Failing matric did not stop Philile Thembalethu Nyawo from pursuing her dreams, as she proudly walked across the stage to graduate for her Advanced Diploma in Business Administration with Cum Laude, during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre.
The 25-year-old from KwaMashu has turned what once seemed like a setback into an inspiring story of resilience, faith, and determination. After failing matric in 2018, Philile made the courageous decision to return to school in 2020, driven by her dream of attending university and furthering her studies. Her journey eventually led her to complete her Advanced Diploma in Management Sciences: Business Administration, proving that perseverance and hard work can transform disappointment into success.
Raised by her paternal grandparents, her educational journey has not been without challenges. After failing her matric in 2018, she faced a crossroads that could easily have discouraged her from pursuing her dreams further. Instead, she made the courageous decision to return to school in 2020.
“It has been a rollercoaster, but also a very enjoyable experience, because seeing myself at university was something I had always dreamed of especially after failing my matric in 2018. I made the decision to return to school in 2020. It was not an easy decision, but I was driven by a deep desire to one day attend university and further my studies. Coming from a family where my aunts and siblings had gone to university, they became my inspiration and motivation to pursue my own academic journey,” she explained.
Although she admits that administration was not initially her first choice of study, she soon discovered a genuine passion for the field.
Throughout her studies, Philile continuously challenged herself to strive for excellence. During her diploma studies, she had set a personal goal of graduating cum laude, but narrowly missed achieving it. Rather than allowing disappointment to define her, she used it as motivation.
“Seeing myself now graduating Cum Laude with a Dean’s Merit Award is a confirmation to me that as long as I apply myself and remain focused, anything is possible. During my diploma, I had told myself that I wanted to complete my qualification and graduate Cum Laude. I came very close, but it did not happen and I was still proud of myself regardless. When I later registered for my Advanced Diploma, I told myself that I owed this achievement to myself. By God’s grace and faithfulness, I am overjoyed that it has finally happened, and I will be graduating Cum Laude,” she explained.
Faith has remained central throughout her academic journey. Describing herself as a “Jesus-loving young woman,” Philile believes her achievements are a reflection of God’s guidance and strength in her life.
Equally important has been the unwavering support of her family. From the moment she chose to return to high school after failing matric, her loved ones stood beside her with encouragement and love.
Pictured: Philile Thembalethu Nyawo
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Thubelihle Dumakude
