Mopani Mkandawire (United Kingdom, WK 03 - 05)

What years did you attend Waterford Kamhlaba? (What forms/year group?)

Form 2 to form 4, 2003 to 2005

Please tell us what you have done or are doing at the moment? (E.g. what you studied and what field you are currently working in)

I studied Aerospace Technology with Pilot Studies in University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. I now work in Lloyds Banking Group as a Systems Manager for the Internal Audit function. I am also a Motivational Speaker for youth & young adults. I teach them how to use their mindset to improve their performance in and outside of school.

Could you tell us what inspired you to pursue your career path.

For Lloyds Banking Group I wanted to improve my financial literacy so I went to work for the Bank. As a motivational speaker I learned content that changed my life and I wish I knew when I was younger. So I now share it with the youth.

 

Did Waterford in any way play a role in your career path choice? If yes: then what has that role been.

Waterford did not play a role directly to this career path. However it played what I believe is an even bigger role. That is it taught me life skills and a leadership mentality like no other school I had come across. E.g. managing your own pocket money, living without parents, travelling alone, relationship building, managing school work and daily life hustle without mom & dad.

 

What advice would you have for aspiring students who would want to be involved in
similar areas of expertise?

Make an impression and smash those grades because when you start with better grades now it can be like a snowball effect in what sort of places you end up in the future. Study something related to the Financial Industry once you get to University or IB if possible. Do a work placement while in University. Over summer or placement year. Learn to network and make friends. It’s not only about performance but who you know. But be a good friend, not a fake friend.

 

Do you have any fond memories of Waterford? Could you possibly share one with us and could we also ask you to send us one or two pictures of your time at WK?

I have many memories. Within the first two nights of boarding in Ekukhuleni hostel we started pillow fights after lights out. It at first started in small waves of attacks. The waves gradually grew during the night. It ended up being a Lord of the Rings style showdown between the two boy’s corridors into the bathroom area. We even had a run up. It was warfare! Was so fun! But we all got detention. The lieutenants (the people who lead the activity) got soft & hard labour. I was so scared my mom would think I’m a fool for getting into detention within 2 days of school. Was worth it though but would not advise getting in trouble multiple times.

 

Most embarrassing moment at Waterford?

Probably being wedged by my own friends in the early hours of the morning. It was in fashion. Everyone got one.

 

WK crush?

Haha quite a few. Some of them are now great friends today. But you wouldn’t know them.

What’s your favorite ’90s jam?

Will Smith – Will 2K

 

Who was in your WK #squad (friend group)?

Alfonce Chitate, Manqoba Shabangu, Chiunde Mwanza, Nabil A. Bala, Toshan Patel, Alex Wall, Andrew Hammond, & Tefo Remy Lekay

 

Favourite teacher/Most hilarious teacher?

Favourite teacher – Mr King. Most hilarious teacher – Mr Pontuti

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