As the graduation procession entered the King Bhekuzulu Hall this morning (Monday, 11 May 2026), among the graduands sat an individual who embodies the spirit of resilience and triumph of the human will.
At 51 years old, Bongekile Mngomezulu walked across the stage during the first session of the Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law’s graduation ceremonies. She received her BCom in Economics qualification, turning a long-held dream into a tangible reality.
Hailing from the Obanjeni area in Mtunzini, Mngomezulu’s journey was a masterclass in perseverance. As a married woman, a mother, and a full-time student, she navigated a path that many told her was no longer open to her.
Overcoming the “Why Now?”
When Mngomezulu first enrolled at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU), she was met with a chorus of scepticism. “People were asking me, ‘Why now?'” she recalls. “They told me I was too old, that I was already married with children, and questioned what I would even do with a career at this stage.”
There were dark moments where the weight of these questions nearly broke her resolve. “There were times I thought of quitting. I would think to myself, ‘this is not for me’.” Yet, in those moments of doubt, she anchored herself to her purpose: proving to the masses that education has no expiration date and showing her children that their mother never gives up.
A Community of Support
Bongekile credits her success to a powerful support system. She paid an emotional tribute to her husband and children, whose unwavering encouragement sustained her. She also extends her gratitude to her lecturers at UNIZULU.
“My lecturers never treated me differently because of my age,” she says. “I was treated just like any other student and encouraged every step of the way. This degree is for us all.”
The Journey Continues
While her degree is in Economics, her heart has always been in the classroom. Though she wasn’t initially accepted into the Bachelor of Education programme, she refused to let that deter her. With her BCom now in hand, she is already planning to register for a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in 2027 to finally pursue her dream career.
A Message to the Dreamers
As she celebrates today’s momentous occasion, Mngomezulu’s message to the public is clear: it is never too late to chase your dreams.
“You are never too old to learn,” she insists. “[Today, I walked] across that graduation stage as proof that all things are possible if you believe.”
– Precious Shamase
Picture: Lindani Msomi
