Hlengiwe Ncanana, a 22-year-old from Pinetown, Marianhill, KwaZulu-Natal, has demonstrated remarkable dedication in her academic pursuits at the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Her journey, which began in 2020 with a Higher Certificate, has been marked by an outstanding achievement and valuable experiences.
Ncanana’s academic excellence was evident in her successful completion of her Diploma in Business and Information Management, followed by her Advanced Diploma in the same field, which she completed with a Deans Merit award. She celebrated her achievement at the DUT’s 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony, held at Indumiso Campus on Tuesday, 13 May 2025.
Throughout her time at DUT, Ncanana gained practical experience through academic tutoring and work-integrated learning, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. She also developed valuable skills in information management, technology, and business practices. Her current role as a Business Management Graduate intern has allowed her to apply her knowledge in technology and data management, gaining hands-on experience.
Her academic journey was not without challenges, as she had to depend on her parents for financial support, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity.
“I had to rely on my parents for financial support while also working part-time. Despite my efforts to earn extra income, it wasn’t enough to fully cover my expenses, so I had to lean on my parents for assistance. This experience taught me valuable lessons in financial management, resilience, and how to stay focused under pressure. It also reinforced my gratitude for the support I received and motivated me to work even harder to achieve my academic goals,” she said.
Ncanana strongly associates with the values of integrity, excellence, and accountability. These values guided her academic journey. Despite facing financial challenges, including relying on her parents for support while working part-time, she persevered and learned valuable lessons in financial management. Looking ahead, Ncanana aims to develop expertise in business management and technology, particularly in data analytics and digital transformation. Her goal is to become a well-rounded professional who can bridge the gap between business and technology, driving innovation and productivity in the business world.
For future students, Ncanana offers valuable advice urging them to be proactive in learning both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field.
“Develop a strong foundation in business principles while staying up-to-date with emerging technologies. Networking with peers and professionals is also crucial, as it can open doors to future opportunities. Lastly, stay disciplined and manage your time well, as it will help you balance your studies with personal development and any work experience you can gain along the way,” she said.
Ncanana’s story is an inspiration to students and professionals alike, demonstrating the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving academic and career goals.
Pictured: Hlengiwe Ncanana
Thubelihle Dumakude
