I’m thrilled to share some wonderful news from my creative and academic journey:
I have been awarded a R30,000 bursary from the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) as part of their 2025–2027 Postgraduate Scholarship Programme.
This funding will support my studies for the Master’s in Creative Writing at Nelson Mandela University (NMU)—a programme that aligns deeply with my passion for storytelling, research, and contributing to South Africa’s creative economy.
About the SACO Postgraduate Scholarship
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) has opened applications for its 2025–2027 Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, designed to support aspiring scholars in South Africa’s cultural and creative sectors.
The programme offers financial assistance of up to R40,000 for postgraduate students whose work intersects with the creative, cultural, heritage, or sports sectors. While not a full scholarship, this funding helps ease the financial pressure on students dedicated to expanding knowledge and innovation within South Africa’s cultural economy.
Investing in a Knowledge-Based Cultural Economy
Through this scholarship programme, SACO continues its mission to build a robust, knowledge-driven creative sector. By investing in postgraduate students, SACO supports both individual growth and the advancement of the broader cultural and creative industries.
Students passionate about culture, storytelling, and research are strongly encouraged to apply and play a role in strengthening South Africa’s dynamic creative landscape.
My Motivation & Vision
As part of my application, I submitted the following motivational letter:
Motivational Letter
To: The South African Cultural Observatory
Date: 8 July 2025
Dear Committee,
I am writing to request funding support to pursue my Master’s in Creative Writing at Nelson Mandela University.
In 2024, I completed my Honours degree in Motion Picture Medium, focusing on scriptwriting. I graduated with distinction, was placed on the Dean’s List, and my concept exploring deafness was selected for production as our final short film. Building on this, I was awarded an NFVF grant this year to produce ThisAbility, my first professional short film highlighting Deaf experiences in South Africa.
Last year, I established my own film company, Sacambaya Films, under which ThisAbility will be developed and produced. My creative work and research focus on advancing disability inclusion in storytelling by bringing authentic, nuanced narratives to South African audiences.
The Master’s in Creative Writing at NMU offers an ideal environment to deepen my craft, refine my voice, and build a sustainable creative practice grounded in research and impact. It will equip me to contribute meaningfully to audience development, narrative innovation, and the growth of the South African creative economy—areas I am passionate about shaping.
For more information on my work, please visit www.vickifourie.com.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Vicki Fourie
Receiving this bursary is an incredible encouragement and a meaningful step toward completing my Master’s degree. I am grateful to SACO for recognising the importance of stories that expand representation and enrich South Africa’s creative landscape.