“VUT student Lesedi Nhlapo touched hearts with a portrait of Ms Ayanda MaNgubane Borotho during a discussion on her book, Unbecoming to Become, at VUT.”
02 June 2026 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture: Keitumetsi Mokgope
3 minutes read time.
While students, staff and guests gathered to engage with the powerful themes explored in Unbecoming to Become, it was a heartfelt portrait by Vaal University of Technology (VUT) student Ms Lesedi Nhlapo that created one of the most memorable moments of the day.
During a discussion on the book by author and motivational speaker Ms Ayanda MaNgubane Borotho, held at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall on 29 May 2026, the second year Information Technology student unveiled a portrait she had created in honour of the author.
The artwork immediately drew the attention of the audience. More than a simple likeness, the portrait reflected admiration, gratitude and a deep connection to Ms MaNgubane Borotho’s message of healing, resilience and personal transformation.
For Ms Nhlapo, who hails from Orange Farm, the drawing was a tribute to a woman whose story had deeply inspired her.
“What inspired me to draw Ayanda is that I truly admire her and her heart,” said Ms Nhlapo. “I wanted the portrait to reflect who she is as a person because I believe that what comes from someone’s heart is reflected in what they do.”
Although she is pursuing a qualification in Information Technology, Ms Nhlapo has quietly nurtured a passion for art for several years. Her artistic journey began in Grade 10 after a classmate encouraged her to attend free art classes.
At first, she was hesitant.
“I was focused on my schoolwork and did not think much about art,” she recalled. “But I started attending the classes consistently and that is how I developed my artistic skills.”
What started as an opportunity to try something new soon became a creative outlet and a talent she continues to develop alongside her academic studies.
Her story resonated with many students attending the discussion, particularly those striving to balance academic commitments with personal passions and ambitions.
Encouraging aspiring artists to embrace their individuality, Ms Nhlapo shared a message of self-belief and perseverance.
“Find your skill and your passion, and do not compare your craft with other people’s work,” she said. “Find your unique way of doing art because that is what will make you stand out.”
Despite feeling nervous as she presented the portrait, Ms Nhlapo described the experience as both emotional and rewarding.
“I was very anxious,” she admitted with a smile. “But I was also happy. She is such a lovable person.”
The themes explored in Unbecoming to Become centre on healing, growth and becoming one’s authentic self. In many ways, Ms Nhlapo’s portrait echoed those same themes, creating a meaningful connection between the author’s journey and the student’s artistic expression.
The moment served as a reminder that inspiration often moves in both directions. While Ms Borotho’s story inspired the artwork, Ms Nhlapo’s courage, creativity and authenticity left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
The discussion became more than a conversation about a book. It evolved into a celebration of talent, purpose and the remarkable ability of young people to use their gifts to honour the stories that inspire them.