For many young South Africans, the road to qualification is rarely a straight one. In Renate Bowers’ case, the journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) has been shaped by detours, determination, and the quiet, consistent support of the BANKSETA. Her story is a reminder that with the right backing and a resilient spirit, even the longest road can lead to remarkable destinations.
Born in Cape Town in 1992, Renate began her academic career at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in 2011, following her matric year at Kasselsvlei CHS. UWC’s deep-rooted commitment to transformation and social justice aligned closely with Renate’s personal values and aspirations. But like many young people navigating post-school uncertainty, Renate soon found herself making a difficult decision to step away from her studies and pursue work in the hospitality industry.
Over the next eight years, she gained invaluable experience working both locally and abroad. The industry sharpened her people skills, business insight, and emotional intelligence but something was missing. Her heart remained in the world of commerce. By 2021, with a clearer vision and renewed energy, Renate returned to UWC to pursue her dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant.
Coming back to university after nearly a decade away was no small feat. While she embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, the financial pressures of student life presented real obstacles. Like many South Africans returning to study as mature students, Renate faced the challenge of funding not only her tuition but also accommodation and daily living expenses.
This is where the BANKSETA’s support made a meaningful difference. Through a bursary programme, Renate received funding that allowed her to fully engage in her studies without the additional strain of financial uncertainty. For her, this wasn’t just about covering costs; it was about having space to breathe, focus, and thrive.
Supported by her lecturers, peers, and the financial backing of the BANKSETA, Renate enrolled in the Advanced Diploma in Accounting at UWC. Returning to formal education after years in the workplace brought its own hurdles, but Renate’s sense of purpose and the steady support behind her carried her through. She immersed herself in her coursework, knowing she had both personal experience and academic potential working in her favour.
Graduating with her Advanced Diploma in 2023 was a moment of pride and reflection. It marked not only the culmination of years of hard work, but the beginning of a new chapter. Renate is now preparing to pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting in 2025 one step closer to her CA(SA) designation.
Looking back, Renate is deeply appreciative of the support that helped carry her forward. The BANKSETA’s assistance went beyond financial relief; it signaled belief in her potential. For someone coming from a disadvantaged background, this belief matched with practical help meant everything. It allowed her to focus on her future, to visualise her goals, and to keep pushing, even when the journey felt long.
To young people facing similar struggles, Renate’s message is simple but powerful: “Never give up, no matter how hard things get. Keep moving forward, stay surrounded by people who support you, and don’t lose sight of where you’re going.”
Renate’s path reflects what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. Her journey is not just a personal triumph; it shows how targeted, thoughtful support from organisations like the BANKSETA can unlock doors, build futures, and help South African talent shine.
As she moves closer to her qualification and future career in the accounting field, Renate carries the lessons of resilience, community, and self-belief. With the BANKSETA by her side, she’s equipped to uplift not only her own life, but the lives and livelihoods of those her work will reach.