As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates who will participate productively in the development of the region, the country, and the world. Through sport, the University continues to nurture discipline, leadership, teamwork, and holistic student development.
Durban University of Technology Communications team member S’bonelo Dlamini recently engaged with DUT sports star Simangaliso Perfect Mchunu, who graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Power Engineering at the 2026 DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony, to share his journey in sport, his passion for dance, and how he lives the DUT Living Values through his involvement in varsity sport.
Name: Simangaliso Perfect Mchunu
Place of Birth: Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal
Sport Code: Dance (Ballroom and Latin American)
Q: When did you become part of the DUT Dance Club?
A: “I joined the DUT Dance Sport Club in 2022. Since then, I have grown a lot as a dancer and as a person. The DUT Dance Club became like family to me. Every training session, competition, and even the stress before performances shaped me into the person I am today.”
Q: What sparked your interest in the DUT Dance Club?
A: I have always loved dancing and performing. Joining the DUT Dance Club gave me a chance to express myself, improve my skills, and compete at a higher level while proudly representing DUT. Once the music starts, the rhythm takes over and keeps you moving in sync with it.
Q: In terms of the role you play as a DUT Dance Club member, kindly elaborate on what it entails and how it benefits the members within your club?
A: “As a rising star dancer in both Ballroom and Latin American categories, I try to motivate and inspire other dancers in the club. I encourage discipline, teamwork, and hard work during practice and competitions. I also support younger dancers because I know how important encouragement is. Members of the DUT Dance Club always encourage one another to do better, and that positive energy helps us grow together.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I am also very interested in gym and fitness training because I enjoy keeping fit and building strength. Most people call me “Sgora” because I spend a lot of time in the gym. Sometimes people think I am a bodybuilder before they realise I am a dancer as well. Gym training helps improve my stamina, confidence, and performance on the dance floor.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The biggest tournament I participated in was the South African Championship. The competition featured more than 100 athletes from across South Africa, and some dancers even came from overseas. It was a great experience competing at that level, and finishing in fourth place made me even more determined to succeed.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “Sport helps students develop discipline, leadership, confidence, teamwork, and time management. It also keeps students active and motivated while balancing academics. DUT’s support for sport allows students to grow professionally and personally. The DUT Dance Club has shown us that sport can open doors and create opportunities beyond the classroom.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “My role models are successful international dancers and athletes who stay disciplined and committed to their goals. They inspire me to work hard and believe in my dream of becoming a champion dancer one day.
I also look up to my coach, Mr Richman Nhlapho. He deserves recognition for the dedication and patience he shows every day. He has produced South African champions and played a huge role in my growth as a dancer. From my very first cha-cha step to learning the art of shaping in Paso Doble, he has taught me everything.
Coach Nhlapho treats us like family and has taught us valuable lessons about discipline, confidence, and perseverance. Without him, I honestly do not think I would be where I am today.
Another highlight in my journey was being cast as one of the dancers in Shall We Dance 2024 and 2025 alongside Darren Hammond and Marina Steshenko. It was an amazing experience sharing the stage with such talented performers.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I associate strongly with excellence, integrity, and innovation. In both academics and dance, I always try to improve myself, stay disciplined, and represent DUT with pride. Whether I am in an engineering class or on the dance floor, I always strive to give my best.”
Q: Do you see a future as a dancer?
A: “Yes. I see myself becoming a future champion and competing at prestigious international events such as the Blackpool Dance Festival one day. Dance is a huge part of my life and future goals. I still have a long way to go, but I am determined to keep improving and pursuing my goals. Watch this space.”
Q: What impact has dance made on your life?
A: “Dance has changed my life in many positive ways. It has helped me build confidence, discipline, fitness, leadership skills, and friendships. It has also taught me how to handle pressure and work hard for my goals. Through dance, I discovered a version of myself that is focused, driven, and not afraid to dream big. I also want to mention my dance partner, Noks, who is my biggest support structure on the dance floor. During practice, we sometimes disagree about steps, timing, and who is right, although most of the time it is me. However, when competition time comes, we become one team. That partnership and trust are very important in dance.”
Q: Having recently graduated at the 2026 DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony; how does it feel to achieve this milestone while reflecting on your journey through sport and your development within DUT?
A: “Graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Power Engineering is one of my proudest achievements. Balancing academics and competitive dancing were not always easy, but it taught me discipline, perseverance, and determination.
I am proud that I managed to grow both academically and as a dancer while representing DUT. Being the first graduate in my family and the family’s “Inkosana” also comes with a lot of pressure and responsibility. My family has supported me throughout my journey, and I have always wanted to inspire my younger siblings to believe that success is possible through focus and hard work. Coming from Inanda, a community that faces significant socio-economic challenges, motivated me to push myself and make better choices for my future.
I did not want to become another statistic. Through education, dance, and discipline, I wanted to create a different story for myself and inspire other young people from my community to stay focused, study hard, and get involved in sport. I also appreciate the unwavering support from the DUT Dance team, our Sport Officer, Mr Pessa, who always makes it possible for us to travel and compete, and our manager, Mr Xolani Mbutho, who works hard to ensure we attend both local and international competitions. Their support means a lot to us as athletes. I am grateful to everyone who has believed in me, especially my parents and all those who have supported me throughout my journey.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “Universities can attract more spectators by promoting events on social media, involving influencers and students, and creating exciting entertainment during competitions. Dance performances, live DJs, crowd interactions, and fun activities can help create a great atmosphere. Students enjoy events that are energetic and entertaining.”
