Mandela University’s April Graduation ceremonies celebrated not only academic achievements but also the incredible resilience, determination, and courage of its graduates.
Among the inspiring stories were those of a father-daughter duo, a single mother overcoming great odds, and a young woman who pushed through unthinkable challenges to set an example for her community.
Francois du Plessis, a Video Production Technician in the Media and Communication Department, graduated with a BA Honours in Media Studies.
For Francois, an alumnus of Mandela University in photography, his journey spans almost three decades at the institution. As part of his honours coursework, he produced the collaborative film, Soul Release, which has been selected for the prestigious SIEF (International Society for Ethnology and Folklore) conference in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Reflecting on his time at Mandela University, Francois said, “Mandela University has been a significant part of my life. The support and camaraderie I’ve experienced here, from colleagues to staff across campuses, have been invaluable. Everyone I’ve met and worked with since 1996 holds a special place in my heart.”
His pride doubled as he graduated alongside his daughter, Tia du Plessis, who earned her Certificate in IT End User Support. Continuing her studies towards getting a Diploma in Support Services, Tia is also gaining hands-on experience as a part-time lab assistant in the Media and Communication Department.
“Having Tia graduate alongside me is a moment I will cherish forever,” Francois shared. “It shows that education is not just about personal growth but about sharing that journey as a family.”
Equally inspiring was the story of Nadia Kassim, a single mother of five boys, who received her MBA during the graduation ceremonies. At 39 years old, Kassim embarked on a journey of education to better provide for her family.
Along the way, she faced unemployment, commuting struggles, and personal tragedies, including the murder of her eldest son, Muneeb Kassim, in 2021, and the loss of two nephews and a close family friend in a car accident just months later. “Despite everything, I knew I had to grow and improve myself, not only to be a better mother but also to be the role model my sons deserved,” said Kassim.
Through resilience and support from her community, Kassim earned multiple qualifications, ultimately completing her MBA. “You’ll never have all the answers before you start, but you’ll figure it out along the way. You’ll find a way to make it work,” she said, encouraging others. At 54, Kassim is not done yet – she has set her sights on Islamic Studies and possibly a PhD.
Another story of triumph is that of 24-year-old Caitlyn De Beer from Bethelsdorp. De Beer graduated with an Advanced Diploma in TVET despite being a full-time worker, a new mother, and a full-time student in 2024. After discovering her pregnancy just months before enrolling, she faced feelings of shame and uncertainty but was determined to persevere.
“I remember standing outside the registration venue, noticing I was the only pregnant girl. I felt ashamed, but I pushed through,” the young mother shared. Throughout her studies, she balanced her responsibilities as a mother to her daughter, Nevaeh Nova, while resigning from work to complete her teaching practical. “I can still remember the nights we both sat up, me finishing my essays while she was alongside me,” she said.
“I want to motivate others who feel discouraged. Seeing a local girl achieve her dreams can inspire others to do the same,” she added.
Her message for young mothers struck a chord: “Motherhood isn’t easy, but you’ll find your way. Flaunt that pregnant body – it’s a blessing to carry a child. God wouldn’t put something on your path you can’t handle.”
From father-daughter milestones to courageous single mothers and trailblazing young women, the stories shared during this graduation season inspire others to dream big, work hard, and never give up. “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great,” Nadia Kassim aptly summed up the spirit of this graduating class.
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