Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s), Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Londeka Chonco, a 22-year-old from uMsinga, KwaZulu-Natal, has achieved an outstanding academic success, Londeka graduated with an Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting, and achieved cum laude at the DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation ceremony.
Chonco’s academic journey is an influential story of determination, after she had completed her Diploma in Management Accounting in 2023, where she also graduated cum laude, she pursued her Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting in 2024. The road was not one without challenges, from long nights of studying to doubting herself and mental fatigue. “There were times I sat in the library for hours and could not complete even one exercise. The content was too heavy, and I felt discouraged,” said Chonco.
Despite the challenges that she had faced, growing up without her mother was a painful experience for her. She never gave up; her dedication and courage helped her to turn the challenges into achievements, and the love and support she received from her father and family filled the gap. One of the major challenges that she had faced during her studies was financial issues, she had no bursary, and her father stepped in to support and fund her studies. “His support meant everything to me. I knew I had to make all the sacrifices worth it,” she said.
Her reaction when she found out that she has passed with cum laude, Chonco said she could not believe it. “I kept logging into the student portal to confirm it was real. I cried tears of joy and said a prayer of thanks to God,” she said. Her family, especially her father, was filled with pride. “My dad was overjoyed. It felt like his sacrifices had been recognised. His encouragement played a huge role in my success,” she shared.
Chonco’s love for accounting began in high school, which was inspired by her accounting teacher, who brought the subject to life with engaging lessons and real-world examples. “I’ve always been drawn to numbers and problem-solving. Management Accounting felt like the perfect fit because it helps businesses make important financial decisions,” she explained.
Chonco is currently working as a finance intern in a well-respected organisation, gaining valuable hands-on experience. She hopes to secure funding so that she can further her studies and become a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
Chonco expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported her during her studies, “To God, thank you for giving me the strength to overcome every challenge, to my father, you were my rock, my biggest supporter, and the reason I didn’t give up, my family, thank you for your endless encouragement and lastly, to my lecturers, tutors, and peers, your support and knowledge shaped me into the person I am today,” she said.
Pictured: Londeka Chonco
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Siphokazi Dlamini
