Country of Citizenship: Swaziland
UNC Attended: Red Cross Nordic United World College in Norway

Nomvula Kipsy Sekwentekile Ndwandwe '08 came to Skidmore from Swaziland after graduating from the Red Cross Nordic United World College in Norway.

At Skidmore, she majored in economics and minored in business and government.

Nomvula is currently an economist working for the Government of Swaziland’s Ministry of Economic Planning and Development in the Macroeconomic Analysis and Research Unit. She was recently awarded a Chevening Scholarship to pursue a master’s in international development at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies starting in September 2014.

Nomvula credits her Skidmore experience with giving her the skills and background to achieve these key objectives. "During my job search after graduation, the quality of education I received at Skidmore set me apart and enabled me to secure a stable job first with an American-based non-governmental organization, then with the government in Swaziland. Having been exposed to a liberal education, I am able to view and analyze policies about gender, environment, and cultural perspectives, which makes things more relevant to the communities receiving the service. Creative thought still matters!"

Being a Davis United World College Scholar has inspired Nomvula to stay true to the UWC values and principles at work and in her community. "I believe it has also pushed me to look for more opportunities to advance my studies. I offer my sincere thanks to Davis UWC for being a part of positive change in our global society!"