Patience Nontobeko Makhaye, a 26-year-old from KwaMashu, has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing her Advanced Diploma in Public Relations at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).

Her journey was marked by challenges, but she persevered and excelled in her studies, demonstrating her dedication and resilience. She graduated during the Faculty of Management Sciences session, held at the Durban Olive Convention Centre ( OCC) on Thursday, 22 May 2025.

Her experience at DUT has been wonderful, despite being challenging at times. As a student, she faced sleepless nights and juggled motherhood and three jobs, showcasing her ability to multitask and prioritise her responsibilities. Her determination to succeed is a testament to her strong work ethic and commitment to her goals.

Her family was thrilled about her achievement, proud to see her excel academically. She chose to study Public Relations to advance her skills, building on her existing Diploma in Journalism.

“They are so happy for me.  I am the first one to get two belts and they are very proud of my achievement,” said the joyful Makhaye.

 As she plans to further her studies with a Postgraduate Diploma next semester, demonstrating her desire for continuous learning and growth, Makhaye aims to develop a strong foundation in communications, build meaningful relationships, and drive brand success. She advises first-year students to be true to themselves, focus on their studies, and be bold. According to her, success in the media industry is achievable with hard work and determination.

Makhaye strongly resonates with the value of  Accountability, saying it promotes transparency, trust, and personal growth.

“By taking ownership of my actions and decisions, I am able to learn from mistakes, build strong relationships, and drive results. Accountability helps me stay focused, motivated, and committed to delivering high-quality work,” she explained.

Currently, she is an intern at DUT’s Student Recruitment department, gaining valuable experience in her field. Her role allows her to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, developing her skills and expertise. Makhaye’s story serves as an inspiration to young people, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, they can achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen careers.

Pictured: Patience Makhaye

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini

Thubelihle Dumakude