As the Durban University of Technology (DUT) celebrates Women’s Month, the University shines a spotlight on women whose leadership, resilience and determination are making a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. Among them is PhD candidate Noluthando Zuma, whose journey from rural KwaMncane in Elandskop, Pietermaritzburg, to becoming a researcher, entrepreneur and advocate for women and youth empowerment reflects the transformative power of education, perseverance and purpose-driven leadership.
A devoted mother, researcher and entrepreneur, Noluthando believes that education has the power to transform lives and communities. Her passion for academia, entrepreneurship and student development continues to shape her journey as she strives to create opportunities for others while advancing research that addresses real societal challenges.
A proud DUT alumna, Noluthando holds a Diploma and a Bachelor of Technology in Human Resources Management, as well as a Master’s degree in Management Sciences, specialising in Public Administration. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management Sciences, specialising in Business Administration.
“My passion for academia and my desire to make a meaningful contribution to research inspired me to pursue a PhD,” she said.
“I have always enjoyed working with students, mentoring young people and creating knowledge that can influence policy and practice. As an entrepreneur who is still growing, I also recognise the value of research in developing innovative, evidence-based solutions that can support businesses and communities.”
Her doctoral research focuses on developmental agency funding models and financial inclusion for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in rural and urban communities across KwaZulu-Natal. Through this work, she hopes to contribute practical solutions that strengthen entrepreneurship, improve access to funding and promote sustainable economic development.
Beyond academia, Noluthando is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of UThando LoMatomela, an events management company based in Elandskop, Pietermaritzburg. She also serves as a Director of The Uprising Innopreneurs Foundation and participates in the DUT Innobiz Business Incubation Programme, where she continues to strengthen her entrepreneurial and business development capabilities.
Her commitment to student success is equally evident. With more than four years’ experience as an Academic Advisor within the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT), together with previous roles as a Student Resident Assistant and Resident Advisor, she has mentored and supported students throughout their academic journeys.
Noluthando’s passion for empowering women extends beyond the classroom. As Executive Advisor to the Qhakaza Ladies Network and Co-Chairperson of the DUT Innobiz EDHE Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP) Executive Board, she continues to champion initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation and women’s economic empowerment.
Motherhood has also played a defining role in her journey.
“My daughter is my greatest motivation,” she explained. “Motherhood has strengthened my resilience, discipline and sense of purpose. It has taught me to manage my time effectively, remain focused on my goals and lead with compassion. Every day, she reminds me that perseverance, education and hard work create opportunities not only for myself but also for future generations.”
Like many successful women, Noluthando has faced challenges along the way. One of the greatest has been finding opportunities that aligned with her academic, personal and professional aspirations.
“Rather than allowing setbacks to discourage me, I have continued to seek development opportunities, build meaningful networks and remain committed to learning. Every challenge has strengthened my determination to keep moving forward and to create opportunities where they do not already exist.”
Reflecting on Women’s Month, Noluthando says it is both a celebration and a call to action.
“Women’s Month celebrates the strength, resilience and achievements of women while recognising the work that still needs to be done to achieve equality and empowerment. Through my involvement in the Qhakaza Ladies Network and the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme, I have witnessed the power of women supporting and uplifting one another. It is a time to inspire, mentor and encourage young women to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence.”
When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, Noluthando’s answer reflects her commitment to service.
“I hope to leave a legacy of leadership, academic excellence, entrepreneurship and service. I want to be remembered as someone who empowered students, particularly young women, through mentorship, research and entrepreneurial development. In my community, I aspire to create opportunities that promote education, economic empowerment and sustainable development, proving that where you come from should never limit where you can go.”
Noluthando credits much of her determination to her mother, who remains her greatest inspiration.
“After getting married and raising three children, my mother returned to school to complete Grade 12 before pursuing further studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She eventually earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in her late forties. Even when employment opportunities were limited, she never gave up. She baked cakes, sold various products and continued striving for a better future for our family. Her resilience, determination and unwavering belief in the value of education taught me that success is not defined by age or circumstances, but by the courage to keep moving forward.”
Sharing a message with young women, Noluthando said; “Never allow your circumstances to determine your future. Believe in your abilities, invest in your education and embrace every opportunity to grow. Success is built through consistency, resilience and purpose. As women, we have the power not only to transform our own lives but also to inspire, uplift and create lasting change within our communities. Lead with confidence, remain authentic and never stop believing in the value you bring to the world.”
Through her achievements in research, entrepreneurship, student development and community engagement, Noluthando Zuma embodies the spirit of Women’s Month. Her journey demonstrates how education, determination and service can empower individuals to transform not only their own lives, but also the lives of those around them.
Pictured: DUT PhD candidate Noluthando Zuma.
Tiyani Mboweni
