The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continues to commend all its essential service workers for their dedication and commitment in providing services to the DUT community during the COVID-19 pandemic. DUT’s Communications team’s Simangele Zuma spoke to Ms Pretty Zulu, Fundraising and Stewardship Officer in the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office at DUT.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am the Fundraising and Stewardship Officer in the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office; under the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement. I work to aid the University in generating third stream income for specified University projects; as well as maintaining already existing donor relations.”

Q: How long have you been in that role?

A: “I have been in this role, as a permanent staff member, for two years.”

Q: Please describe yourself in a few words?

A: “I would like to think I am kind, funny, empathetic and always willing to help. Granted, I also have my moments of allowing my overthinking to ruin any hopes of being productive for the day but what’s a human without a bit of balance.”

Q: How has it been like working during COVID-19?

A: “It took me a while to get a rhythm and commit to it. Adjusting was a tad challenging because the pandemic really affected the funding received, that we were accustomed to getting from donors.”

Q: How do you deal with the fear of contracting COVID-19 and losing loved ones because of this virus?

“If I’m honest, I don’t have that fear. Losing loved ones due to COVID-19 or any other circumstance is not something one can get used to.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “That varies daily; some days are lucky to have such a privilege.”

Q: Please take me through a normal day in your life?

A: “My days involve a lot of sitting in one place with the laptop and only moving when it’s a necessity. I rely on technology a lot to get my work done and that’s why load shedding is my biggest nemesis at the moment.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: “I enjoy looking at nature; especially the ocean, listening to music in the car is somewhat therapeutic just as much as doing meditations. I also enjoy my Korean series and music. I become completely engulfed and attached to the characters. So much so, I find myself speaking the words I have picked up here and there, in my almost four years of being a fan.”

Q: If you had one wish what would it be?

A: “Depending on how realistic I’m allowed to be, I would go for, I wish for everyone to heal from traumas they are suffering from, knowingly or unknowingly and be happy.”