On Thursday, 21 May 2026, during the Faculty of Art and Design session at the Olive Convention Centre, 31-year-old Thandeka Madikizela took the stage to receive her Postgraduate Diploma in Fashion Design from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), beaming with pride and happiness.
Hailing from Tongaat, a small town on the North Coast of Durban, her journey is one marked by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering passion for storytelling through fashion.
What began as a pursuit of technical training evolved into a transformative experience that shaped her identity as both a designer and storyteller. Under the guidance of highly skilled and supportive lecturers, she refined her craft while learning to use fashion as a powerful medium for expression.
Throughout her academic journey, she has achieved remarkable milestones. From showcasing her work and winning awards to gaining opportunities to study abroad, Thandeka has embraced every platform presented to her. Her designs have also attracted attention beyond the university, leading to invitations to present her work in private spaces, often discovered through DUT’s social media platforms and exhibitions.
Equally impactful has been her role as a tutor to fellow students. This experience not only allowed her to give back but also expanded her understanding of the diverse possibilities within the fashion industry.
“Another meaningful part of my journey has been the opportunity to tutor fellow students. Supporting others in their learning has broadened my perspective and shown me just how many possibilities exist within the field of fashion. My experience at DUT has been incredibly enriching, and it continues to inspire me to explore new creative directions and pursue the many opportunities that lie ahead”, she said.
In reflecting on DUT’s values and principles, she identifies strongly with all of them, but highlights integrity and respect as foundational to both personal and professional success. She also aligns closely with fairness and professionalism, principles she believes are essential in ensuring equality and maintaining high standards in any environment.
“The values that stand out most to me are integrity and respect, as they form the foundation of both personal character and professional conduct. With principles I strongly associate with fairness and professionalism, as these ensure that all individuals are treated equally and with respect, while maintains a high standard of conduct”, she narrated.
Her journey, however, has not been without challenges. After completing her Diploma, which was funded by NSFAS, Madikizela had to transition into a self-funded student. Unable to afford accommodation near campus, she returned home and undertook a daily commute of approximately four hours. This demanding routine tested her physically, mentally, and financially, often limiting the time and energy she could devote to her studies. Despite these obstacles, she persevered with determination.
Her decision to study fashion design was rooted in a lifelong passion for creating garments. Although she initially studied at a private institution, she found it lacking in the depth of training she desired. Choosing to start anew at DUT proved to be a turning point, offering her the supportive and enriching environment she needed to truly develop her skills.
Looking ahead, Madikizela is determined to continue her academic journey. She plans to pursue a Master’s degree in 2026, with aspirations of becoming a fashion design lecturer. In addition, she aims to establish herself as a creative director, building and growing her own clothing line.
For first-year fashion design students, her advice is candid and honest: passion is essential. She warns that the field can be emotionally demanding, requiring long hours and constant reinvention. “You are only as good as your last work,” she notes. However, for those who are truly committed, the rewards are profound, particularly the moment when ideas and sketches materialize into tangible creations.
Pictured: Thandeka Madikizela
Thubelihle Dumakude
