15/09/2026
๐Congratulations to Halalisiwe Mathonsi and Alwande Hlongwane, who have been selected as Top 6 finalists in the 2026 SAICA Student Leadership Awards.
Halalisiwe shared: "Being a finalist is incredibly humbling because JCM Future Legends was never started with recognition in mind. We simply saw young boys in our community with so much potential and wanted to create an environment where they could feel loved, supported, valued and encouraged to pursue their dreams. While juggling PGDA, being involved in this project has been incredibly grounding and has given me so much perspective. It reminds me that, beyond the demands of my own journey, there is so much purpose in being able to pour into the lives of others.
We are extremely grateful to SAICA for creating this platform and for giving JCM Future Legends an opportunity to be seen. Looking ahead, I hope to continue growing the initiative, reaching more young people and creating opportunities that allow them to see beyond their circumstances all while pursuing my own career towards becoming a Chartered Accountant. Ultimately, I hope to use what I have been given to create opportunities for others and positively impact the communities around me."
On his achievement, Alwande shared: "Iโm still pinching myself to believe itโs actually true.
Being recognised as a SAICA finalist reflects the hard work behind the scenes with my co-founder, Hydeen Mthembu. Weโre incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to share our story. Iโm also grateful to Mr Ngobese, our lecturer, for assuring us throughout the application process and encouraging us to believe in our vision.
I love getting involved in opportunities like this because I want to show others that age is never a barrier, and that graduation shouldnโt be when you start contributing to society. From selling caps at school to make tuckshop money to baking and selling scones to garages and cafรฉs from the age of 14, Iโve always believed in making the most of what I have , not because I want to be seen as โcoolโ or better than anyone else, but to show others what is possible when you believe in yourself. People may doubt you or your ideas, but they can never take away your passion and ambition.
Iโm extremely grateful to my parents for instilling these values in me and supporting me throughout this journey. It would be a privilege to one day give back even a tenth of what they have given me.
Lastly, to whoever reads this: dream big, be the change you want to see, and never underestimate what you can achieve with what you have today. The future belongs to those who prepare for it today."
