Siyanda Mkhize’s graduation ceremony was dedicated to his beloved 83-year-old grandmother who has been amongst the inspirational persons in his academic success. Mkhize took to the stage at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2024 Autumn Graduation Ceremony at the Olive Convention Centre on Wednesday, 22 May 2024, obtaining a Diploma in Business and Information Management, under the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.
Expressing his undying love for gogo Rose Buthelezi and why he dedicates his graduation to her, Mkhize said she has been an instrumental force in his life.
“I love her, she had played a very influential role in my life. She was one of the reasons I am where I am today. She taught me patience and she was the reason I keep studying. Hence why I wanted to appreciate her,’’ he said.
He also extended gratitude to his whole family for their unwavering support and DUT as he felt it exposed him to various great opportunities which led to where he is today.
Mkhize from Empangeni, is the first member to obtain a qualification in his family. He shared his excitement of Gogo Rose Buthelezi wearing his graduation gown at the ceremony.
“I looked forward to her coming to the ceremony. I am also glad that she was able to witness me graduate as she had been telling me that she would not go anywhere until she wore my graduation gown,’’ he said.
Graduation news for Mkhize brought emotions and excitement to the family, especially his parents.
“It was very emotional, especially for my mother, who had been my rock throughout this whole journey. I made a promise to her that I would make her proud and I had achieved my first step. My father as well had been supportive even with my decision to continue studying he was more than happy and urged me to chase my dreams,’’ he said.
The Empangeni-born student entrepreneur who is under the innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation said what inspired him to choose his course was his Ekasitech business. It deals with running an internet Café, a gaming zone, computers and cell phone repairs.
“I applied because I had already started a business with my family, so I needed to know how to run the business properly, so it becomes a success in the future,’’ he said.
He also applauded innobiz DUT for enhancing his business knowledge as a student entrepreneur.
This is just the beginning of Mkhize’s academic journey as he is currently enrolled for his Advanced Diploma in Business and Information Management. And one day his wish is to be referred to as Dr Mkhize.
He then shared inspiring advice to anyone who wants to be successful to not listen to the naysayers. “Do not listen to the negative things people say, just be yourself and make sure you study hard,” advised Mkhize
Pictured: Siyanda Mkhize
Vukani Langa
