They say it takes a village to raise a child but it takes a company with vision, commitment and true belief in a young person to turn their career dreams into reality.
As a beneficiary of Klipheuwel Wind Farm’s community bursary programme 19-year-old Dawn Abrahams of Genadendal is turning her life-long ambition of becoming a doctor into reality.
The alumna of LR Schmidt Primary School in Genadendal and Overberg High in Caledon was awarded the bursary in 2025 and is currently studying medicine at Stellenbosch University. She is now almost halfway through her second year.
Abrahams is among five beneficiaries of this bursary to have pursued medical studies, among others that have pursued disciplines such as dentistry and radiography.
“I initially wanted to become a police officer, but assisting my dad Donald, who was an active first aider in the Genadendal community, during medical emergencies sparked my interest in medicine. This interest became even stronger when I was about nine years old, after witnessing a local police officer with a severe head injury who, at the time, was unable to receive immediate medical attention.”
Medical field in the blood
Being raised in a close-knit family committed to serving others clearly cemented Abrahams’ calling to pursue a medical career. In addition to her father’s involvement in community first aid her brother also works in the medical field and her mother cares for the elderly.
Abrahams has set her heart on becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon but she remains open to exploring different specialist fields. Once qualified she hopes to return to her community to make a meaningful impact, using her specialist surgical skills. “I definitely see my future as a doctor here in South Africa, and I would love to work in the Overberg region and give back to the communities there.
“The bursary has meant a great deal to me and my family. It has enabled us all to see that the dream I’ve had since primary school is truly possible and achievable.”
Asked by Hermanus Times how she had heard of the bursary programme, Abrahams said: “A primary-school teacher’s son was also funded and he also studied medicine. Another teacher encouraged me to apply for the bursary and so I did.”
Despite an incredibly busy schedule she told the newspaper she also makes time for dancing, drawing, hiking and running, which she started a few months ago. “It not only keeps me fit, but I need to be strong for the patients as well.
“People must look for opportunities. There are a lot of opportunities out there. Many young people are so discouraged, but each of us has something within us and if we strive and set our hearts on becoming something bigger, it is definitely possible.”
Bursary’s comprehensive cover
“To support a young person that shows such passion and commitment to helping others and her community is very encouraging for us,” said Sinovuyo Choco, Economic Development Specialist at Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
“We can’t wait to see what Dawn achieves in the future and look forward to following her journey as she works towards becoming a doctor.”
Since its inception in 2016, this bursary programme, which covers tuition, accommodation, travel and study materials, has supported students from Genadendal, Caledon, Grabouw, Bot River and Hermanus, investing not only in education, but in the future of these communities.
