From the quiet community of Bhamshela came a young man with a dream bigger than his circumstances. Samuel Thabani Mchunu, a determined 23-year-old, understood from an early age that education would become the bridge between his present reality and the future he envisioned for himself, his family, and his community.
With immense pride, he walked across the stage at the Olive Convention Centre on Friday, 22 May 2026, to receive his Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering, graduating Cum Laude and being recognised with the Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence.
In 2023, Samuel left home to begin a new chapter at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), where he enrolled for a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering (BEng Tech Civil Engineering). He moved to Pinetown to stay with his father, carrying with him not only his belongings, but also the hopes of his family. Like many first-year students, university life was not easy. The transition from home to higher education brought unfamiliar challenges, and without attending orientation during his first year, adapting to campus life became even more difficult.
“Some of the challenges I faced included time management where I needed to balance between my personal life and school work, financial difficulties, academic pressure, and adapting to university life, more especially during my first year since I did not attend orientation in 2023 when I was enrolled which I believe was going to me adapt to university life,” he said.
Despite these obstacles, he refused to allow hardship to define his journey. Financial difficulties, academic pressure, and the constant struggle to balance personal life with demanding coursework tested his resilience. There were moments when the workload felt overwhelming, when deadlines seemed impossible, and when exhaustion threatened to overshadow his ambition. Yet through discipline, he continued to push forward.
The news of graduating with Cum Laude brought overwhelming joy to his family. As the first graduate in the family, Samuel’s achievement became a source of celebration, pride, and inspiration. His parents, relatives, friends, and lecturers had supported him throughout his academic journey, offering encouragement during difficult times and celebrating every milestone along the way.
“My family was very proud and emotional because they have always supported and encouraged me throughout my studies. I believe that since I am the first graduate in the family, they are more excited to celebrate this moment with me,” he explained.
Motivated by his passion for infrastructure development and improving communities, he is currently pursuing an Honours degree, while also seeking opportunities to gain industry experience. His vision is clear; to become a successful professional engineer who contributes meaningfully to society and creates a better future for his family, his community, and himself.
Pictured: Samuel Thabani Mchunu
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Thubelihle Dumakude
