A member of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) choir, Khayelihle Khulekani Mamba delivered a captivating solo performance during his first-time graduation ceremony. He successfully completed his Diploma in Management Sciences in Business Law at the DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony, held on Thursday, 22 May 2025, at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban.
Mamba’s family watched with pride as he took the microphone and performed on his graduation day, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and making the performance more unforgettable.
Reflecting on his journey at DUT, Mamba shared that it began in 2021, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, when he faced significant challenges, including not being funded by NSFAS. Despite these hurdles, his family’s support proved invaluable, helping him cover living expenses in Umlazi during his first year. However, financial constraints eventually led him to make the difficult decision to return to Pongola. Despite these challenges, Mamba thrived at DUT, describing the institution as feeling like a ‘home away from home.’ Although Law was his initial career aspiration, he ended up pursuing Business Law, discovering a new passion.
Hailing from Pongola, Ncotshane, the 23-year-old, shared that the DUT living values and principles that resonate with him are respect, honesty, and commitment. He noted that respect is deeply ingrained in his community, where it’s taught from a young age and practiced daily.
Mamba’s entrepreneurial dream began with selling muffins, a journey he described as challenging but ultimately rewarding. He expressed his enthusiasm to exploring new products, eager to unlock further opportunities and grow his business.
“I did not just start singing in the DUT choir; my journey began when I joined my school choir in Grade four. Performing solo pieces was a bit daunting, especially when I started in Grade seven, but I overcame that fear. Singing at my graduation felt surreal, like I was in a different world. However, when you’re passionate about something, you can push through and deliver your best,” he said.
Mamba advised first-year students to focus on their goals while also exploring other aspects of life. He emphasised that prioritising their studies is crucial for learning and personal development. Additionally, he encouraged students to take advantage of DUT’s various organisations and activities, which welcome participation from all students. “Living by the DUT values should be your top priority,” he said.
Pictures: Khayelihle Mamba after his solo performance at DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
