The Mail and Guardian recently announced its annual 200 Young South Africans, an initiative that spotlights future leaders making a positive impact on society. Among those honoured for their accomplishments was Siphesihle Delani Hlophe, an aspiring academic from the Durban University of Technology (DUT). The Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans is a prestigious accolade that celebrates the achievements of young South Africans, aiming to inspire others to drive change and contribute to society.

The dynamic 32-year-old Hlophe is a Doctor of Nursing candidate in the Department of Nursing at DUT. Besides delving into this exciting medical field, Hlophe has obtained numerous academic accolades. He has obtained his undergraduate qualification, a Bachelor of Technology in Nursing Science from DUT, and has several other postgraduate qualifications that includes a Master of Nursing. He is a published researcher in both the South African and international journals accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), focusing on the impact of HIV/AIDS on the youth and developing guidelines for self-management. He is registered with the South African Nursing Council and the Saudi Commission for Health Specialities as a professional nurse and nurse educator. Hlophe has experience in both the public and private sector in nursing, and currently holds a position of nurse educator where his primary responsibility is educating the nurses.

Being named in the Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans was the ideal accomplishment for Hlophe. “It’s a remarkable accomplishment, and I am proud of myself. Being named in the Mail and Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans list is a significant achievement and a great honour. The list recognises young South Africans who are making a positive impact in various fields, including health and wellness, science, art, politics, and more. Being included in this list is a testament to my hard work, dedication, and potential to make a difference in society,” he shared.

Hlophe commented that this year the Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans received over 4000 nominations when they had first opened their nomination to the public to nominate those young South Africans making a meaningful contribution in their sector. Hlophe confessed that he was blessed enough that his wife thought he is deserving of this prestigious and nominated him. “At first I did not know, until she had to fill in a form and motivate, this is when she needed some of the information from me and I became aware. Out of the 4000 they shortened the list to 200 recipients,” he beamed.

Hlophe, explained that he is doing his final year of study at DUT. “My research at DUT focuses on curriculum transformation and Gender-Based Violence. My research entails advocating for a comprehensive inclusion of Gender-Based Violence in the nursing curriculum,” he recommended.

Hlophe relays that DUT has played an influential role helping him achieve his academic goals.

“DUT has helped me to achieve and towards achieving my academic goals in several ways by providing a supportive research environment. Receiving guidance from experienced academics who can offer valuable mentorship and feedback, such as Professor Vasanthrie Naidoo and Dr Nellie Naranjee. Also, great collaborations with peers, academics, and industry partners,” he conveyed.

Going forward, Hlophe indicated that his main goal is to complete his PhD at DUT, and fulfilling all requirements to be named and awarded NRF Y1 or Y2 rating. “The ultimate goal is to become the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC): Research and Innovation or Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC):  Teaching and Learning,” he professed.

Hlophe urges people to remember that one’s potential is limitless, and one’s impact can be profound. “Go out there and make your mark,” he said.

Pictured: Siphesihle Delani Hlophe

Waheeda Peters