Acknowledging that all growth of a person happens outside of our comfort zone is vital, said Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s), Louise Howell , graduated with her Degree of Bachelor of Technology in Public Relations Management.

Hailing from Port Elizabeth originally, she moved to Durban in 2002 to pursue her studies. The 37-year-old received the Dean’s Merit award for academic excellence during the Faculty of Management Sciences session on 13 September 2017 at 1pm.

“The course was tough, especially as I had to do it part-time whilst working full-time. I really wanted to do my personal best, but I did not imagine that I would achieve this award, so this has come as a very pleasant but good surprise,” said Howell.

Having great care from home and being a good communicator also enabled Howell to achieve this success.
“I had a very good support system, both at home and at work, whilst I was studying. I also made good friends at the course itself and we supported each other through it. It really did require complete commitment and I kept focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel and that is what allowed me to graduate successfully,” he said.

Howell urged women to work hard and smart in order to succeed in life and said risks need to be taken in life. “It is when we are uncomfortable, when there is a bit of nervous energy and adrenaline running through our veins that we find that next gear is to push ourselves up to another level and break stereotypes. If we don’t believe in our own talents and abilities, why should we expect anyone else to believe in them? I wholeheartedly believe that to be truly successful we must be able to affirm for ourselves that I am good enough to achieve,” said Howell proudly.

Pictured: An elated Louise Howell, at her graduation ceremony.

Mbuso Kunene