11 April 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani | Photo: Sifiso Nomzaza.
2 minutes read time.
When you meet Mr Carcidio Khoza, you immediately sense a quiet determination that comes from having shouldered responsibility single-handedly.
Raised in Pretoria West and moulded by the vibrant community of Atteridgeville, Mr Khoza has always been an activist at heart, a man who steps into leadership roles to create meaningful change. As he graduates with a Diploma in Graphic Design from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), his journey has been defined by his dedication to both his craft and his fellow students.
His Student Representative Council (SRC) story began as General Secretary, but his relentless drive quickly saw him rise to Chairperson. Recognised as a compelling presenter for the Green Campus Initiative (GCI) conference, he became the sole Academic Officer at VUT, a responsibility he openly admits was immense because it rested on the shoulders of one person alone. Representing the academic concerns of over 23,400 students, Mr Khoza built robust support networks and forged strong relationships with departmental administrators, ensuring that no student’s educational journey was compromised.
One of his proudest moments was coordinating the registration of over 4,000 students on the first day, a record-breaking achievement that underscored his exceptional planning and unwavering belief in student success.
His leadership and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Among his many accolades, Mr Khoza has been honoured with:
- 2023 Student Volunteer of the Year
- 2023 & 2024 Environmental Stewardship Awards
- 2024 Global Citizen Award
- A Centre for Academic Development  (CAD) Graphic Design Mentor
Speaking on balancing the demanding roles of an SRC leader and a student was no small feat, “I had to be disciplined and proactive,” Mr Khoza reflects. “Every spare moment was an opportunity to prepare, communicate, and ensure that my academic and SRC responsibilities received the attention they deserved.”
Mr Khoza’s journey is a testament to the power of single-minded dedication. His advice for future student leaders is simple yet profound: “Lead with purpose, not popularity. Real change starts by listening, understanding, and then acting with conviction.”
Whether Mr Khoza remains a familiar face on VUT’s campus or ventures into new challenges, his legacy as a leader, a designer and a changemaker is firmly established. His journey is far from over; it’s only just beginning.
Congratulations, Mr Carcidio Khoza. Your remarkable story of leadership and perseverance inspires us all.
