Lethokuhle Mhlongo born in eMlazi F section, in her final year, was faced with uncertainty in her academics as she could no longer afford to pay for her studies.

Thanks to her department who assisted her in applying for bursary, the 20-year-old graduated with her Diploma in Fashion and Textiles at the Durban University of Technology 2024 Spring Graduation ceremony, which took place at the Durban Exhibition Centre on Thursday, 19 September 2024.

“In my final year I experienced financial challenges however the department was able to assist with my bursary application which was successful, and I was able to get all my tuition fees paid off by the bursary,’’ added Mhlongo.

It gets stressful, however, seeing your design through is always so rewarding, it is the best feeling ever.
Expressing her excitement Mhlongo said she is grateful and thanked everyone who contributed to her success.

“I am very excited, and my family is extremely proud of me and I’m grateful for their never-ending support,’’ said Mhlongo.

Her journey with DUT, in the fashion department started in 2019. Mhlongo claimed it had not been easy but was worth it. She was challenged and pushed to work hard.

She believes the DUT ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles that contributed a lot in her academic success were transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability.

“In all the values and principles that DUT upholds, I associate the most with respect. I learnt to truly respect and take pride in my work and to also respect all deadlines equally,’’ added Mhlongo.

She also shared her undesirable love for fashion design. “The design process, from paper to everything in-between to the final garment can get stressful, however, seeing your design through is always so rewarding, it is the best feeling ever,’’ she added.

Mhlongo has also won the Student Recognition Award for her third-year range at the Fashion Exhibition last year where all the third years showcased their work. She then advised first-year students to manage their time well, give their studies as much time as they can, and always prioritise their studies.

Pictured: Lethokuhle Mhlongo as she graced the graduation stage.

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Vukani Langa