As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is committed to producing adaptive graduates who contribute meaningfully to the development of the region, South Africa and the world. Through sport, the University continues to cultivate discipline, leadership, teamwork and resilience, while promoting the holistic development of students both on and off the field.
S’bonelo Dlamini, a member of the DUT Communications team, recently sat down with DUT volleyball star Thandolwethu Mthembu to discuss her sporting journey, what inspired her passion for volleyball, and how she embodies the DUT Living Values through her participation in university sport.
Name: Thandolwethu Mthembu
Place of birth: KwaMhlabuyalingana, KwaZamaZama
Sport code: Volleyball
Qualification: Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Application Development
Q: When did you join the DUT volleyball team?
A: “I joined the team last year, in 2024.”
Q: What sparked your interest in volleyball?
A: “I fell in love with volleyball because it’s a fast team-oriented sport. It taught me discipline and communication. The energy on court is what keeps me going.”
Q: Tell us about the position you play and how it contributes to the team’s success.
A: “I play opposite and centre. As an opposite, I’m responsible for scoring and blocking on the right side, and as a centre I help with quick attacks and strong blocking in the middle. These positions benefit the team by creating attacking options and building a solid defense at the net.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I’m also interested in athletics because it build fitness, teamwork, and mental toughness which help me in volleyball too.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have participated in the University Sport South Africa (USSA) and Junior IPT. I was fortunate to win gold in both tournaments.”
Q: Why is it important for DUT to invest in student sport?
A: “It’s vital because sport builds discipline, leadership, and teamwork. It also gives us exposure, and helps us represent DUT with pride on national platforms.”
Q: Who are your role models and why?
A: “I wouldn’t say I have a role model. I believe everyone has something valuable to teach, so I take inspiration from different people both on and off the volleyball court.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and principles do you identify with most, and why?
A: “I identify with excellence and integrity. Excellence pushes me to perform my best in sport and academics, while integrity keeps me honest on and off the court.”
Q: Do you see a future in volleyball?
A: “Yes, I do. I want to keep growing, play at higher levels, and possibly coach or mentor younger players in the future.”
Q: As a DUT sports star, how do you make a positive impact in your community?
A: “As a DUT player from Mhlabuyalingana, I get to inspire young people back home to chase both academics and sport. I show them that with dedication and discipline , you can represent your university and country.”
Q: What impact has sport had on your life?
A: “Volleyball has made me more disciplined, confident, and focused. It taught me time management between studies and training, and gave me opportunities I never thought possible.”
Q: What can be done to attract more spectators to varsity sport?
A: “Foster a strong culture of school pride by encouraging participation from students, staff, alumni, and the wider community through incentives and collaborative promotional campaigns.”
