Motivational Seminar inspires students for academic and personal success

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recently hosted the Academic Advising Motivational Seminar aimed at equipping undergraduate students with the mindset and habits essential for both academic and personal success.

Hosted under the theme: “Habits of Successful Students,” the seminar was organized by Academic Advising Unit at the Centre of Academic Development (CAD), in collaboration with VUT Ekhaya Alumni, IHAU and Residence Living and Learning. The seminar began with a warm welcome from Dr. Annie Moletsane, Director: Student Academic Development Support & WIL, who set an encouraging tone for the day by emphasizing the importance of cultivating habits that lead to success. Dr Moletsane also urged students to fully engage with the insights that would be shared throughout the event.

Following her address, the Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Twanano Hlongwani and Secretary General, Vutshila Manganyi also extended their message of support and encouragement to the hundreds of students in attendance.

Among the speakers was Gift Dlamini, a VUT alumnus who has built a multifaceted career as the Founder of Gifted Image, Couples Therapy sessions, and more. Dlamini shared her remarkable journey of resilience, recounting how the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her career in Human Resources and led her to explore new avenues. Her story highlighted the importance of adaptability and the courage to pursue one’s passions, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

Gomotsegang Modillane, known as Mac-D, also shared his story, blending his background in political sciences with his passion for dance. He recognized his talent for dance at an early age and began to nurture it. His breakthrough came in his varsity days where he joined a dance group that competed at high level competitions. Through his company, Fitness Icon SA, he has turned his love for dance into a wellness movement. Mac-D’s journey demonstrated how passions can be transformed into meaningful careers and encouraged students to find joy in their pursuits, using creativity as a driving force for success.

Another keynote speaker, Eve Rasimeni, also VUT alumnus and a South African actress recognized for her roles in e-TV’s “Scandal” and Netflix’s “Savage Beauty,” offered a deeply personal account of her path to success. Despite becoming a mother at the age of sixteen (16) and facing numerous professional and financial setbacks, Eve persevered, driven by her passion for the performing arts. Her story served as a powerful reminder that resilience and a strong support system are crucial in overcoming adversity and achieving one’s dreams. Today she is dubbed as one of South Africa’s A-list actresses.

Financial influencer Percy Singo, who holds a Master’s Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Witwatersrand, shared practical financial advice with the students. As the founder of Be Wise Financial Seminars, Percy stressed the importance of financial literacy, urging students to be savvy with their money and to consider early investments. His insights provided students with the tools needed to secure their financial future.

Lastly, Gaby Motshidisi, the (She)EO and founder of Shewood Luxury Furniture, shared her unconventional journey to entrepreneurship. Despite not being passionate about her initial studies in Supply Chain Management, Gaby persevered and eventually discovered her love for business. Starting as a furniture reseller, she grew her passion into a successful company. Gaby’s story underscored the importance of perseverance and the courage to pursue one’s true calling, even when the path is unclear.

“Witnessing the impact of our motivational seminar on our students was truly inspiring. The energy, passion, and drive exhibited by our students reaffirm the incredible potential within each of them. I am grateful for our guest speakers whose wisdom and insights have ignited a spark of motivation and empowerment in our students. I also commend the organizing team we did well organizing a truly empowering and enriching experience for all participants.  Remember, success is not a destination but a journey of continuous growth and learning. We do this again next year 2025, with a much bigger crowd” echoed Lerato Motloung, Student Faculty Advisor under CAD.

The event concluded with a lively networking session, allowing students to engage directly with the speakers, ask questions, and seek advice. This session provided a valuable opportunity for students to gain further insights and build connections that could support their academic and professional growth.

The Academic Advising Motivational Seminar served as a transformative experience designed to inspire students to adopt the habits of successful individuals. Through the diverse stories of the speakers, students learned that success is a journey shaped by persistence, adaptability, and passion. Equipped with these lessons, VUT students are now better prepared to navigate their academic paths and create their own unique stories of success.