The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Alumni community continues to strive for excellence by producing adaptive graduates who lead with purpose, creativity and determination. Among these inspiring alumni is Azande Madlala, whose journey is a powerful reminder that success does not always follow a straight or predictable path. Guided by passion, resilience and a deep commitment to helping others, she has transformed her skills and creativity into a thriving business that extends her impact far beyond the classroom.
Originally aspiring to study medicine, Madlala found her true calling in Homoeopathy a discipline rooted in holistic health, healing and patient-centred care. She completed her Bachelor of Health Sciences in Homoeopathy (BHSc) at DUT, where her academic journey exposed her to diverse communities and real-world challenges. These experiences strengthened her values of empathy, accessibility and service, shaping both her professional outlook and personal growth.
Today, Madlala is based in Johannesburg, where she is the Founder and Operator of Azande Hair and Beauty. In a fast-paced, opportunity-rich environment, she has successfully grown her brand into a respected and sustainable business. Her role extends far beyond styling hair she manages daily salon operations, leads and mentors staff, serves a diverse clientele and ensures consistently high service standards, all while driving business growth.
Madlala’s entrepreneurial journey began during her student days at residence, where she started braiding hair purely out of passion. What began as a creative outlet soon revealed itself as something more. Over time, her skill evolved into a business, and eventually into her life’s purpose. Through Azande Hair and Beauty, she has not only built a successful brand but has also created employment opportunities, empowered young hairstylists with practical skills and boosted the confidence of countless clients through professional beauty services.
Reflecting on her time at DUT, Madlala credits the institution with shaping the foundation of her success.
“DUT taught me discipline, resilience and professionalism. It shaped the way I think, manage my time and work with people from different backgrounds skills that continue to guide my entrepreneurial journey. My qualification also prepared me to understand people’s wellbeing, care for clients holistically and manage my business with empathy and professionalism,” she reflected.
Building Azande Hair and Beauty from the ground up and sustaining it successfully remains her most meaningful achievement. Looking ahead, her vision is to expand the brand by opening more branches and growing its national footprint. Her goal is not only business growth, but also inspiring young women to pursue entrepreneurship, self-sufficiency and confidence in their abilities.
To current DUT students, Madlala offers heartfelt advice: “Focus on your studies and complete your qualification but also give yourself space to discover your purpose. Be open to where life leads you, even if it’s not directly related to what you studied. Following your passion can open doors you never imagined.”
Azande Madlala’s story embodies DUT’s ENVISION2030 vision of producing adaptable, resilient graduates who make creative, distinctive and impactful contributions to society. Her journey stands as a testament to the power of courage, perseverance and believing in one’s purpose.
Pictured: Azande Madlala.
Tiyani Mboweni
