“Stop settling for things you know you do not like,” and “Loving what you do can open doors for you” – these are saying that resonate with Thuso Lempetje from Bloemfontein, who graduated against all odds with a Bachelor of Management Leadership (BML) degree from the University of the Free State Business School.
He was among the scores who attended the autumn graduation ceremony during in April.
After finishing matric in 2010, Lempetje (30) worked as a cleaner at the Centre for Business Dynamics from 2012 to 2014, hoping to study one day. An avid reader, he often borrowed books from Danie Jacobs, former manager of the centre. Mostly business-related, the books motivated Lempetje to understand the world of business.
His breakthrough came when he was offered the opportunity to join the Management Development Programme (MDP). He seized the chance to supplement his matric certificate with another NQF level.
His motivation to continue studying was boosted by his exposure to students from all walks of life and age groups in the business school. Taking on the BML was not easy, particularly since Lempetje did not have the extensive work and management experience for work-related assignments like his peers. As some of the modules required practical experience, Lempetje was forced to dig deep and to open up his curiosity to how things work in the business world.
Currently an assistant officer at the business school, he dreams of doing his master’s degree in Development Studies. Working at the business school has grown his interest in entrepreneurship and development.
His advice to students and anyone who wishes to study, is that you should never link age to studying, and regardless of your age – your brain is never too rusty to study. He adds that, studying really does open the mind to new and innovative ideas.
“There is a lot of motivation in the UFS Business School, as it gives opportunities to adults who never thought they would have a degree,” he says.
“Seeing older people study and work while also parenting, shows that there is more to life than the limitation we set ourselves by saying that we are too old to study, or we are too busy for it. Once you finish, you realise that you can actually do this, and you stop settling for things you know you don’t like.”
