A remarkable journey of courage and redirection defines this inspiring story of transition from Information Technology into the healthcare field. Raeesah Jhazbhay will proudly graduate with a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Diagnostic Radiography from the Durban University of Technology DUT during the 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremony taking place this May at the Olive Convention Centre. This milestone represents not only academic success but also a journey defined by perseverance sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to pursuing a meaningful career path.
Born and raised in Durban KwaZulu-Natal Raeesah’s path to success has been one of resilience and purpose. After matriculating in 2020 she initially faced disappointment when she was placed on a waiting list for her dream programme in 2021. Refusing to let this setback define her future she pursued a qualification in IT Software and Systems Development while continuing to work toward her long-term goal. In 2022 her determination was rewarded when she was accepted into the Diagnostic Radiography programme at DUT.
From the outset of her academic journey Raeesah understood that this opportunity represented more than just a qualification it marked the beginning of a lifelong calling in healthcare. Over the course of her studies she demonstrated exceptional commitment to both academic excellence and clinical competence. Her dedication resulted in 32 distinctions and recognition as the Top Academic Student in both her second and third years.
Beyond her academic achievements Raeesah took on significant leadership roles serving as both Class Representative and Clinical Class Representative. In these roles she played a vital part in bridging communication between students and faculty advocating for nearly 100 students in the Radiography department. This experience strengthened her leadership abilities and her capacity to manage responsibility under pressure.
Her clinical training at Jack Persad and Partners Inc Specialist Diagnostic Radiologists JPI further highlighted her excellence where she was honoured with the Student of the Year Award from 2022 to 2025. In addition Raeesah was selected to present at the SORSA Symposium in December 2025 contributing to discussions on the future of radiography and the role of artificial intelligence in medical imaging an area closely aligned with her background in information technology.
Reflecting on her journey Raeesah describes her graduation as a deeply meaningful achievement. “I have worked tirelessly for this moment often sacrificing rest and social time to stay committed to my goals. Every challenge I faced reminded me why I started and every success affirmed that I was on the right path,” she said.
Like many healthcare students her journey was not without challenges. Balancing leadership responsibilities with demanding academic and clinical schedules often led to exhaustion and moments of burnout. However these experiences shaped her into a stronger more resilient professional.
“Success is not about avoiding challenges but about learning how to overcome them with resilience and purpose,” she added.
Currently completing her community service as a Diagnostic Radiographer in a rural town in the North West Province Raeesah has already begun making a meaningful impact. Working in a resource-limited environment with a single X-ray unit she has taken on both clinical and administrative responsibilities demonstrating independence adaptability and leadership early in her career.
Raeesah identifies respect as one of the DUT Living Values that resonates most with her. She views respect as the foundation of her professional identity essential in ensuring patient dignity and fostering effective collaboration within healthcare teams.
Looking ahead she plans to pursue a Master’s degree and specialise in Mammography and Computed Tomography with long-term aspirations of establishing her own radiography practice. Her vision is to combine innovation with patient-centred care while contributing to the advancement of medical imaging in South Africa.
To students beginning their academic journeys Raeesah offers heartfelt advice “Stay committed remain disciplined and never lose sight of your purpose. The journey may be difficult but every step you take is shaping you into the professional you are meant to become.”
Sinamile Sithole
