Omphemetse Sothomela, a third-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) student at the University of the Free State (UFS), has been selected as one of 16 recipients of the 2025 Abe Bailey Travel Bursary.  Sothomela described this accomplishment as a testament to his consistency, persistence, and commitment to leadership. “This opportunity means a lot to me as it is the evidence I needed to show me that I am in the right direction towards destiny,” he explained. According to Sothomela, there were several reasons that motivated him to apply for this opportunity. Firstly, he explained that he was inspired by some of the previous recipients of this bursary, therefore this was an opportunity to immerse himself in the same pool. In addition, he highlighted that this achievement ties into a short-term goal he set for himself this year, which is internationalisation in the context of global experience. 

Prof Vasu Reddy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at the UFS, echoed these sentiments, indicating, “This opportunity is more than travel. It is about broadening perspectives and building bridges. Therefore, Sothomela is taking a bold step towards global citizenship.” In addition, Prof Reddy, who serves as the Chair of the university’s Abe Bailey Travel Bursary selection committee, said, “Sothomela stood out for his exceptional academic record and leadership beyond the lecture halls. Beyond Moot competitions, he was a KovsieFM radio presenter and a mentor at House Tswelopele, and he believes that the law is to be a project of change and transformation. Therefore, his selection affirms that commitment to impact.”

Experiencing the British culture

Travel for the 2025 cohort of recipients will be from 27 November 2025 until 19 December 2025, commencing in Cape Town before departing to the United Kingdom (UK). During this period, the group will be exposed to British culture by travelling to parts of the UK, including London, Oxford, and Edinburgh. According to Sothomela, apart from representing the UFS, the opportunity to experience British culture is exciting for several reasons. Firstly, this marks his first time travelling outside the country, therefore he is excited to see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and to engage with members of parliament. 

In addition, Sothomela expressed his intention to use this opportunity to refine his leadership skills, learn about international relations – specifically between South Africa and the UK – and to establish long-lasting relationships with the people he will meet. Furthermore, he indicated that this opportunity not only promises immense personal growth, but it also has the potential for professional development. “I am convinced that professionals must be knowledgeable about the broader spectrum of the world in order to shape the future. The Abe Bailey Travel Bursary is one of the steps to get there, as it is known for aligning one to view the world differently,” he said.