In life − and in our professions − we are reminded time and again that to whom much is given, much is expected. Success is not meant to be hoarded; it is meant to be shared, to inspire, and to multiply.
THIS BELIEF LIES AT THE HEART of the Thuthuka
Alumni Community − a collective born from the idea that Ubuntu creates a ripple effect. When one person is uplifted, they have both the power and the responsibility to uplift others.
ABOUT THUTHUKA
The Thuthuka programme was designed to fund students who are academically deserving but require financial support to pursue their dream of becoming chartered accountants. By pooling contributions from organisations, funders, donors, and individual ‘difference-makers’, the Thuthuka programme ensures that talent and potential are not lost due to circumstance.
But the purpose of Thuthuka extends beyond funding.
It aims to transform the face of the accounting profession so that it reflects South Africa’s diversity in terms of race and gender. It also ensures a healthy, sustainable pipeline of future professionals who will carry this profession forward − keeping it relevant, resilient, and aspirational.
In essence, Thuthuka is not just building careers − it is building legacies.
THE BIRTH OF A MOVEMENT
The Thuthuka Alumni Community
A few passionate individuals, each deeply committed to paying it forward, came together to form what we now know as the Thuthuka Alumni Community. They themselves had been funded, mentored, and supported on their journeys, and they felt compelled to extend the same opportunities and enable the next generation of difference-makers.
Their shared purpose was clear: to inspire success in
all its forms and to create a platform where professionals could give back in meaningful, sustainable ways. Giving back, they believed, could take many shapes − sharing time, imparting knowledge, contributing financially, or simply being advocates for the profession.
A YEAR OF IMPACT
This year, the Thuthuka Alumni Community has truly embodied its ethos of making a difference. Together, members have −
Imparted knowledge through school initiatives and outreach efforts, both individually and collectively
Acted as voices of the profession, sharing their expertise and experiences to elevate awareness and appreciation for the accounting field and SAICA
Mobilised resources, raising funds through initiatives such as GearUp4Thuthuka, personal projects, and collective campaigns within the community
Advocated for the Thuthuka programme, raising awareness so that more people can contribute − because the more the community grows, the greater its impact becomes
Through their contributions − whether mentoring, storytelling, fundraising, or advocacy − Thuthuka Alumni Community members are helping build an accounting profession that is over 130 years strong, rooted in leadership, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The work of the Thuthuka Alumni Community is a living reflection of what it means to care − for people, for the profession, and for the future. It represents a shared belief that success is not measured solely by personal milestones but by the difference we make in others’ lives. They remind us that the profession is not only capable but compassionate − one that values excellence, nurtures growth, and celebrates the ripple effect of
giving back.
JOIN THE RIPPLE
Every ripple begins with a single act of generosity. Whether through time, knowledge, or resources, each of us has the power to create lasting impact.
To learn more about Thuthuka and how you can be part of this movement, please visit − SAICA Website – Thuthuka Alumni.
Author
Daphne Mphaga, SAICA Lead: Integrated Marketing Communication
