Bongani Njilo’s journey is an inspiration as he has redefined impossibilities, risen beyond limits, and overcome adversities. Bongani is a young man living with left sided unilateral hearing impairment from Pietermaritzburg in Imbali, and he graduated with his Bachelor of Health Sciences in Diagnostic Radiography in record time at Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremony.
There is one person who has kept him going: his late sister Nomfundo Njilo, to whom he dedicates his degree.
“In her honour, I am determined to continue pushing forward, not only to reach where she aspired to go, but to exceed it by pursuing my postgraduate studies to the level of Doctor of Philosophy in Radiography and potentially becoming a professor,” Bongani said.
For Bongani, graduating this year is deeply emotional and meaningful. It represents victory over doubt, fear, and limitation. It is proof that resilience, faith, and determination can overcome obstacles. This achievement affirms that disability does not defi ne destiny.
Living with left-sided unilateral hearing impairment made his academic and clinical journey demanding, especially in fastpaced healthcare environments where communication is critical. Bongani is proud that he persevered and completed the qualification within the prescribed four years. Through faith, discipline, and determination, he pushed to the finish.
“Living with a hearing impairment required accountability for my growth, professionalism in clinical settings, commitment to excellence, and compassion toward patients and colleagues,” he added.
Bongani is the second person in his family to graduate. His family was overwhelmed with pride and joy. The first graduate was his late sister, who passed away in 2025 while preparing to pursue her master’s degree.
Balancing academic pressure and clinical responsibilities while managing his hearing impairment was one of the hardest challenges. There were moments of self-doubt and fear of being misunderstood. However, Bongani developed adaptability, focus, and resilience. He refused to allow his condition to defi ne his capability.
Bongani strongly associates himself with five DUT core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect, and accountability, supported by fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion, and excellence.
Radiography was Bongani’s deliberate choice. He has always been fascinated by diagnostic imaging and its crucial role in patient care. Radiography combines science, technology, and compassion, qualities that align with who he is. Despite his hearing impairment, he chose not to limit himself and pursued a career that challenges and fulfils him.
Bongani aspires to pursue postgraduate studies, specialising in advanced imaging modalities such as MRI, and eventually advance to master’s and PhD level. His long-term goal is to contribute to research, innovation, and academic development within Radiography.
In addition, he aims to become a highly skilled and specialised Medical Imaging Technologist, particularly in advanced modalities, contributing to healthcare excellence, academic research, mentorship, and eventually leadership within the profession.
To first-year students, Bongani shared some profound advice, urging them not to let fear define their future. He added that challenges will come, but discipline, faith, and perseverance will carry them through. Students must remain committed, ask for help when needed, and never underestimate their potential as obstacles can become their greatest testimony.
Currently, Bongani is completing his community service in Limpopo, serving patients, and gaining valuable professional experience in clinical practice.
Pictured: Bongani Njilo
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Vukani Langa
