Shanay Petersen, a self-described “small-town girl” from Ceres in the Western Cape, has capitalised on a Shoprite bursary to become a product developer at the retailer’s home office in Brackenfell.
She learnt about Shoprite’s bursary programme in her Grade 12 year at Charlie Hofmeyer High School and applied while studying cooking at the Institute of Culinary Arts (ICA) in Stellenbosch.
“I applied for a Shoprite bursary after one of my lecturers mentioned applications were open,” Petersen said.
“At that moment it felt like fate. I applied in June 2020 and was accepted to the bursary programme later that year.”
Applying for the bursary was a move that changed the course of her life, as she had needed financial assistance, and it later led to employment by Africa’s largest retailer as part of a work-back agreement.
“Besides the financial assistance, I knew getting the bursary would help me gain invaluable practical work experience that would accelerate my career growth,” added Petersen.
“I am currently working as a Product Developer with the best team in the Fresh Foods Department at Shoprite’s Home Office.”
She describes the role as fast-paced and ever-changing – the team she works in is responsible for handling everything from conceptualising ideas to launching final products.
“Product development is an exciting industry. I need to keep updated on new developments and food trends.”
Applications for the Shoprite Group’s all-inclusive bursary programme are now open for the 2023 academic year. The bursaries – which include tuition, on-campus accommodation and work-back agreements – offer high performing students an opportunity to further their studies and then go on to work for South Africa’s largest private employer.
Registered university students with a 65% aggregate or higher are encouraged to apply by visiting the Bursaries page on www.shopriteholdings.co.za before 31 August.
