For many years, Zinhle Zondi carried a dream that felt distant and almost impossible to reach. Today at the age of 30, that dream finally became a reality as she proudly received her first qualification, a Diploma in Tourism, during the 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Indumiso Campus Hall in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
Originally from Greytown, Zinhle’s journey to graduation was not easy. Behind the smile she wore on graduation day was a story filled with sacrifice, pain, resilience, and unwavering determination. As she walked across the stage to receive her qualification, she became emotional and broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the reality that after years of struggle and delayed dreams, she had finally made it.
After completing matric at the age of 19, Zinhle hoped to further her studies immediately. However, life had different plans for her. With no one employed at home and her family struggling financially, she had no choice but to put her dreams on hold and look for work to help support her family.
While many of her peers continued with their education, Zinhle spent years carrying responsibilities far bigger than herself. She worked tirelessly, sacrificing her own ambitions so that her family could survive.
“I knew education was important, but at that time my family needed me more, it was painful watching time pass while I was unable to study, but I never gave up on my dream.”
Hope finally returned when her sister secured employment, giving Zinhle the opportunity to return to school and pursue the future she had always wanted. In 2023, she enrolled to study Tourism, determined to make the most of her second chance.
But the challenges did not end there. During her first year, she was defunded by NSFAS, leaving her uncertain about whether she would be able to continue her studies. Despite trying everything possible to resolve the issue, she was unsuccessful.
There were days when she did not know where her next meal would come from. Through the hardship, the Phakimpilo Food Security Programme became a source of hope, assisting her with food parcels and vouchers when she needed them most.
“Those food parcels and vouchers helped me survive during one of the most difficult periods of my life, there were moments when I felt like giving up, but something inside me kept saying, keep going.”
Determined not to let financial struggles destroy her future, Zinhle used every spare moment she had to work as a hairdresser on weekends and during her free time. The little money she earned was carefully saved to help pay for her registration and other academic needs.
While balancing studies, financial stress, and work, she remained focused and committed to her education. Against all odds, Zinhle completed her qualification in record time.
Walking across the graduation stage was more than receiving a diploma it was proof that delayed dreams are still valid, and that perseverance can overcome even the toughest circumstances.
To other students who may suffer that same way as her she offered advice: “To anyone going through difficulties, never lose hope, your situation now does not define your future. Keep fighting for your dreams, even when life becomes hard. One day your sacrifices will be worth it,” she said.
Pictured: Zinhle Zondi
Photography: S’bonelo Sithole
Sinamile Sithole
