The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continues to commend its essential workers for their dedication and commitment in providing services to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. DUT’s Communications team’s Nomvelo Zulu spoke to Nkululeko Mbatha, Administrative Assistant under the division of Corporate Affairs at DUT.

Q:  Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I serve as an Administrative Assistant for Communications Department under the Division of Corporate Affairs.”

Q: How long have you been in that role? 

A: “I have been in this for 1 year and 9 months.”

Q: Please describe yourself in a few words?  

A: “I am 27 years old, a professional model and a Digital Content Creator. I am also busy with my master’s degree in Business Administration.”

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

A: “At first it was tricky because the workload for our office seemed to have tripled but we ended up getting the hang of it in a short space of time. Making sure that our DUT Community is rightfully updated in all angles, at all times, was the most fun part.”

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

A: “Just like any other virus and disease, we ended up learning how to live in the mist of COVID-19. At first it was very scary and sad when one looked at the rate of how people were just getting sick and dying. I prayed so much for myself and my loved ones, moreover I encouraged my family and friends to always keep safe.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “I have been living life on the daily as it comes. I try to have less expectations and goals, but I always aim to be a better person than I was the previous day.”

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

A: “On weekdays, it is work as usual, from 8:00am to 16:30pm, then I’m off to the gym and do a bit of reading and doing some work towards my master’s degree then relax. On weekends I take some time out to rest and connect with my friends and family.”

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

A: “I watch a lot of YouTube videos, specifically on content curating and music making and editing.”

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

A: “My wildest wish is to have at least one proper full day, conversing with my late mother and aunt. I miss their presence so much.”