SU psychology student crowdfunds to pay her fees

FOURTH year psychology student Shayen Gomis says the kindness of strangers will now help her look after others in need, as her tuition has been taken care of.

From Rondeberg, a small town on the West Coast, Gomis’s determination will not only help her complete her BA in Humanities (Psychology) but also allow her to graduate from Stellenbosch University later this year.

Her journey hasn’t been smooth sailing, as a lack of funds placed her hopes and dreams in jeopardy. As a result, Gomis created a profile on Feenix, the online student crowfunding platform where students can fund-raise for their outstanding university fees.

Her tuition money has since been awarded by Feenix and the V&A Waterfront.

“My passion is to listen to and work with people, providing them with strategies and tools to improve their lives. I love empowering people through knowledge and helping them grow and evolve. Hence my choice of a degree in psychology.

“Joining the crowdfunding platform was a motivating experience because I could see all these incredible students as determined to succeed as I was. I was also inspired to see that so many have had success with fund-faising and completed their studies.

“Moreover, the Feenix team assisted me efficiently throughout the process. Whenever I had any questions about the completion of my profile, they responded promptly and very professionally,” Gomis said.

Feenix student engagement manager Cara-Jean Petersen said the platform allows students to connect with potential donors.

V&A Waterfront spokesperson Donald Kau said certain criteria has to be met. “It gives us great joy to partner with Feenix on this exciting programme and we wish Shayen all of the best in her career,” he said.