BGR Student Outreaches 2024: Inspiring the Future of Accounting

BGR Student Outreaches 2024: Inspiring the Future of Accounting

Throughout 2024, BGR Association proudly connected with aspiring chartered accountants and professional accountants across various educational levels. These outreaches aimed to educate, inspire, and guide students in making informed career decisions in the dynamic world of accounting.

As an audit firm in the Western Cape, our central location allowed us to engage closely with Stellenbosch University students and beyond. Whether you’re considering a SAICA training contract or a SAIPA training contract, our outreach programs aim to show you what to expect as a trainee accountant while offering practical advice for your journey.

Stellenbosch University Outreaches

If you’ve walked past the Van Der Sterr Building this year, you might have spotted us—tote bags and popcorn in hand—ready to chat with students about their future career plans. Whether it was discussing the path to becoming a Chartered Accountant or the benefits of a SAIPA training contract, we had meaningful conversations with many of you.

We’ll be back next year at the same spot, so keep an eye out for us! It’s a perfect opportunity to ask your burning questions or simply grab some popcorn while exploring your career options.

School Outreaches: Planting Seeds for the Future

At BGR, we believe in shaping the accountants of tomorrow, starting as early as high school. Our school outreach programs reached students from Grade 9 through matric, helping them make informed choices about their subject selection and academic goals.

We emphasized the importance of choosing the right subjects in Grade 9 and maintaining strong academic performance in Grades 11 and 12 to secure university entrance. To make exam prep a bit easier, each student received a pencil bag filled with stationery approved for matric exams—a small gesture to support their big dreams.

Beyond the classroom, our Stellenbosch office, BGR Alluvium, proudly supported the Justin-Harding Interschool Golf Challenge. This event provided young golfers with the opportunity to showcase their talent and compete at a national level, reflecting our commitment to nurturing excellence in all forms.

Career Talks with Nationwide Impact

This year, we were honored to participate in career talks at UNISA, engaging with students nationwide. We broke down the steps to becoming a Chartered Accountant and shared insights on what to expect as a SAICA trainee accountant.

These sessions offered practical guidance and were a platform for students to connect with us on a deeper level. The questions and enthusiasm we received truly reflected the drive of future accountants across South Africa.

Accounting Meets Fun

Who says accountants can’t have fun? At the StudentePlein outreach, we engaged Stellenbosch’s Afrikaans-speaking students through a friendly yet competitive game of Padel. These moments reminded us that connecting with students doesn’t always have to involve a lecture—it can be about shared laughter and teamwork.

We also partnered with the EMS Faculty to contribute to their annual EMS dance, giving accounting students a chance to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved break from their rigorous studies. These moments of celebration and connection remind us that while the path to becoming a Chartered or Professional Accountant is demanding, balance is key to success.

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we reflect on 2024, we’re excited about the year ahead. Whether you’re a high school student exploring the world of accounting or a university student considering a training contract, BGR Alluvium is here to guide and support you.

If you’re a Stellenbosch University student, make sure to visit us next year at the Van Der Sterr Building. For high school learners, keep an eye out for our school visits—we might be planting the seed for your future accounting career.

BGR is more than an audit firm. We’re partners in your journey to success.

Want to see our outreaches in action? Check out our Instagram reels here and catch a glimpse of the fun, inspiration, and connections we shared with students throughout the year!