Hailing from the community of Chatsworth, Sfanelo Ntini has carved a remarkable path of academic excellence and personal growth. A determined and driven individual, Ntini graduated Cum Laude and prestigious Dean’s Merits Award for his Diploma in Marketing Management Sciences from the Durban University of Technology (DUT). The Graduation Ceremony was held at Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Thursday, 22 May 2025.
Ntini’s academic journey at DUT began in 2022 at the ML Sultan Campus, under the Marketing and Retail Department. Right from the outset, he distinguished himself academically, securing first position in his class during his first year and receiving a Certificate of Academic Excellence.
His second year at DUT was equally impressive. He achieved second position, again earning academic recognition, while also being awarded a Certificate for Excellence in DUT Living Values for his selfless contribution to tutoring fellow students including those with disabilities. His commitment to education and community support reflected the DUT values of compassion and integrity, principles that Sfanelo deeply embodies.
In 2023, Ntini’s exceptional academic and interpersonal skills earned him selection for an International Student Exchange Programme at Ravensburg DHBW University in Germany. From January to March 2024, he successfully completed a programme in International Business Studies, gaining invaluable global exposure while continuing his third-year studies back at DUT.
In 2024, he concluded his diploma studies by once again obtaining first position in his class, ultimately graduatingCum Laude and receiving the Dean’s Merit Award a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Despite numerous challenges, including financial constraints and the pressures of balancing tutoring with his own studies, he remained focused and determined. Through academic excellence he secured bursaries to support his journey. He often says that he learned the most through helping others a clear reflection of his servant leadership.
As the first graduate in the Ntini family, his success has brought immense pride and joy to his loved ones. Though Marketing was not his initial career choice, he has since developed a deep passion for the field, recognising its essential role in driving organisational success and innovation.
Ntini is currently enrolled for the Advanced Diploma in Marketing Management Sciences, Ntini is committed to continuous learning. He has plans to pursue his Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, with aspirations to publish marketing research and develop practical tools that bridge the gap between theory and real-world business challenges.
Pictured: Sfanelo Ntini
Sinamile Sithole
