Chasing Dreams: The Inspirational Journey of Fulufhelani ‘Fulu’ Mashapha”

Story by: Lindiwe Secha 

INTRODUCTION

Embark on an inspiring journey with 26-year-old Fulufhelani “Fulu” Mashapha, a shining example of resilience and success in finance and personal growth. Fulu is an actuarial specialist, a YouTuber, and the author of the insightful book “Mind Your Cents.” Her story shows how she overcame challenges and chased her dreams. In our Vaccie Victories section on Vaccie Xperience, we celebrate people like Fulu who faced obstacles but never gave up. Fulu’s story is all about never giving up and always believing in yourself. From growing up in rural Limpopo to becoming an expert in her field, Fulu’s journey is a guide for anyone dreaming big.

Through her experiences, Fulu shares valuable advice for students. Whether you’re in high school or university, Fulu’s story can inspire you. Join us as we explore Fulu’s journey, learn from her successes, and discover how to chase your dreams.

I talked to Fulu on a Saturday, March 16, 2024. Even after a busy day getting ready for a friend’s wedding, she kindly shared her story with me. It was amazing to hear her insights and learn from her experiences. When I inquired about her week, referencing an article I came across earlier in the week on Briefly News titled “Meet Fulufhelani Mashapha, the Finance Guru Helping SA Budget on a R10K Salary,” after her budgeting videos garnered a lot of views on her TikTok as well as Instagram, she agreed that she had a good week, with the highlight being her mom’s birthday celebration.

BACKGROUND AND UPBRINGING

Fulu was born and raised in rural Limpopo, in a village nestled in a mountain valley. I jokingly remarked to her about her affinity for mountains, considering she pursued her higher education at the University of Cape Town, situated at the base of Table Mountain’s Devil’s Peak. She playfully agreed, quipping that these mountains must be conquered. Continuing with her upbringing story, she fondly described her village upbringing as fostering a strong sense of community. She emphasized that it was a close-knit community where her family extended beyond her immediate relatives; she regarded her neighbors as her aunties and uncles. Living among extended family members, she often spent time with them, blurring the lines between relatives and neighbors. Fulu exemplifies the adage “it takes a village to raise a child.” Discussing her family values, Fulu emphasized the importance of education. She explained that her aunts and uncles, who were educated themselves, served as exemplary role models. They instilled in her the belief that one degree is not sufficient, which fueled her motivation to pursue further studies.

EARLY EDUCATION

In terms of her educational journey, Fulu recounts being an exemplary student, never having experienced failure in tests, subjects, or grades, including classwork and homework. She excelled in her matriculation, achieving the remarkable position of 1st in Limpopo and 1st among Quintile 2 schools in the country for the matric class of 2015. For context, South African public schools are categorized into five groups, with Quintile 1 schools being the most economically disadvantaged and Quintile 5 schools being the least. This classification determines the government funding allocated to each school, with Quintile 1 schools receiving the highest per-learner allocation and Quintile 5 schools receiving the lowest. Despite the limited resources available, Fulu maximized them to achieve outstanding results. She obtained seven distinctions, including 100% in four subjects: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Geography, and Life Orientation.

Excitedly, she recalled her moment in the spotlight, appearing on television and sharing the stage with dignitaries like Angie Motshekga, the Minister of Basic Education in South Africa. This occurred during the live broadcast of the matric results, where the nation’s top achievers are recognized. In 2016, Fulu was among those honored for their hard work, a moment she now sees as the culmination of her dedication and effort. Reflecting on the beginning of her matric year, she remembered her former natural sciences teacher asking about her goals. Fulu expressed her ambition to be the best in the province and the country, inspired by a schoolmate from two years prior who achieved the same feat. Her teacher emphasized that achieving 100% was the only way to secure that goal. Thus, Fulu made it her mission to attain perfection, symbolized by her determination to put her name on the map. While driven to surpass her rival, Hama, from another high school in her village, a significant motivating factor for Fulu was ensuring her parents wouldn’t have to pay her university fees. True to her determination, she confirms that her education, from the first year to graduation, was fully covered by a bursary, relieving her family of any financial burden.

TERTIARY EDUCATION

Fulu had her sights set on the University of Cape Town and had already chosen Actuarial Science as her desired degree, despite her initial aspiration to become a pilot. Her father, playfully challenging her, suggested a degree that would truly test her abilities, remarking that being a pilot was akin to being a glorified taxi driver. When asked how she discovered Actuarial Science, Fulu recalled her grade 9 Maths teacher recommending it to her due to her proficiency in mathematics. In her pursuit of more information about Actuarial Science before university, Fulu credits her sister, who was already in university at the time, for connecting her with friends studying Actuarial Science. They reassured her that her strength in mathematics would serve her well but cautioned that graduating from university did not automatically qualify her as an Actuary; she would still need to pass board exams. However, Fulu noted a significant gap between what she was told about Actuarial Science and the reality of the profession, particularly regarding its connection to insurance, which wasn’t emphasized in her earlier discussions.

Initially drawn to Actuarial Science by the prospect of working with mathematics daily and earning a good salary, Fulu confessed that she only truly grasped the nature of the profession in her final year of university. Despite reaching out to Google and receiving standard definitions, she found a lack of detailed insight into the field. During high school, she knew only one person studying to be an actuary, limiting her exposure to the profession. Her alternative options included chemical engineering, which she now realizes wouldn’t have suited her due to her sensitivity to smells, and statistics and mathematics, which she considered pursuing in academia. Fulu envisions returning to academia in the future, sharing her corporate experiences with students. Her journey echoes the mission of the Vaccie Ventures section on the vacciexperience (vx) website, aiming to provide learners and students with comprehensive career information to make informed decisions. Fulu emphasizes that Actuarial Science encompasses diverse roles, highlighting that two actuaries could be engaged in entirely different tasks.

In terms of her academic journey, Fulu emphasizes that high school was a breeze for her—she described it as simply “cruising.” However, it was in university where she faced her first taste of failure. Aware that university would present new challenges, especially since she hadn’t studied Accounting and Economics in high school but would now be required to tackle them in university courses, Fulu prepared diligently as she always had. Each December, she spent time preparing for the following year by requesting notes from upcoming teachers to review the material in advance. By the time her peers were introduced to new content, it was already familiar to her, thanks to her proactive approach. Her mother’s assistance in obtaining Mindset study materials in Grade 11 proved invaluable in preparing for matric. Additionally, Fulu’s financial prudence, opting to save her pocket money instead of spending it frivolously, allowed her to acquire more resources, contributing to her academic success. This strategy served her well throughout her schooling career, allowing her to maintain her “cruising” status.

However, when applying the same strategy to prepare for university, Fulu faced unexpected challenges. Using high school study materials for Accounting and Economics proved insufficient, prompting her to realize the importance of seeking university-specific resources. Anticipating potential difficulties, she reached out for help when needed, crediting friends like Noxolo for aiding her in Accounting and Wade for assisting with Advanced Mathematics, a subject she hadn’t encountered in high school. Despite initial struggles, she managed to excel in these courses, even earning distinctions. Surprisingly, Economics came naturally to her, earning her an award for academic achievement in her first year. Fulu’s aptitude in statistics also played a role, driven by her desire to assist her friends in return for their help in other subjects. However, Computer Science posed a significant challenge, marked by her first-ever failure. Yet, with determination and hard work, she managed to turn it around and achieve success.

In her final year, Financial Economics presented a formidable obstacle, but Fulu persevered, narrowly missing a distinction by just 2%. Reflecting on her university experience, she acknowledges the support of her university community and the importance of reaching out for help when needed. She emphasizes the significance of coping mechanisms, noting that while crying served as an outlet during tough times, she now finds solace in journaling to navigate her emotions. Fulu’s journey underscores the resilience and adaptability required to overcome academic challenges and succeed.

LESSONS LEARNED

The loss of her friend in 2020 remains a poignant moment for Fulu, serving as a wake-up call to the fleeting nature of life. During her first year, after the first semester, Fulu returned home with her friend to attend a youth conference. Tragically, her friend collapsed beside her during the conference, prompting an urgent call for medical assistance. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, her friend was pronounced dead. Fulu fondly remembers her late friend as someone with whom she shared dreams and aspirations, particularly their ambitions for the future. Her friend had a passion for food and aspired to excel in the food industry, making it her specialty. As someone who typically experiences delayed reactions, Fulu admits that the full impact of her friend’s death didn’t hit her until two months later when she sought therapy to address the trauma. Confronting this loss, she realized the uncertainty of life and the importance of seizing opportunities, even in the absence of complete readiness. She recognized the futility of waiting for perfection and decided to grant herself permission to pursue her desires wholeheartedly. Fulu resolved to explore various avenues and pursue her aspirations without hesitation, determined to “shoot all her shots.” She concluded that if she could accomplish more than 50% of her goals, she could find peace in knowing that she had given herself the opportunity to pursue them fully.

Fulufhelani’s achievements in matric, her nearing completion of her actuarial science degree, her thriving YouTube channel with over 3k subscribers, and her book “Mind Your Cents” on personal finance might prompt some to label her as successful. However, Fulu holds a different perspective on success. For her, true success means not simply working to pay bills but pursuing work born out of passion. It involves freedom from contracts dictating when to clock in and out, and instead, engaging in what she genuinely loves without being solely motivated by financial gain, all while living comfortably—not merely surviving or barely getting by. She describes her current stage in life as a period of building—figuring things out as she goes along, akin to constructing a building where mistakes are made, lessons are learned, and adjustments are continually being made. Fulu criticizes the contemporary culture of rushing success, advocating for embracing the process of growth and learning.

Drawing from a Stanford University podcast on living an asymmetric life, Fulu highlights the importance of doing hard things and pursuing one’s passions. Investing time and effort into one’s passions early on leads to significant growth and expertise over time. She encourages individuals to write their own stories without limitations, emphasizing that people’s opinions are inconsequential in the grand scheme of personal fulfillment. Fulu urges alignment between one’s actions and their narrative, stressing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on problem-solving and societal contribution. She advises against being burdened by thoughts of others’ perceptions and stresses the need to cultivate a mindset aligned with personal goals and aspirations.

CAREER

When Fulufhelani transitioned into the workforce, she initially worked for her bursar, who operated in the insurance industry. However, at a certain point, she made the bold decision to resign and join a new employer—a bank. This transition wasn’t easy, as she had to confront the uncertainty of the move and consider the possibility of trading one challenge for another. Nevertheless, she’s grateful for taking the leap of faith because her new employer introduced her to the One Young World community, where she now serves as an Ambassador. This role enables her to engage in stimulating discussions with brilliant minds from around the globe. During her studies, Fulufhelani had the opportunity to undertake vacation work with her bursar during her second and third years, as well as with ASABA in her third year. It was during one of these vacation work experiences, specifically when she was tasked with a risk and risk management project, that her interest in risk was ignited. This experience resonated with her so deeply that she chose Enterprise Risk Management as a fellowship principle for her board exams.

Fulu’s journey has been enriched by the guidance of mentors at every stage of her life—during high school, university, and now in her professional career. In high school, she took the initiative to seek mentorship from a former student who had excelled in his matriculation two years prior, as mentioned earlier. Their regular check-ins and encouragement became a cornerstone of her support system. This mentorship experience underscores one of the core pillars of VX: providing high school learners with access to mentorship to help them stay focused on their goals.

REFLECTION

Reflecting on her journey, I asked Fulu what advice she would give to her younger self in high school. She would reassure her younger self that she’s on the right path and to hold steadfast to her dreams. Fulu would encourage her younger self to be bold, unconventional, and to never settle for mediocrity. Embracing her uniqueness and staying true to herself would be key. To her university self, Fulu would advise spending more time stepping out of her comfort zone and exploring opportunities beyond academia. She would encourage her to network, learn about corporate life, and delve into her entrepreneurial aspirations, including her desire to launch her YouTube channel. Fulu regrets not fully embracing these opportunities during her university years due to fear, but she wishes she had taken the plunge.

To conclude, with the release of matric results and the various paths students may find themselves on, Fulu offers valuable advice for both university students and those who didn’t achieve their desired results.

For university students facing challenges, Fulu emphasizes the importance of adaptability. She encourages seeking help when stuck, highlighting that a university degree is a collective effort. Building a supportive community of committed individuals who motivate each other to attend classes and tutorials, even on challenging days, can make a significant difference. Fulu reassures that thriving is achievable with dedication and hard work.

ADVICE TO LEARNERS AND STUDENTS

For those who didn’t achieve success in matric, Fulu stresses that setbacks do not define one’s future. She advises against settling for less and reminds individuals that life is not a sprint but a marathon. There’s no need to rush or compare oneself to others. Instead, consider alternative paths such as returning to school and approaching education differently armed with newfound knowledge. Exploring options like bridging courses can also pave the way towards achieving goals. Most importantly, Fulu emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support along the way. Asking for assistance can provide valuable guidance and resources to navigate challenges and pursue aspirations effectively.

In conclusion, Fulufhelani “Fulu” Mashapha’s remarkable journey from rural Limpopo to becoming a beacon of success in finance and personal growth is nothing short of inspiring. Through her story, she embodies resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief in oneself. Fulu’s experiences serve as a guiding light for high school learners and students, showing them that no dream is too big to chase.

MIND YOUR CENTS

Moreover, Fulu’s book, “Mind Your Cents,” offers invaluable insights into personal finance in a language that is accessible and easy to understand. Her personalized notes at on the first page of the book add a special touch, making the book not just a guide but a companion in the reader’s financial journey. The chapters cover essential topics like budgeting, interest rates, wealth-building, and real estate investments among a total of 13 chapters, providing practical advice backed by Fulu’s own experiences. Additionally, the inclusion of homework at the end of each chapter encourages active engagement and application of the concepts learned.

CONCLUSION

As we bid farewell, let Fulu’s story and her book serve as constant reminders that success is attainable with perseverance, knowledge, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams relentlessly. So, dear reader, embrace the lessons learned from Fulu’s journey, apply the wisdom gained from “Mind Your Cents,” and embark on your own path to success with confidence and determination. The sky is the limit, and with the right mindset and guidance, you too can achieve greatness.

Remember, success is not just about reaching the destination but embracing the journey and the growth it brings along the way. So, as you embark on your own path, dare to dream, persevere in the face of challenges, and never underestimate the power of believing in yourself. The world is full of possibilities, and with determination and resilience, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Here’s to embracing the journey, seizing opportunities, and writing our own stories of success. As Fulu would say, let’s mind our cents and make every moment count.