The identity of the young man who has kept the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) and scores of other individuals outside of the institution entertained with his traditional and urban dance moves has finally been revealed.
The long-awaited reveal occurred on Monday, 11 May 2026 during the second session of the Faculty of Commerce, Administration and Law.
This followed an entire year that the University community had wondered about and, at times, attempted to guess who was under the beloved mascot, uZu. All this while, Bachelor of Laws graduate Mcebo Mathonsi remained mum about his secret role – not telling even those closest to him. When he ascended the graduation stage, he took on his role one more time, for good measure. With his sharp tan suit and the mascot head on, he teased to lift the head three times before he finally showed his identity. The crowd roared with excitement.
Now that his face has been unveiled, here are a few facts about the graduate who effortlessly brought the University mascot to life with his animated moves and endearing personality.
Personal life
Mathonsi grew up in rural eMacambini in Mandeni where he and his four younger siblings were raised with love by his grandmother, father and aunts. Home for him is not only where love is abundant, but also where he gets to enjoy his all-time favourite meal: sweet potato cooked by his granny. His personality can be summed up in five words: vibrant, confident, people-oriented, expressive and flexible. However, on rare occasions, he does have bouts of shyness. He prefers to put his feelings on paper, in the form of poetry, to watching a game of soccer.
A passion for the law
He studied law because he wanted to be the “voice of the voiceless”, ensure that justice is served, while bringing peace and harmony to society. As being of service to others comes naturally for him, he was certain that this career path was the best fit for his personality.
Being uZu
Part of keeping his role as uZu a secret, Mathonsi found himself having to engage in several discussions and debates about the “man who plays uZu” without blowing his cover. He described such moments as simply humorous. Playing the role of the mascot was a great experience, he said, as he was able to make people happy without them knowing who he was.
“I enjoyed putting a smile on students’ faces because as students we go through so much without letting others know. At times, we just need something or someone to cheer us up, so I was happy to be that person. I enjoyed being part of the branding of the institution and dancing with the former Vice-Chancellor,” he added.
Support during academic journey
Though he registered to study as an individual, he certainly did not walk his academic journey alone. Multiple people played a part in him successfully completing his studies. These included his family, friends and lecturers. He paid special homage to the uThingo Residence owner, his friend Nondumiso Nhlapho and law lecturer Prof Thoilane Matadi for her motivation.
– Naledi Hlefane
Izithombe: James Thwala
