Nathan Caleb Govender

As a member of the Crawford International North Coast Interact Club, I had the privilege of partaking in many initiatives to assist our local community in oThongathi. While I enjoyed each experience, the volunteer work we did at "Haven of Rest" had a profound impact on me. "Haven of Rest" is a community welfare centre which includes hospice care, a rehabilitation centre, an orphanage and a dialysis centre. The time I spent at the centre completely shifted my trajectory. Being able to assist, even in a small way, by aiding the vulnerable patients in taking their medication, assisting in their meal preparations and simply having a conversation to connect with them, made me realise that my true calling lay in healthcare. This experience shifted my perspective, proving that the art of healing is just as much about human connection as it is about science, and acted as a catalyst for my decision to pursue a career in the health sciences.

To gain insight into the corporate landscape and a potential career as a Chartered Accountant, I applied for the Deloitte Young Executive Programme (YEP). I was selected from a pool of Grade 11/12 learners and attended a 2-day program at Deloitte's Umhlanga office. Through the inspiring talks and workshops, I gained invaluable skills and knowledge in presentation, teamwork, networking and the importance of giving back to the community. These skills are foundations which I will continue to leverage across my career development.