Sailing star Sbonga Sibiya is making waves both on the water and in academics after graduating Cum Laude with a Diploma in Nautical Studies at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.
For Sibiya, the achievement marks the reward of years of hard work and determination.
“I feel very happy and proud to graduate this year. It shows that all my hard work has paid off. It is a big achievement for me and my family,” he said.
The 21-year-old from Inanda said his journey was challenging, but worth it.
Raised by a single mother who carried the family’s financial responsibilities alone, Sibiya was determined to ease the burden on her. Although he applied for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) several times without success, he later received support from the General Botha Bursary Fund.
The bursary not only provided financial assistance, but also connected him with mentors who have extensive experience in the maritime industry and continue to guide him in building his career.
Sibiya said he strongly believes in values such as commitment, hard work, honesty, and perseverance which are part of the ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles. “Pressure makes diamonds,” he said.
Despite the stress of lacking financial support, he remained focused, put in extra hours, and continued working hard until he secured the bursary.
Sibiya developed an interest in Nautical Studies while in matric in 2022 after his friend, Shamir Rampersadh, introduced him to careers at sea and sparked his passion for the maritime industry.
Rampersadh also introduced him to sailing, a sport that quickly became another passion. Through his bursary, Sibiya was introduced to the Sail Africa Youth Development Foundation, which empowers young people through sailing initiatives.
The organisation provided him with opportunities to attend maritime events and connect with experienced professionals, further confirming that the maritime industry was the career path he wanted to pursue.
Sibiya said the career requires continuous learning and development, and he hopes to build a strong reputation in the maritime sector while gaining valuable experience and growing professionally.
Beyond academics, Sibiya works as a Sailing Assistant Instructor at Sail Africa Youth Development Foundation, where he assists qualified instructors in teaching beginner sailing courses to aspiring young sailors.
Pictured: Sbonga Sibiya
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Vukani Langa
