Against all odds, 26-year-old Sinakho Nzuza from Stanger, KwaDukuza, turned financial hardship into academic excellence after graduating Cum Laude and receiving a Dean’s Merit Award at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
Sinakho received her qualification during DUT’s Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. She graduated with an Advanced Diploma in Marketing Management and is currently continuing her academic journey through a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Sciences at DUT.
Her path to academic excellence was not easy. Filled with financial struggles, uncertainty, and moments of self-doubt, Sinakho’s journey became a true reflection of resilience, faith, and determination.
“My journey at DUT has been an eye-opening experience filled with both challenges and opportunities. My focus throughout has always been to thrive despite those challenges and become the best version of myself,” she said.
Receiving both Cum Laude and Dean’s Merit recognition came as an overwhelming moment for Sinakho, especially after enduring severe financial difficulties during the past academic year.
“Honestly, I am still struggling to believe it, last year was extremely difficult financially, and I truly do not know how I managed except through God’s grace and the support of my grandmother, who has always been my strength behind the scenes,” she shared.
One of the most meaningful parts of her achievement is that her grandmother was finally able to attend her graduation ceremony for the very first time.
“She could not attend my graduation last year because of financial reasons, so having her there this time means everything to me,” she said.
Sinakho also expressed gratitude for the support she received from DUT during one of the most difficult periods of her life. While living in residence, she faced food insecurity, but the university’s Phakimpilo food security programme became a lifeline.
“I applied for the programme and received a monthly voucher that made a significant difference in my life. It allowed me to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about where my next meal would come from,” she explained.
As the first graduate in her family, Sinakho views her achievement as both a personal victory and a responsibility to inspire others who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“It is an honour to be the first graduate in my family. I want to pave the way for others and show that success is possible regardless of your background or circumstances,” she said.
Although marketing was not initially her first choice of study, she has grown passionate about the field and believes it aligns perfectly with her future ambitions.
“My goal is to establish myself in the academic space and become someone young people can look up to. I want to show others that no matter where you come from, your dreams are valid,” she explained.
Sinakho says one of the values she resonates with most at DUT is respect, a principle deeply instilled in her by her grandmother from a young age.
“She always taught me that respect opens many doors. I carry that value with me in every space I enter, whether with lecturers, peers, or my community,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Sinakho hopes her story will encourage first-year students, especially those facing hardships, to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles they may encounter.
“To any young black student, I want to say always remember why you started. No one understands your circumstances better than you do. Work hard, stay disciplined, and trust the process,” she advised.
Pictured: Top achiever, Sinakho Nzuza during her graduation.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
