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Mbambo Aims to Advocate for Human Rights Through Land

Mbambo Aims to Advocate for Human Rights Through Land

Chumile Mbambo urges students to work hard on their studies in order to succeed in their academic journey. Mbambo graduated today, 08 May 2018 with a BTech in Town and Regional Planning at Fred Crookes Sport Centre, Steve Biko Campus in Durban.

Mbambo achieved remarkable marks and obtained her BTech with Cum Laude from the Durban University of Technology (DUT). “I know it sounds cliché but hard work really pays off. You reap what you sow. If you are a full time student, at least 80% of your time must be dedicated to your studies. Somebody is watching and help will come your way. It may not be immediately but the time invested in your studies will reap the greatest fruits in the future. The company you keep is also very important, surround yourself with people that have the same vision as you,” said Mbambo.

Hard work did pay off for Mbambo after she received a bursary as a result of her impressive academic performance. “I’ll never forget the day I got a call from my sponsor Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA), when they said they will cover all my expenses including meals. This lifted a huge load off my shoulders and my mom wouldn’t have to struggle as much for my education. This was absolutely life changing for me as I could now focus my studies without worrying about whether I can afford to or if I’ll have something to eat at the end of the day,” explained Mbambo.

The Ngwelezane born Mbambo could not contain her excitement about her graduation. “Graduation for me is a huge milestone. I can now begin my career as a Planner with sound knowledge about what is happening in the field. However, this is merely the beginning of the work I have to do in improving my life and that of my family,” said Mbambo.

Mbambo who was raised by her mother following separation of her parents in 2004, said she acknowledges that she could have not achieved this without support from his family, friends, classmates and mentors. “A number of people played a role in my academic journey. The first being my mom who has been my number one fan and pillar of strength, and family members that have supported her and indirectly supporting me. Secondly, my mentor Theunis Roux who has never held back in sharing his knowledge in Town Planning with me and took me in as his daughter and friend which is beyond his mentorship duties. Lastly, my friends and classmates who were so passionate about their work, that would pick me up when I am discouraged and made sure that I always put my best foot forward,” added Mbambo.

The dynamic Mbambo said she is looking forward to making a contribution on the topical issue of land reform using the skills she has acquired. “I would like to be one of the people that stand up for the rights of all South Africans, especially in addressing the past injustices brought upon millions of South Africans by the system of Apartheid. Too many of these injustices still haunt the people of this country especially the youth. This course has formed a formidable foundation on this topic and I hope that I will be able to make significant changes on this, especially on issues related to land and the laws that govern it,” said Mbambo.

Pictured: Chumile Mbambo

Nduduzo Ndlovu

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