Thembalethu Ngcobo, affectionately known as Zuzu, hails from Ulundi section L, where he has persevered through many life challenges and emerged with unwavering determination. Raised by two aunties, he experienced both the warmth of family and the heartbreak of loss when one of his guardians passed away during his grade 10 year. Despite this painful setback, Ngcobo refused to be derailed. “Losing someone who raised me was painful, but it pushed me to focus even more,” he reflected. Coming from a paternal family of four, with his father working in Johannesburg, he learned early on to depend on inner strength and discipline. Ngcobo is now registered for the B Com (Business Management and Accounting), he matriculated from Gqokamandla High School, a place he speaks about with deep admiration. “I’m proud of my school. It produced 100 percent pass rate three years in a row,” he says with pride. With such a strong academic foundation, choosing an equally productive university became a natural next step. UNIZULU was among his top choices, not only because it is close to home, but because it represented opportunity, growth, and new beginnings.
However, like many first‑year students, Zuzu faces uncertainties. One of his biggest fears is financial constraints. “My biggest worry right now is not knowing how I’ll pay my fees if NSFAS doesn’t fund me early,” he admits. Luckily, his excitement about starting university outweighs his anxiety.
Adjusting to independent living is another new chapter for him. Having grown up in a supportive household, living alone is both unfamiliar and thrilling. “It feels strange, but I’m excited. At least I won’t be wearing a school uniform anymore,” he said with a smile.
As a young man who has navigated hardship with grace, Ngcobo is intentional about sharing advice with other students entering the world of higher education. “Apply early so you don’t struggle with accommodation or sit in the dark while others are accepting their offers,” he advised.
To him, success is built on preparation, humility, and clarity of purpose. “Be patient, talk to people, ask for help. Don’t have pride. Know what you want at university and work hard with passion,” he emphasised.
For Ngcobo, failure is not an option, not after everything he has overcome. “You can’t afford to fail your academics when you’ve already conquered so many challenges,” he said with conviction. Beyond academics, he is ready to showcase his athletic talent and contribute to the University’s sporting excellence. He is especially eager to join the UNIZULU soccer club as he is confident in his skills on the pitch.
His message to his peers is simple yet profound, “Don’t throw in the towel when things get tough. If you don’t get admitted to university, try a TVET college. There are many paths to success.”
– Sbahle Dumakude
