In the world of academia, it’s often challenging to balance the rigours of a professional career with personal passions. However, Boitumelo Kuzwayo CA(SA) has mastered this delicate equilibrium. As she navigates her role in higher education, she also finds time to pursue her love for cycling. In this captivating interview, Boitumelo shares her insights into her academic responsibilities, the influence of her educational background, and her extraordinary journey into the world of cycling.
JUGGLING TEACHING AND LEARNING
As Deputy HOD, Boitumelo Kuzwayo oversees the Department of Commercial Accounting’s teaching and learning (T&L) programme at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Her role encompasses accreditation, alignment with professional bodies, and ensuring that students have a wide range of opportunities within the accounting profession. She also emphasises the importance of preparing students for the demands of employers in the field. Boitumelo plays a pivotal role in creating a knowledge-rich T&L environment, collaborating with year chairs and professional bodies to maintain academic excellence.
FROM EDUCATION TO EMPOWERMENT
Boitumelo’s educational journey has deep roots. Raised in a family that valued education as a key to unlocking one’s future, she has carried this belief into her academic career. Her approach centres on empowerment, relevance, and the constant pursuit of making a difference. She engages with professional bodies and employers to ensure that her department’s curriculum stays aligned with industry needs.
CYCLING AGAINST THE ODDS
Boitumelo’s journey into the world of cycling is as inspiring as it is determined. Despite not having ridden a bike in her youth, she decided to learn in 2020. Her motivation? The desire to participate in cycling tours while travelling and to complete an Ironman triathlon. This newfound passion came with its fair share of challenges, including bike theft and a fear of falling. However, her dedication to making a difference through her cycling journey and her love for the sport triumph over adversity.
BALANCING ACT
Balancing a demanding professional life with a love for cycling requires discipline and structure. Boitumelo follows a strict training routine, often teaming up with accountability partners. Knowing her strengths and weaknesses, she prioritises morning workouts and acknowledges that every small effort counts, even on busy days. Her commitment to exercise not only benefits her cycling but also boosts her productivity at work.
LESSONS FROM THE SADDLE
Cycling has imparted valuable life lessons to Boitumelo. It has taught her the art of time management and the importance of leading a balanced life. Her endorphin-filled rides instil a sense of achievement, which she translates into setting and achieving small milestones in both her professional and personal life. Discipline and prioritisation have become her guiding principles.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Boitumelo envisions a future where her impact transcends both academia and cycling. In the cycling world, she hopes to inspire more women to take up the sport and aspires to complete an Ironman 70.3. In academia, she aims to obtain her PhD, becoming a thought leader with the power to influence positive change in society and education.
IF BIKES HAD PERSONALITIES…
Boitumelo’s bike would be petite yet energetic, mirroring her own dynamism. It would exude the quiet determination of a small dog with boundless energy, much like a Jack Russell terrier.
CONCLUSION
Boitumelo story is a testament to the possibility of living a multidimensional life where passions and professional excellence not only coexist but thrive in harmony. Her journey inspires us all to strive for balance and to chase our dreams with unwavering determination.
Author
Sharon Manzini, Digital Publishing Intern at SAICA
