By: Puleng Maphisa – 21 August 2023

In the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, a small village named Kingsley sits quietly, surrounded by rolling hills and an abundance of natural beauty – there lies a tale of struggle, determination, and eventual triumph. Meet Sanele Nxumalo, a beacon of inspiration who emerged from the humble origins of Kingsley to become a Student Advisor for the esteemed Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT).

Sanele’s journey, in her own words, began as an uphill battle – the odds seemed stacked against her, but she was never discouraged. Armed with ambition and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, she embarked on a remarkable educational journey that has now become an embodiment of success over adversity. Her academic accomplishments are a testament to her dedication – she holds a National Diploma and BTech in Industrial Engineering from VUT. Her passion for learning led her to attain a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education and currently enrolled for her Master’s in the same discipline.

However, it’s not just the academic accolades that define Sanele’s journey. It’s her genuine desire to give back and make a difference that sets her apart. As a Student Faculty Advisor, her role is to hold the hands of young scholars, guiding them through the academic road. Sanele holds a guiding light, imparting wisdom and encouragement to students who might otherwise have felt lost.

One of her profound aspirations is to witness the empowerment of girl children from the ground, up. “I envision a world where every girl feels safe, protected, and capable of achieving her dreams,” she says. Moreover, Sanele is an advocate for increased female leadership, citing studies that highlight the success of women-led corporations and countries, particularly during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. She believes that the world can benefit immensely from the wisdom, intuition, and resilience that female leaders bring to the table.

Sanele’s journey is a reminder that adversity can be a catalyst for greatness. Through her role as a Student Faculty Advisor, she is not just shaping young minds, but also shaping a future where potential knows no bounds. Her story underscores the power of determination, the impact of mentorship, and the potential for change when one person decides to break barriers and reach for the stars.

In a time where the significance of mental health has come to the forefront, Sanele finds comfort in nature and regular hikes have become part of her life.