Despite facing discouragement and negative remarks from people who doubted her potential, Nonkululeko Zondo has proudly become the first graduate in her family. She was overcome with emotions when she attained her Diploma in Tourism at the Autumn Graduation ceremony which was held at the Indumiso Campus Hall in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.

Nonkululeko from Mtubatuba in KwaZulu-Natal touched many hearts at the ceremony when she cried on the graduation stage. Mrs Lindiwe Zwane, Faculty Officer from the Faculty of Management Sciences comforted her, encouraging her to embrace her big moment.

Sharing her story, Nonkululeko said she could not hold back her tears on stage as she recalled the struggles she had faced throughout her academic journey. For her, this achievement marked a beacon of hope for her family.

“It was mainly tears of joy. I am the first generation to graduate my family from my grandmother’s children. It is a true blessing for me and I am grateful to God for this opportunity. It was not easy, I come from a poor family where both my parents are unemployed. I faced a lot of criticism from people and some making fun of my family,” shared Nonkululeko.

She is proud of herself for proving that through determination, resilience and hard work one can overcome any obstacle. She shared that despite people telling her she would never succeed, she refused to let their words define her future.

Her mother, Mrs Prisca Zondo (52) congratulated her elder daughter for leading by example. She hopes her three younger siblings will follow in her footsteps.

“When her name was called on stage, I had to look back from where we come from and I praised God for such a blessing. Her graduation proved wrong those who vowed that she would never succeed. I am proud of her for having the courage to persevere despite all the challenges she faced. It was not easy but she made it, glory be to God. I wish her well and I pray she finds a job. She must continue having a thick skin and not all people to stand in the way of her dreams,” added Mrs Zondo.

Her achievement not only marks a personal victory, but also inspires others from disadvantaged backgrounds to remain focused on their goals regardless of the challenges they encounter.

Pictured: The emotional Nonkululeko Zondo during her graduation.

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.

Simangele Zuma