An anonymous donor has lifted a heavy burden from Mpho’s shoulders as she studies towards a medical degree that will help her serve her community back home.
Stellenbosch, South Africa (26 January 2026) – Stellenbosch University medical student Mpho Mashego comes from the rural village of Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga, where healthcare resources are limited. That inspired her to pursue medicine so that she can one day return home and serve the community that raised her.
“Every clinical experience, every long study night, and every moment of learning reminds me why I chose this path — because someone in a rural clinic will one day depend on my hands, my knowledge, and my compassion.” shares Mpho.
Before enrolling at Stellenbosch University, Mpho had built a career as a Medical Scientist at the National Health Laboratory Service in the Anatomical Pathology Division. She walked away from a secure job to return to full-time studies, and that came with uncertainty. She went for it, knowing that her end-goal was more important.
“Leaving that secure, stable career to return to full-time studies was one of the biggest and most courageous decisions I have ever made. But I chose purpose over comfort, and service over security — because I believe deeply in the difference I want to make in rural healthcare.”
Mpho is now a third-year MBChB student. She has worked so hard to get there. Unfortunately, the stress of student debt caught up with her. Due to financial constraints, Mpho faced outstanding fees from her previous academic year, and that threatened her ability to continue with her studies.
After coming so far, working so hard, and sacrificing so much, the thought of her dream being interrupted was deeply painful. Without other options, she created an online fundraising campaign to ask for help…
And it showed up in the most extraordinary way!
Just 11 days after the fundraiser went live, 101% of Mpho’s R93,100 goal was met. Little donations trickled through, but it was one incredible anonymous donor that changed everything. They contributed R90,000. Almost the entire amount needed to clear her outstanding university fees.
They didn’t leave a name. Only a message:
“I know you’re going to make an amazing doctor. I wish you every success in your future endeavours. May God bless you abundantly for all hard work and dedication. All the best.”
With all funds to cover her existing student debt raised, the pressure has lifted and Mpho’s dream of returning home as a qualified doctor is back on track. It means everything to her and for Bushbuckridge, it means hope is on its way.
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