How a Higher Certificate in Banking Sparked Leonard’s Success

A Fresh Start with Milpark

That changed when he studied with Milpark many years later. Leonard completed two professional qualifications - the Higher Certificate in Banking and the Advanced Certificate in Banking – proving that he could still succeed, and do so with distinction.

We spoke with Leonard to understand what it was like to study again after a long break, and how Milpark helped him rebuild his self-confidence and strengthen his career prospects in the banking industry.

A Start in Banking

After leaving university, Leonard took an entry-level administrative job before moving into banking – first with Capitec and later with ABSA. He performed well but soon realised that further studies were needed to progress further. “Most banks want NQF 5 as a minimum. I needed formal qualifications to advance.”

When ABSA suggested a learnership through Milpark Education, it was the push Leonard needed. “It was a requirement, but I wanted it. I’d hoped to study again.”

Read: From Petrol Pumps to Financial Planner: Billy Kaula’s Milpark Journey

Learning and Building Confidence

Leonard enrolled in Milpark’s School of Financial Services, and although returning to study felt daunting at first, he soon found his footing on the Higher Certificate in Banking (NQF 5).

“My self-confidence had taken a big knock when I dropped out of university. Milpark showed me that I can still make it. I started getting distinctions and realised I could do this. I was back to normal.”

Online Learning for Real Life

Having completed the first Milpark course in person, Leonard expected to struggle with the fully online Advanced Certificate in Banking. Instead, he found it empowering. “Studying online is easier than attending class. You don’t have to travel, and you can go back to the material when you need to.”

Milpark’s structure and support made it work smoothly. “Everything was well ordered – the course, the materials, even the exams. The lecturers knew their stuff. Banking Law was difficult, with Latin terms, but the way they simplified it made sense. ”Milpark’s banking pathway was just as clear, guiding Leonard from NQF 5 to NQF 6, toward the degree-level BCom in Banking (NQF 7) and beyond.

Interested in how the banking industry is evolving? Read this article by lecturer Hugo Lambrechts:Reimagining Trust in the Banking Industry in South Africa

Skills That Strengthen Careers

One of the greatest benefits was how quickly Leonard could apply what he was learning. “The Bank Management module was an eye-opener. It helped me understand at a deeper level how to advise people on managing their money well.”

Sales Management was equally valuable. “I learned how to handle objections and difficult customers; skills I use every time I face a challenging situation.”

“The course material is relevant and aligned with the needs of the banking industry, relating to what we do daily. ”The qualifications have also opened new doors. “There are roles I can apply for now that were closed to me before."

Read how Milpark graduate Phiwokuhle ‘Happy’ Xulu advanced her career:Happy’s Rise in Investment Management with Milpark.

It’s Never Too Late

The biggest shift was personal: “To be honest, I thought I had failed in life. That I would never have qualifications. Studying with Milpark gave me my confidence back.” Leonard believes it’s never too late to start again. “Don’t say you’re too old. If you want to do something, focus and go for it.”

Through Milpark’s structured yet flexible online learning, he gained practical banking skills, renewed his confidence, and earned the qualifications he needed to grow in his career. Most importantly, he discovered that progress is always possible, with the right support and mindset.

Ready to invest in your finance career? Explore Milpark’s School of Financial Services to find the programme that will take you where you want to go.

You’ve got this. We’ve got you.