As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. S’bonelo Dlamini, DUT Communication’s team member, recently engaged with the DUT volleyball star, Mawande Dlamini to share her student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Mawande Dlamini
Place of birth: Richard’s Bay
Sport code: Volleyball
Qualification: Diploma in Management Accounting
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined the team in February 2024.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “Amongst the all sports I played, volleyball made me believe in myself.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what is entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “I play the outside hitter position, which is a position that is required to provide crucial blocks and defensive plays that assists in neutralising the opponents attacks against our team.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I am interested in football because of the hard work, along with dedication that is put in during training and matches.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I had three biggest tournaments I have participated in namely; the Team SA in Malawi 2022, University Sport South Africa (USSA) indoor tournaments in Limpopo in July 2024 and Confederation of Universities and Colleges Sports Association (CUCSA) games in Pretoria in July 2024 where I played for the team USSA (team SA).”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “DUT can identify and nurture talented student athletes, potentially producing future national and international sport stars.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Thaisa Menezes from Brazil. I am inspired by her hard work, communication and dedication that she brings towards her team.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Respect, commitment and excellence because I believe that these values can create many opportunities for myself as well as others. “
Q: Do you see a future in Volleyball?
A: “Yes, I would like to become a professional volleyball player.”
Q: As a DUT star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “I motivate and inspire young volleyball enthusiasts to pursue their passion thus developing their skills.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “It improved my communication skills and helped in shaping me into a more disciplined individual.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sports?
A: “Using social media and using posters to advertise the upcoming games may be very effective. It is not just sports but it is where one finds happiness, dedication and create friends which may be your family as time goes by.”
