Growing up in Umzinto, Shayamoya on the South Coast, Ms Anele Sibete had always dreamed of building a brighter future through education. At the age of 23, she proudly celebrated one of the biggest milestones of her life, graduating from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony at Indumiso Hall, today. She obtained her Diploma in Accounting Cum Laude and received the prestigious Dean’s Merit, proving that hard work and determination truly paid off.
Her journey at DUT began in 2023, and it was far from easy. Leaving home and adjusting to a completely new environment became one of the biggest challenges she had ever faced. There were moments of self-doubt, stress, and pressure, but she refused to give up. Instead, she used every challenge as motivation to work harder and remain focused on her goals.
Her transition to university was one of the most challenging parts of her DUT journey, as she had to adjust to living alone and making all her own decisions for the first time. Adapting to a new environment with students from different backgrounds was difficult, and she often felt out of place and lonely. However, she overcame these challenges by focusing on her purpose, building discipline, and maintaining a strict study routine.
“Graduating with Cum Laude meant everything to me. It became proof that hard work, sacrifice, and dedication truly paid off. There were many moments when I felt overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of myself, but I kept reminding myself why I started. Achieving this milestone was not only about obtaining good marks it was a reminder that I could achieve anything I set my mind to,” she expressed.
Sharing her biggest challenge, she explained that it came during her first year when she lost her funding. It was a heartbreaking setback that left her feeling shattered and uncertain about her future. During that same year, she also experienced the painful loss of her grandmother, which became one of the hardest moments of her life. Balancing grief, financial struggles, and academic pressure tested her strength in ways she had never imagined.
“After many challenges, my family’s reaction was priceless, especially my mom and my sister. They were overwhelmed with joy because I became the first person in our family to graduate Cum Laude. For them, this was something completely new and a proud moment they never imagined possible. Seeing their happiness made every sacrifice, struggle, and sleepless night worth it,” added Anele.
When asked which DUT Living Values and Principles she resonated with most, she said, “I strongly identify with the values of respect and excellence. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and kindness, while always striving to give my best in everything I do.”
Anele’s goal was to become a Chartered Accountant (CA) and one day be known as Anele Sibete CA(SA). Beyond this, she aspired to open her own Accounting firm where she could employ and mentor DUT graduates, helping them to grow into confident and skilled professionals in the accounting field.
“Stop procrastinating, laziness can hold you back from reaching your full potential. Failure is not the end but a steppingstone toward success. While social life and friends are important, they can sometimes become distractions so stay focused on yourself and your goals. Most importantly, never forget where you come from. Don’t settle for 50%; aim high, because the sky is the limit,” she concluded.
Pictured: Deans Merit Recipient, Ms Anele Sibete.
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
