NEWS FROM THE GROUP CEO

Checking in with a DM Minerals Group® scholarship recipient at the end of their first year, Tharollo Nkosi, a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Johannesburg

"Thank you for investing in my future."

For Tharollo Nkosi, a first-year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Johannesburg, the DM Minerals Group® scholarship has been life-changing.

According to Nkosi, the scholarship made his transition into university "much smoother". He received full funding, which includes tuition, accommodation, and a laptop. This eased the financial burden, allowing him to focus solely on achieving his academic goals.

Coming into university, Nkosi imagined the picture-perfect, unrestrained lifestyle many first-year students look forward to on campus. But the reality of pursuing an academically demanding degree quickly set in. Realising that he would need to buckle down to pursue his degree successfully, he ditched his initial content creator expectations and took full advantage of the resources at his disposal. Hours of studying in the library and his peaceful residence have defined 2025 for the young scholar.

Like many students transitioning from high school to university, the most significant adjustment was independence. "In high school, you're literally given everything, every resource you need to learn", compared to university, where he has had to learn to take full responsibility for his studies by showing up to early morning lectures, submitting assignments on time, and qualifying for examinations.

The transition was made even more challenging when Nkosi had to live apart from his family for the first time as a 19-year-old. This physical separation from his support system required some adjustment.

Orientation remains his favourite memory of the year: a reminder of the excitement and possibility that came with starting a new chapter. Looking ahead, he hopes to join student organisations in his second year and find a better balance between academics and social life. Nkosi has found joy in his coursework, particularly in mechanical drawing and physics, which he touts as the most interesting modules thus far. His first year has already sharpened critical skills he knows will benefit his engineering journey: time management, problem-solving, communication, and the ability to work in a team.

For Nkosi, the DM Minerals Group® scholarship is far more than a financial award. It is a source of motivation. Empowered with the knowledge that there is an organisation that believes in his potential, Nkosi is encouraged to work harder.

When asked what he would like to say to the DM Minerals Group® team, he leads with gratitude: "I'd say thank for investing in my future. Your support has made it possible for me to focus fully on becoming the best version of myself academically and professionally. I intend to make the most of this opportunity and make you proud."

Doctor Motswadire, CEO