The dedicated and hardworking Phiwokuhle Mazibuko, (24) from Ntshongweni, KwaZulu-Natal graduated Cum Laude for her Advanced Diploma in Taxation at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation held at Olive Convention Centre (OCC) on Thursday, 24 May 2023.
Not knowing her parents motivated her to do well in her studies. Mazibuko’s mother passed away when she was only two years old and she does not know her father. She believes that excelling in her school work will help grow her as an individual and reach her goals in no time.
Mazibuko believes that her journey at DUT was a rollercoaster. It began in 2018 when she enrolled for her Diploma in Taxation, Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) of which she also graduated Cum Laude. At the beginning of last year, 2022 she registered for her Advanced Diploma in Taxation, she had no funding and no other source of income. However, through her keen observation and entrepreneurial mindset she decided to come up with a plan to open an online clothing business called Classy Collection. This business ended up funding her studies, food, rent and travel allowance. In February last year God also came through for her as she managed to find a job
Even though she was happy that she found a job, this came as a challenge to her as she had to skip her classes in order to be at work as she was a full-time employee. As a wise individual she had to come up with a plan to balance her studies, her business, and her duties at work.
Mazibuko is grateful that she obtained Cum Laude for the second time and hopes that her hard work will open closed doors for her. She mentioned that her family members did not believe her when she told them that she is graduating Cum Laude as they knew that she was doing lots of things last year.
When asked why she chose Taxation as her course of study, Mazibuko said: “In high school, I realised that finance is on a day-to-day basis, and I saw the opportunity and demand of this industry, that is why I chose Taxation. I believe that these accomplishments have left many in awe and motivated many who wish to excel in their studies. This feels like a step in the right direction for all my dreams and aspirations and I am relieved that I was able to obtain good grades,” said Mazibuko.
The top academic achiever shared her dreams for the future. She wants to become a Taxation Practitioner in one of the successful companies so that she can be able to give her family a better lifestyle. Working as an Accounts Administrator at a Logistics company opened her eyes to venture into Shipping and Logistics as she believes there are lots of job opportunities.
Mazibuko made sure that she thanked her family, Isibonelo Academy, Sdyney Shibambo, Thabiso Mbuthuma and her Taxation family who helped her achieve this great milestone.
Mazibuko advised university students to always challenging themselves but don’t be too hard on themselves, be open enough to let in others help them and also return a favour.
Pictured: Phiwokuhle Mazibuko
Nomvelo Zulu
