From Inanda, in the north-west of Durban, Mandisa Patience Mngoma (24) has successfully graduated from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) during the 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony, which took place on Thursday, 21 May 2026, at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC). She completed her Advanced Diploma in Dram and graduated Cum Laude and was also awarded the Dean’s Merit Award, a recognition of her outstanding academic performance and dedication to excellence.
Reflecting on her time at DUT, Mngoma describes her university experience as life-changing and deeply transformative. She also mentioned that DUT became much more than an institution.
“It became a home away from home where she discovered her strengths, built confidence, and learned valuable life lessons. One of the opportunities that had a significant impact on my journey was becoming a tutor, a role that allowed me to support fellow students while simultaneously develop leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills,” she explained.
She also expressed that graduating with Cum Laude is a representation of hard work, resilience, personal growth, and the belief that even through difficult moments, perseverance can ultimately lead to success.
When asked about the DUT living values and principles she resonates with the most, Mngoma said she strongly identifies with excellence and integrity. Throughout her journey, these principles guided her approach to both her studies and personal development, teaching her the importance of remaining committed to her goals, continuously striving to do her best, and maintaining honesty and discipline even during difficult circumstances.
When her family heard the news that she would be graduating Cum Laude, their reaction was filled with pride and emotion. Knowing that her loved ones had supported and encouraged her throughout her studies made the achievement even more meaningful and rewarding. Their excitement reminded her that her success was not only personal but also shared with those who stood beside her throughout the journey.
“My qualification was always my first choice because my passion for the field began back in high school. From an early age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to express my creativity while also making a positive and meaningful impact through the work that I do,” she expressed.
She further shared her plans to continue her studies while growing both academically and professionally, with the long-term goal of mentoring and inspiring future generations of creative and innovative thinkers.
Offering advice to first-year students who wish to follow a similar path, she encourages them to remain patient with themselves and not allow temporary difficulties to determine the outcome of their journey.
She believes that consistency, resilience, and self-belief are essential ingredients for success and reminds students to always remember the reason they started, especially during difficult moments.
She expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported her throughout her journey, including her family, friends, and lecturers. She believes her experience at DUT taught her some of life’s most valuable lessons about resilience, as well as the importance of never giving up on oneself.
Pictured: Mandisa Patience Mngoma
Khulasande Tshayile
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
