What began as a childhood fascination with dressing dolls grew into a powerful story of purpose and passion for fashion. Anele Ngubane, a 21-year-old from Tshelimnyama in Pinetown, graduated Cum Laude with her Diploma in Clothing Management from the Durban University of Technology during the DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony held on 20 May 2026 at the Olive Convention Centre. She also received the Dean’s Merit Award in recognition of her outstanding academic performance.

Her three-year academic journey was one of discovery and growth. “Academically, it was amazing because it brought out a side of me I did not even know I had, especially my creativity and how detail oriented I am,” she reflected. Through her studies, Anele was exposed to various aspects of the fashion industry, which helped her gain confidence and refine her skills.

Her dedication did not go unnoticed, and she was recognised as a high achiever, which further motivated her to excel. Anele resonated deeply with DUT’s core values and principles of excellence, commitment, and fairness, which she applied in both her academic and personal life.

Despite her achievements, she faced numerous financial challenges, particularly delays in receiving NSFAS allowances, which often meant studying under difficult conditions. “Sometimes I had to study on an empty stomach, but those moments taught me patience and how to keep going even when things were not easy,” she explained.

Through it all, her family remained her biggest support system and celebrated every milestone with her. For her mother, this achievement symbolised the rewards of years of sacrifice and dedication to her daughter’s education. “My family was very excited to hear that their daughter was graduating in record time,” she said.

Anele explained that studying fashion was not her first choice, but it had always been part of her journey. As a child, instead of playing sports, she spent her time designing clothes for her dolls, an early sign of the passion that would later shape her career.

She then continued furthering her studies with an Advanced Diploma in Apparel Technology and set her sights on becoming a lecturer. She remained passionate about sharing knowledge and inspiring future students, just as she had been inspired during her own journey.

Anele was also completing her internship at a workwear clothing manufacturing company, gaining valuable hands-on experience and bridging the gap between theory and industry practice.

To first-year students, Anele offered honest advice: “No career is easy. This field requires creativity, patience, and a willingness to keep learning. Use every opportunity you get. That is how you grow,” she advised.

Pictured: Sinamile Sithole
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile

Sinamile Sithole