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A commitment to personal growth and entrepreneurial development has earned a University of the Free State student national recognition in a highly competitive financial literacy programme

Samkelo Mngomezulu, Chairperson of the Black Management Forum at the University of the Free State, distinguished himself in the 2026 Momentum Motheo Financial Education Programme. The initiative was implemented nationally by Enactus South Africa through the Zizi Institute in partnership with Momentum Group.

Reflecting on his achievement, Mngomezulu emphasises the importance of financial literacy for young people entering the professional world.

"Entering the professional world without financial literacy is a barrier that too many from our background face. Participating in the Motheo Programme helped bridge that exact gap, showing the vital importance of smart budgeting, credit health, and early investing. This achievement reflects what is possible when young people look beyond traditional academics and embrace practical tools for growth. I hope my journey inspires others to take advantage of these life-changing initiatives."

His achievement places him among the top-performing participants in a programme designed to strengthen financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and responsible decision-making among young South Africans.

Rising above strong competition

Through Enactus on the University of the Free State Bloemfontein Campus, 22 students registered to participate in the Momentum Motheo Financial Education Programme. Registration was open to all registered students at the University of the Free State, regardless of their affiliation with Enactus or any other student organisation. The initiative was coordinated by the Enactus leadership team and faculty advisers. Participants joined students from several institutions, including the Central University of Technology, for the programme's initial training sessions. The Enactus team at the University of the Free State also arranged transport and catering to support student participation.

Participants subsequently embarked on a structured learning journey focused on financial education and entrepreneurship. Among the University of the Free State cohort, one participant emerged as a standout achiever, ultimately being named the Free State provincial winner and securing third place nationally in the Momentum Motheo Programme.

The programme attracted participants from universities, TVET colleges, community organisations, and youth structures across South Africa. To progress beyond the initial learning phase, participants were required to achieve high completion rates and submit both a written assignment and a video presentation for evaluation. Provincial finalists were selected based on their performance before advancing to national recognition.

Building financially empowered future leaders

The Momentum Motheo Financial Education Programme aims to equip young South Africans with practical financial knowledge that can support informed life choices and entrepreneurial success. According to programme organisers, the initiative reached thousands of participants through face-to-face, blended, and self-study learning models.

The collaboration between Momentum Group, the Zizi Institute, and Enactus South Africa reflects a shared commitment to developing financially capable and entrepreneurial young leaders who can contribute positively to their communities and the broader economy.

For the University of the Free State, Mngomezulu's achievement demonstrates the value of creating opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom. His success highlights the impact of combining academic development with leadership experience, entrepreneurship, and practical skills training.

A university committed to student excellence

Achievements such as these illustrate how students can flourish when given access to platforms that challenge them to grow personally and professionally.

As universities increasingly seek to prepare graduates for complex social and economic realities, opportunities that encourage financial literacy, leadership, and entrepreneurship are becoming essential components of student development.

Mngomezulu's accomplishment stands as an example of what can be achieved when talent, dedication, and opportunity intersect. It also reinforces the University of the Free State's commitment to developing graduates who are equipped to make informed decisions, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and build responsible societal futures.