July 2026.
Sinegugu Tshona, a recent graduate from Noupoort, has built a strong academic record and is establishing himself as an emerging young entrepreneur, supported by a local bursary programme.
Awarded the Noupoort Wind Farm Bursary in 2025 during his final year of a Diploma in Financial Information Systems at Walter Sisulu University, Sinegugu is now pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting, also supported through the programme. But his journey was not without its challenges.
Before the bursary, SInegugu relied on NSFAS funding, with his mother regularly sending money from home to cover the shortfall.
“This bursary has meant a lot to me. My mother could finally focus on my younger siblings without worrying about sending me money every month,” he said.
With that weight lifted, he finished his diploma with 11 distinctions and channelled his newfound focus into innovation. He established MoneyMind Solutions, a fintech start-up aimed at improving financial accessibility for informal businesses, and developed Hempisphere Solutions, an eco-conscious concept using hemp as an alternative to plastic. Both ideas earned him national recognition, a top-25 finish at the TuksNovation Standard Bank Fintech Challenge, selection into the Impact Nexus Cohort 2025, and an invitation to pitch at the TIA IP Commercialisation Workshop in Pretoria.
“The bursary eased my schooling experience to an extent where I didn’t have to think about finances all the time. I had more time to myself which gave me more time to be innovative,” he said.
Launched eight years ago, the bursary programme supports both current matric learners and students already enrolled at tertiary institutions. It is awarded based on academic performance and financial need, with applicants required to be Noupoort residents from households earning a combined annual income of no more than R350,000 per year.
In addition to financial support, the wind farm is providing local high school learners with hands-on assistance for online applications to universities and TVET colleges. Through its Economic Development Office, learners can access guidance to complete their applications accurately and on time, ensuring that those who qualify for further education are not left behind.
“This intervention responds to a growing challenge where learners achieve bachelor passes in matric but fail to transition into higher education, ultimately contributing to youth unemployment in the area,” said Salzonia Raman, Social Performance Officer for Noupoort Wind Farm.
Learners who secure placement at a tertiary institution will also be eligible to apply for the bursary programme. The bursary drive will take place from 13 July to 24 July 2026, with applications remaining open until 30 September 2026.