After receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from the previous Impilo Yasemakhaya exhibition in 2024 at Ntabankulu, Eastern Cape, Khulasande Tshayile, a proud Durban University of Technology (DUT) alumnus and passionate photographer, has continued a mission of inspiring rural communities through an initiative, which blends photography, cultural preservation, and education. This project returned to the Eastern Cape on Friday, 31 January 2025, at Mnceba Technical School in Ntabankulu, reaffirming a commitment to uplifting young learners and community members.
Earlier in the month, Tshayile and his team successfully hosted Impilo Yasemakhaya at Shumayela Secondary School in Umlazi Township, all in the name of social cohesion and to showcase the livelihoods of Ntabankulu to Grade 12 learners of Umlazi. The learners benefited from this photography exhibition and career guidance not forgetting university entry requirements for students who wish to consider photography as a course and career. Khulasande further emphasised that the initiative is not just about showcasing his photography but also about educating and inspiring learners from rural areas, particularly those preparing for higher education and hence the reason why Grade 12 learners were targeted.
“We need to show young people, especially those in rural communities, that there is life in art. Many students feel limited in their career choices because they do not realise the opportunities available in creative fields. You do not have to be an A-student to succeed you just need to be hardworking and use your skills wisely,” Tshayile explained.
He further expressed his desire for ImpiloYasemakhaya to grow and reach even more learners in underprivileged communities.
One of the biggest challenges facing learners in Ntabankulu and other rural areas is the lack of knowledge about university application processes. Many students are unaware of the Central Applications Office (CAO), which facilitates university applications in KwaZulu-Natal.
To address this gap, Mr Michael Zulu from DUT’s Student Recruitment unit was present at the event, he explained the application process and distributed DUT pamphlets detailing the various faculties, courses, and entry requirements. He also encouraged learners to take their education seriously and strive for good results, emphasising that a solid academic performance can open doors to higher education.
Looking back to the previous year, ImpiloYasemakhaya helped multiple learners with their university applications, and five students from Ntabankulu successfully enrolled in university. One of them, Amahle Mkhathu, is now a second-year DUT student pursuing a Diploma in Management Science: Marketing.
Mkhathu expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Tshayile for changing her life.
“When Impilo Yasemakhaya came to our school, I had no idea about CAO or how to apply to universities in KwaZulu-Natal. They educated us, guided us, and helped us apply. I was accepted at DUT, and I’m so grateful. I hope this initiative continues to grow so that more learners from disadvantaged rural areas can receive the same opportunity,” she said.
The success of the event at Mnceba Technical School did not go unnoticed. Mr. Magugu Monde, a representative of the school, extended his gratitude to Tshayile and DUT for choosing their school and helping their learners.
“We truly appreciate this initiative. Many of our students lack information about university applications, and Impilo Yasemakhaya is filling that gap. We would love for Tshayile and DUT team to return mid-year to assist learners with their 2026 applications,” said Monde.
Adding to the event’s impact, DUT alumni Kenneth Shandu and Minenhle Nxele also addressed the learners, sharing their university experiences and offering words of encouragement.
“Have a purpose and a plan for your life. Use your mind and hands to build a future, your talent could be the key to your success,” advised Shandu.
With each exhibition and outreach effort supported by the National Arts Council and in collaboration with DUT, Tshayile continues to inspire, educate, and empower learners, proving that passion, creativity, and dedication can create lasting change. The vision for Impilo Yasemakhaya extends beyond photography it is about opening doors to opportunities, preserving culture, and shaping a brighter future for rural youth.
Pictured: Learners from Mnceba Technical School in Ntabankulu excited after Impilo Yasemakhaya exhibition.
Photographer: Tshayile Media.
Sinamile Sithole
