From a humble background to becoming a Cum Laude alumna of the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Thandeka Brightness Nkosi’s academic journey is a testament to the power of education and personal drive. Her achievement was celebrated at the DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation ceremony on Friday, 23 May 2025 , where she graduated for her Diploma in Management Sciences in Operations Management.
Born to a family where her father no longer worked and her mother had never worked, Nkosi attended schools where no school fees were paid. She further acquired a full sponsorship from Toyota SA Motors to pursue her studies, making her achievement even more remarkable.
Her academic journey at DUT began in 2022, and she has overcome numerous challenges as a part-time student balancing work and studies. Currently employed by Toyota SA Motors as a vehicle assembler, Nkosi’s passion for understanding how businesses work and her enjoyment of problem-solving and working with data drove her to pursue a career in management sciences.
Nkosi’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for her family. Her family’s excitement and pride in her achievement are a testament to the impact of her hard work.
“Being the first in my family to ever graduate is one thing, to achieve that in Cum laude no words can describe it, all I can say is that dedication, perseverance and long nights pay dividends when it’s due,” said Nkosi.
She also believes that continuous learning is essential in the field of management and operations, which is constantly evolving with technology and data-driven strategies. Her aim is to grow within the manufacturing industry by gaining experience in operations and production and eventually move into a management role.
“I do plan to study further. I believe continuous learning is important, especially in a field like management and operations that constantly evolves with technology and data-driven strategies . My aim is to grow within the manufacturing industry by gaining experience in operations and production and eventually move into a management role where I can help improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support continuous improvement,” explained Nkosi.
Pictured: Thandeka Nkosi
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Thubelihle Dumakude
