21 June 2024
Written by Milpark Communications
Pursuit of Knowledge: A Journey of Discovery Saajida Dinath, Senior Lecturer of School of Commerce, who had always worked in the banking and financial sector, never imagined that sometimes the most beautiful paths in life are the unexpected detours. Now extremely grateful, Saajida says that this detour led her all the way to Milpark Education.
I grew up in Laudium, located in the southwest of central Pretoria, and I pretty much lived there all my life. I moved to Cape Town for a few years, but I felt a stronger pull to Johannesburg, so I live there now. I am the second eldest of 6 children.
Some of my siblings are based in Pretoria, Cape Town, and Joburg, so I feel like I have a bit of a home everywhere.
I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications at the University of South Africa (UNISA), majoring in Industrial Psychology. I had initially planned to pursue a career in industrial psychology, but life took me in a different direction. However, I still have every intention of completing my MBA in the future. The pressure is on, but I am determined to earn that MBA someday!
It's challenging and it's exciting. No two days are the same. The pressure can seem overwhelming at times, especially during exam time, but every single day we manage to sail through with the resilience that we’re blessed with.
I strongly believe that we’ve got a good team who is extremely supportive. When I was offered this role, I didn’t even question it – I simply said yes because I always joke and say I am sandwiched with support.
It involves adaptability and, of course, the impact that you have on the students’ lives. I’m a people person, and that’s genuinely one of the most rewarding elements of my role here.
I have worked in the banking and financial services sector for 29 years, holding various roles across different business units. In the latter years, I was mostly in managerial and leadership positions, focusing on operations. While still working in the financial sector in 2017, I began contracting for Milpark as a marker. Then in 2021, I was given the opportunity to join the team as a lecturer in the School of Commerce. Three years later, here I am.
Undoubtedly, the elements of quality and equality are crucial. As we operate in an online space where there is minimal room for error, it is essential to treat everyone with the same level of respect and provide teaching of the highest quality.
The first place that immediately comes to mind is the Maldives! I was fortunate enough to spend some vacation time in the Maldives in 2022. It's stunning - I'd even say it's breathtaking! I can argue, but it will always be the Maldives.
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My belief is that we should respect each other for who we are. We shouldn't try to force others to be like us because as humans, we often think, "I'm right, so you must be like me," but that's not how it works. If we don't take the time to understand people - their beliefs, behavior, and
reactions - then we won't achieve what we need to. I believe this might be why the world is the way it is, and I would like to change that.
Your attitude determines your altitude is a well-known saying, and I firmly believe in its truth. When it comes to your studies, it's important to do them for yourself rather than solely for the purpose of getting a promotion or a salary increase. While it may be tough at the beginning, staying consistent and persistent with your studies is crucial. If we encounter setbacks, we should pick ourselves up, dust off, and keep moving forward. Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself.
To be kind and authentic. I am committed to being genuine. One of my previous managers used to say, "You can't keep a good man down", but I have since adapted it to "You can't keep a good wo/man down"! Saajida has undeniably found her true calling. We at Milpark are thrilled that she has chosen to impart her knowledge and wealth of experience to our esteemed students. Thank you for your outstanding work, and we look forward to many more years of success and prosperity.
At Milpark, education transcends traditional boundaries, fostering a culture of continuous learning and critical thinking. Saajidah's story is not just about academic achievements; it is a testament to the transformative power of education in shaping a brighter future. Explore how Milpark Education has equipped her with the tools to thrive in an increasingly complex world and pursuit of knowledge.