Finalist: SAICA Trainee Trailblazer Awards 2025

Khutso Nkanyane is a first-year CA(SA) trainee whose leadership is rooted in advocacy, education, and community transformation. Her journey reflects a lifelong commitment to driving sustainable social change — from childhood activism to academic leadership and grassroots initiatives.

Khutso’s impact began early. From 2009 to 2015, she served on the ChildLine Junior Management Committee in Limpopo, ultimately becoming its chairperson. In this role, she championed the rights of children, raised awareness about abuse, and collaborated with churches to educate Sunday school learners on how to identify and report abuse. Her efforts contributed to increased reporting and a more informed youth population — giving voice to the voiceless and protecting vulnerable children.

In 2019, Khutso broke barriers by becoming the first female Chairperson of the School of Accountancy at the University of Limpopo. She served as a bridge between students and management, advocating for inclusive, transparent decision-making and equitable access to quality education. Her leadership aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), ensuring that the academic environment catered to disadvantaged students and promoted gender equity.

Khutso’s commitment to public safety is equally impactful. As an Ambassador for the Limpopo Department of Road and Transport and Community Safety, she has led outreach programmes and debate competitions in schools, educating youth on road safety and community protection. Through partnerships with ABSA, Toyota, Metropolitan, and Sanlam, the initiative has grown into a national movement — empowering young people to propose solutions for reducing road carnages and juvenile delinquency. Her work supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and reflects a collaborative approach to sustainable development.

Back in her hometown of Mankweng, Khutso launched an extra lessons initiative for learners with special needs, offering daily tutoring in Mathematics, English, and Sepedi. Operating from her mother’s garage, the programme provides personalised support to learners from Grade R to Grade 7, helping them overcome learning challenges and transition successfully to high school. This initiative reinforces her belief that every child is capable — they just need time, attention, and care. It also contributes meaningfully to SDG 4, promoting inclusive and equitable education.

Khutso’s leadership is defined by action, empathy, and impact. She has served as a SAICA Camp Leader, inspiring students to pursue the CA(SA) designation, and continues to advocate for inclusivity, safety, and empowerment in every space she enters.

Her story is one of purpose and perseverance — proving that even as a trainee, one can lead change, uplift communities, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Khutso Nkanyane exemplifies the spirit of the Social & Sustainability Impact Award, showing that education, advocacy, and compassion are powerful tools for transformation.