Never Too Late for Kim: Milpark’s Top PGDA Student Tackles MBA

Kim enrolled to study geology straight out of school. But after switching to a BCom, something clicked: her dream of becoming a CA(SA) was born. She finished her degree, completed articles and got married. The future looked bright.

Then life happened. “I got divorced, threw myself into work, and developed health issues. There was a lot to deal with; I couldn’t cope. I de-registered from the CTA.”

Years passed. Burnout and self-doubt crept in. The demands of her job as a financial accountant made making time to study seem out of reach. And when she eventually decided to try again, her husband fell ill. Then COVID hit.

“After many setbacks, I gave up hope of completing my accounting studies, even though my employer had made it clear only CAs would be considered for certain roles. Not qualifying was holding back my career, despite my experience and how good I was at my job.”

Want to know more about Milpark’s flexible online pathways to becoming a CA(SA)? Explore Milpark's School of Professional Accounting (incorporating CA Connect).

Kim’s turning point came when she heard Milpark Education’s Gareth Olivier CA(SA) speaking about the power of second chances. “I had already turned 40 when I heard the interview. It introduced me to Milpark’s online accounting programmes, and it felt like I’d finally been given the tools to finish what I started.”

“Flexible, online learning was a perfect fit. Milpark’s motto – ‘It’s not failure, you just haven’t mastered it yet’ – changed everything. It reframed how I saw myself.”

At 44, Kim enrolled in Milpark’s Advanced Accounting Bridging Course, followed by the SAICA-accredited Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA/CTA). “I was there for a single reason – to qualify as a CA.”

Read how SAICA recognition has opened doors for Advanced Accounting students here.

Kim chose Milpark’s two-year, half-workload PGDA option for working professionals. “It was a game-changer. I wasn’t sprinting to the finish line. I wanted time to master the material properly.”

What stood out most was the support. “Every one of the accounting lecturers was outstanding. They were always available - even when I thought my questions were trivial.”

For Kim, it wasn’t just about passing, it was about feeling seen. “I’ve never felt that an institution cared about me as an individual before. Milpark’s teaching style reignited my passion for learning. I’ve gained the confidence I never had before.”

In 2023, Kim graduated as Milpark’s top PGDA student. “No one was more surprised than I was. It’s one of the greatest achievements of my life.”

The impact was immediate. “I was promoted straight away. It changed how others saw me. The skills were already there, but now I had the designation to back them up. It brought credibility, job security and greater earnings. It also gave me confidence.”

Learn More: SAICA-accredited flexible, online accounting courses.

Even though becoming a CA(SA) had been her lifelong goal, Kim’s journey didn’t stop there. “Now I want to be the best I can be – to push myself and see how much further and better I can become.”

The idea of pursuing an MBA came from a mindset shift. “Milpark instilled a deep love of lifelong learning. Through the PGDA, I overcame my belief that I was a failure. I realised I could achieve anything - if willing to do the work.”

Where the PGDA/CTA is technical, the MBA is expansive. “Accounting is technical. The beauty of the MBA is that it opens your eyes to so much more.”

Kim is inspired by the calibre and diversity of her MBA peers – accountants, academics, entrepreneurs, marketers and even engineers. “When you put insecurity aside, you realise how much you can grow. I’m learning from my fellow students all the time.”

Milpark’s first-ever in-person MBA induction helped solidify connections. “I didn’t know anyone, but that day gave me confidence. It showed this isn’t just an online course. It’s a very human MBA.”

The transformation continues. “The MBA is hard work, but I’m enjoying it. I’ve become more grounded and quietly confident, personally and professionally. It’s changed my life.”

Kim’s story proves that age doesn’t have to be a barrier – it can be a springboard. With maturity comes clarity, resilience and courage.

Milpark didn’t just help Kim earn her CA qualification. It is helping her become a more rounded leader. “Adopting a growth mindset is key. Cherish those who support you and ignore negativity. Just because something is hard doesn’t mean you are not capable.”

Her advice to others?

“Being a mature student is nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone’s journey is different, and no one has the right to judge you for pursuing education later in life. Don’t give up on your dreams. You will regret unfinished business later; it is never too late to start.”