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.
Sompisi Ntuli, a member of the DUT Communications team, recently sat down with DUT Dance star Siyabonga Shange to discuss his sporting journey, what inspired his passion for dance and how he embodies the DUT Living Values through his participation in university sport.
Name: Siyabonga Shange
Place of birth: Umlazi, Durban
Sport code: Dance
Qualification: Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined in the beginning of of this year, which is my first year.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “Dancing goes well with my love for music. The way the music feels triggers how my body moves.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “There aren’t any positional roles but I was deemed the male captain for this year due to the hunger to develop and being a figure of passion in the team, I was given the duty to take the reigns when the coaches are not around.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Basketball. I’ve always had the passion for it since I was young.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have participated in the University Sport South Africa (USSA) Dance Tournament.
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “It serves as an escape from the academic pressure and it also opens another means of building a name for yourself”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Junior Yudat, a French dancer, his style of dancing matches what I strive for in terms of ability and status.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Integrity. I will always push myself and have a chip on my shoulder.”
Q: Do you see a future in your sport?
A: “Yes, I do see a future in dancing and I want to become the best battle dancer in this country.”
Q: As a DUT star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “It inspires people who have a creative mind to thrive and explore using their bodies and connect with music.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Dancing has helped me discover my identity and I am now able to look at the mirror and actually love what I see.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “They should try to promote other sports more and give an equal base in terms of exposure and opportunities rather than the main three, which is soccer, rugby, and netball.”
