Natal Portland Cement (NPC) established the NPC Community Trust in 2007 to invest towards the development of areas in which it operates. These are Durban, Newcastle and Port Shepstone. The Trust focuses on the two key sectors of education and entrepreneurial development as it has recognized these as primary drivers of social and economic progress.
Mpathwenhle Manyathela's inspiring journey from Phendukani Full Service High School to earning a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from the University of the Free State is a testament to perseverance and dedication. Supported by NPC from 2019 to 2023, Mpathwenhle's success highlights the transformative power of education and community support. Now undertaking a learnership at Thulisile Bookkeepers and Accountants, Mpathwenhle continues to exemplify the impact of hard work and determination in achieving one's dreams.
Nosipho Buthelezi (20) describes herself as ambitious, focused but sometimes reserved. She dislikes stereotypes about the so-called Ama-Two thousands (the generation born after the year 2000) because, according to her, they often carry negative connotations. “I believe that many people of my generation work very hard and will take this country forward. If I was not dedicated to my studies, I would not have progressed so far academically,” said Buthelezi, a third year Bachelor of Commerce student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Buthelezi formed part of the inaugural recipient group of the NPC Community Trust bursary programme in 2019.
Mchunu, Ntsazana (21) hails from the Oshabeni on the outskirts of Port Shepstone on the KwaZuluNatal south coast. She expected to complete her hospitality studies diploma at the Berea Technical College by June 2021. She finished her matric at the local Mangquzuza High School in 2017. Unfortunately, Mchunu spent the entire year of 2018 at home as she could not afford to enroll at a tertiary institution.
Mabaso Zanele (19) matriculated from Chesterville Secondary High School in 2019. In the same year, she became part of the NPC Community Trust Bursary programme. This enabled her to enrol for a qualification in Business Management at eThekwini College, Springfield Campus. She was born and raised in Mayville. While Mabaso empowered herself with knowledge of managing a business, she also had other career aspirations. “English was my favourite subject in high school.
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