In the heart of the Faculty of Management, Commerce, and Law at the University of Venda, in the Department of Business Information Systems, a young student has emerged as a shining star. Pir Sabnam, a third-year BCom Business Information Systems (BIS) student, whose education focuses on the intersection of business and technology, of business and technology, preparing her to effectively contribute to the field, stands as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the power of a dream. Her journey from navigating complex academic challenges to becoming the Best Overall student of the Vice-Chancellor’s Student Academic Excellence Awards at the university is nothing short of inspiring.
Overcoming Academic Hurdles
Every success story has its trials, and for Pir, the second year of her academic journey presented a formidable challenge. A complex systems analysis project tested her limits, requiring a deep understanding of advanced technical concepts and their seamless integration into functional designs. The daunting scope of the project, coupled with tight deadlines, seemed almost insurmountable.
But Pir tackled it head-on. She broke down the overwhelming task into manageable pieces, sought guidance from her lecturers and peers, and invested extra hours mastering system design and data analysis. Her participation in study groups proved invaluable, transforming confusion into clarity and helping her thrive in a collaborative environment.
“I realised that success lies not just in understanding the material but in systematically solving problems and managing time effectively,” she reflected. This approach not only helped her overcome the project but also equipped her with lifelong skills in teamwork, discipline, and problem-solving.
The Pillars of Success
Pir’s achievements stem from a blend of hard work, effective time manage-ment, and a balanced approach to life. Her meticulous schedules ensured she could excel academically while also nurturing her mental and physical well-being.
“Discipline and balance have been key,” she shared. “I make time for my studies, self-care, and even moments of relaxation. Success, I believe, is a product of harmony in life.”
Her resilience is fuelled by the support of her family, particularly her father, who has been her greatest inspiration. “Despite our financial struggles, my family’s belief in me keeps me going. They’ve sacrificed so much, and I want to make them proud,” she says with heartfelt gratitude.
A Vision for the Future
For Pir, success is not just about personal achievements but also about giving back. She said her ultimate goal is to create opportunities for underprivileged students, ensuring that financial or social barriers do not hinder their dreams. Her aspiration to bridge the gap between busi-ness and technology is matched by her desire to uplift others and contribute to the community.
Words of Wisdom
Pir’s advice to her peers and aspiring students is simple yet profound: “Persevere through chal-lenges. Remember your family’s sacrifices and let their support inspire you. Your books are your friends—they’ll guide you to your dreams. With hard work and faith, you can overcome anything.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
As Pir reflected on her journey, she extended her warmest gratitude to those who stood by her side. From her lecturers and classmates to her family, she acknowledged the pivotal role they played in her success. And thanked her parents, especially her father, for believing in her for their unwavering support.
“Primarily, I attribute the majority of my achievements to my mother, whose steadfast prayers have been a constant source of strength. The very reason I stand before you on this stage to-day is due to her unwavering support. Without her prayers, I would not be the person I am today. She selflessly sacrificed her time, often staying awake through the night to accom-pany me during my studies, as I feared studying alone. Her boundless love and unwaver-ing support have been my greatest pillars, and I owe all my success to her.” she expressed.
She cited that everyone must remember that prayers have the power to work wonders. She firmly believes in the strength of prayer, and she is a living testament to its profound impact. She specifically, mentioned a mother’s prayers can never be overlooked; they are always heard and the love and devotion a mother put into her prayers are unmatched, and they serve as an unwavering source of guidance and protection. Pir expressed she will be forever grateful for the blessings she’s received, all of which are a result of the countless prayers of her moth-er that her faith and devotion have shaped her path, and she carries that with her everyday. Pir Sabnam’s story is not just about academic success but about resilience, grat-itude, and a vision to make a difference. She is not just a student but a bea-con of hope and excellence and an inspiration for everyone around her.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
