With this achievement, I would like to dedicate it to my late father, as much as he is no longer with us but I know he is with me in spirit and is proud of me,” said Nhlanhla Siyabonga Zulu.
Zulu graduated for his Diploma in Accounting at the 2022 DUT Autumn Graduation ceremony which was held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre, ICC this morning, Thursday, 14 July 2022.
Being the first son among four siblings, Zulu was a surprise child as his mother had made peace that she may not have a son, and when he was born his proud, late father named him.
“The funny story is that since the birth of his siblings his father never took paternity leave but for Zulu’s birth he took the entire month of leave at work, celebrating the birth of his first son,” said his emotional mom.
According to his mother, Zulu has always been smart and a focused child and has always been her son’s solid support system. When he was called on stage his mom started ululating and singing praises of celebration and being the replica of his father, this brought back so many memories for her. She was bursting with pride for her son’s achievement.
As much it was such a celebratory moment for the family, it also brought back all the memories of the passing of his father. They had to endure the pain of celebrating their son’s graduation with his father being late.
With his future endeavours he is hoping to launch into the world of work much easily without any difficulties. Considering the trauma and the strain that comes with looking for employment he hopes to remain positive and be in sound state of mind. He is hoping to add much needed value towards the qualification he has obtained.
He conveyed words of gratitude and acknowledgement to his mother and grandmother for their tireless support and for their constant prayers. They also instilled in his character to be a child of prayer as well and rely more on God for guidance. Receiving the immense support from his family motivated and inspired him to complete his studies and make his family proud.
Pictured: The Zulu family.
Picture credit: Mfundiso Khanyile
Nonkululeko Ngcobo