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Education should never be determined by wealth. That’s the belief driving Feenix and its partner, Visa South Africa, who recently hosted a powerful gathering in Sandton to celebrate bursary students and alumni whose journeys demonstrate the life-changing impact of access to higher education.
The Visa–Feenix Alumni Event hosted at The Capital on Empire in Sandton on 4 September 2025 marked a milestone in a partnership now in its third year, with the first group of Visa bursary students graduating in 2025. The celebration brought together VISA bursary recipients, learnership learners, VISA staff and leadership, and Feenix staff for a day of inspiration, networking, and knowledge-sharing. More than just an event, it laid the foundation for the new Visa Alumni Network, a community designed to connect graduates, students, and mentors for ongoing support and growth.
For bursary recipient Musa Mkhize, the partnership between Visa and Feenix unlocked opportunities that once felt out of reach.
“This bursary gave me the freedom to focus on my studies and believe in my future again. Now I have the chance to keep growing beyond the learnership into someone who is ready for the workplace and the future,” says Musa.
A student panel titled From Access to Impact showcased the voices of bursary students as they shared their journeys, challenges, and aspirations. Their personal stories highlighted the ripple effect of support — not just for individuals, but for the communities they carry forward with them.
The event was guided by Mohammed Shaheen, CEMEA Early Careers Lead, who travelled from Dubai to serve as MC. His presence underscored Visa’s deep commitment to empowering young South Africans through education at the highest level. By setting the tone from the outset, Mohammed created an environment where meaningful dialogue flowed naturally between students and professionals throughout the day.
Visa leaders also participated in a fireside chat on The Power of Networking, sharing candid stories about how small acts of connection shaped their careers. The message was clear: preparing graduates for the world of work goes beyond academics; it’s about building confidence, networks, and resilience.
One of the most memorable moments came from keynote speaker Sizwe Ndlovu, the first Black South African to win Olympic gold in rowing, and now a coach at the University of Johannesburg.
Ndlovu delivered an unforgettable keynote. Drawing from his own journey, he reminded us of the importance of “building your crew” and surrounding yourself with the right people who help you grow and carry you forward. His message tied beautifully into the theme of the day, reinforcing the power of networks and shared effort.
He shared lessons drawn from his athletic career: discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, and connected them to the students’ journeys. He even passed his gold medal around the room, posing for photos with attendees and leaving them with a tangible reminder of what is possible with hard work and support.
“Both Feenix and Visa are committed to building a more inclusive future where all young people can thrive and are able to fulfil their potential and positively contribute toward a healthier society regardless of wealth,” says Bongiwe Nkosi, Business Partnerships Coordinator at Feenix.
By combining Visa’s resources with Feenix’s platform and expertise, the partnership has supported 8 students since it began in 2023 and created pathways that extend well beyond graduation. The newly launched Alumni Network will ensure this impact continues to grow, offering mentorship, professional development, and peer support long after studies are completed.
“When organisations unite behind a shared vision, we don’t simply amplify our reach, we transform lives. This partnership gives us the collective power to unlock opportunities that no single entity could create alone, especially for young South Africans striving to fulfil their potential,” says Cara-Jean Petersen, CEO of Feenix.
