿
And what a breath of fresh air it was.
A change of scene, a shift in energy
Usually held at the Vulamathuba Community Learning Centre, this time the bursary mentorship team decided to take things off-site—a change in environment to spark a change in mindset. Set against the lush greenery and charm of Flat Mountain Café, the space created the perfect atmosphere for reflection, openness, and emotional wellness.
Participants—our talented bursary students—arrived dressed in calming shades of green, ready to unwind, engage, and reconnect.
Wellness, but make it practical
The session was facilitated by Tsakani Makasni, a dynamic youth speaker currently completing her Honours in Geology at the University of the Free State. Known for her real and relatable approach, Tsakani guided students through an impactful session titled: “Stress, Self-Care & Emotional Mastery: Tools for Thriving, Not Just Surviving.”
“When the Vula team approached me to facilitate the session, the timing couldn’t have been better. I had just flown into Cape Town to spend time with my family, and I was excited to connect. These students are truly special—engaged, eager, and focused. I hope the session brought them clarity, comfort, and guidance on their journey.” – Tsakani Makasni, Youth Speaker
From expressive journaling to breathwork and grounding activities, the session blended theory and self-awareness with lived experience.
🌱 Highlights included:
- Good vs toxic stress: understanding the difference
- Emotional regulation strategies (including the 90-second rule)
- “Silent Rant Dump” journaling technique
- “Letter from Future Me” reflection exercise
- Dance and body movement as emotional release
- Five senses grounding practice
- Pre- and post-exam self-care
- Reframing challenges as part of the growth journey
📣 “Mental health is not weakness—it’s a strength you build. Knowing how to care for your mind is one of the most powerful tools you can carry with you.” – Tsakani Makasni, Youth Speaker
The session offered more than advice—it gifted students tools to regulate, reflect, and reset.
Honouring quiet excellence: A moment for Melissa 💚
A highlight of the day was the emotional and well-deserved surprise appreciation for Melissa Chofinal (35) from Reyger Court, a long-time Vulamathuba volunteer and bursary student whose dedication and warmth have touched countless lives.
As her name was announced, Melissa teared up, clearly moved by the recognition. She humbly accepted her award with words that stayed with everyone:
“Serving communities like this is something very close to my heart. I will forever cherish this moment. You never see the network within it, but it’s all within my heart. Being seen and appreciated like this—it’s just heartwarming.” – Melissa Chofinal, Volunteer Honouree
Student reflections: Seen, heard, and recharged
For many of the bursary students, the session was a much-needed reminder to prioritise self-care—especially while juggling academic pressures and personal growth.
Zandile Zingelwa, a bursary student from Goedehoop 25, shared:
“The mentorship session was more than I expected. It was peaceful, powerful, and a reminder of the support around us. The way it was done—outside, honest, uplifting—it made me feel seen. This kind of care motivates me to keep going.” – Zandile Zingelwa, bursary student
What set this apart
This wasn’t just a change of location—it was a shift in how we care, how we connect, and how we prepare our students for the personal challenges that come with academic and career excellence.
It reminded everyone involved that sometimes, the best kind of mentoring happens not just in lessons—but in shared space, silence, movement, and gratitude.
Want to join the Mentorship family?
This mentorship programme is exclusive to Vulamathuba bursary and Matric recipients. If you’re inspired and eager to be part of this journey, applications open annually in November. A formal announcement will be made via Vulamathuba’s official channels.