The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 23 May 2026, marked a proud and emotional milestone for 28-year-old Thabile Shinga, who graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Relations and Communications Management.
Born and raised in Durban, Thabile currently works within the Corporate Affairs Division at DUT as a Communications Intern under the Communications Unit. Her role includes managing the institution’s Pinboard email system and sharing content across DUT’s social media platforms. Her journey within the institution began in 2023 when she joined as a Graduation Assistant before transitioning into the Communications Department in 2024.
Reflecting on her academic journey, Shinga shared that her time at DUT has been both rewarding and transformative. Having started her studies at DUT in 2017, completing her postgraduate qualification while working full-time became a deeply personal achievement.
“Pursuing this qualification while working full-time was a personal goal that represented growth, discipline, and the desire to continuously improve myself both professionally and personally,” she said.
Thabile explained that her decision to continue studying while working was inspired by her belief that learning never truly stops, especially in a professional environment that constantly encourages development and growth.
“I have always been someone who enjoys challenging myself, even when life becomes demanding. I wanted to prove to myself that it is possible to grow beyond comfort zones while still maintaining excellence in the workplace,” she explained.
Balancing academic responsibilities with a demanding work schedule was not without challenges. She admitted that there were moments when deadlines and pressure became overwhelming, but humour, discipline, and consistency helped her navigate difficult periods.
“There were days when deadlines felt like they were personally plotting against me, and my sleep schedule became more of a suggestion than an actual routine, humour became one of my greatest survival tools. I have always believed that if life is going to test you, you might as well smile through the process, even if that smile is accompanied by caffeine and academic panic at 2 a.m,” she explained.
Throughout the journey, Thabile remained motivated by her determination not to give up on herself, as well as the unwavering support she received from her family, friends, and colleagues. She also drew strength from knowing that she had younger siblings looking up to her as an example.
Thabile said the DUT values that resonated with her most throughout her journey were honesty, integrity, and professionalism.
“Honesty pushed me to continuously be ethically considerate, integrity taught me to maintain a strong moral compass during difficult moments, and professionalism reminded me to remain authentic throughout the process,” she said.
Her achievement was celebrated proudly by both her family and colleagues, many of whom had witnessed firsthand the dedication and sacrifices behind her success.
“I think some people were more relieved than I was because they no longer had to hear me crash out due to academic pressure, their reactions reminded me that success is never achieved alone. It is shared with the people who support you behind the scenes,” she said.
Looking ahead, Thabile hopes to continue growing within her field and contribute meaningfully to the communications profession. She also plans to pursue further studies in the future, believing education remains one of the most powerful investments a person can make.
She also encouraged first-year students to remain consistent and believe in themselves, even during difficult seasons.
“Success is not about perfection, it is about persistence. Never underestimate the power of good time management” she advised.
Pictured: Thabile Shinga
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
