“A vibrant image shows VUT Mentors and SI Leaders in black and gold receiving certificates, celebrating unity, leadership growth and academic excellence on stage.”
18 November 2025 | Story: Sadiki Siphiwe Rulani | Photo: Keitumetse Mokgope
4 minutes read time.
On 14 November 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted the annual Mentors and Supplementary Instruction (SI) Leaders Awards Ceremony at the VUT Conference Centre. Guided with warmth and precision by MC Ms Tiny Mufamadi, the ceremony honoured the student leaders who dedicated their time, intellect and compassion to supporting academic success across the institution.
The programme opened with a moving performance by Creative Arts, joined by a talented singer from the Student Christian Organisation (SCO), Mr Prince Mofokeng, creating an atmosphere filled with hope, unity and celebration.
The reflections began with mentors sharing their journeys and the lessons that shaped their leadership throughout the year.
Ms Mpho Tease opened the session with a heartfelt reflection on the meaningful connections she formed with her mentees. She described mentorship as a life changing experience, noting that it is not merely about helping others, but about shaping lives and guiding students towards becoming their best selves.
Ms Christina Mukwevho followed with a thoughtful meditation on leadership, describing mentorship as a continuous journey rather than a destination. Every challenge, she said, brings an opportunity to grow. She reminded her peers that genuine change often begins “one conversation at a time.”
Ms Siyoliso Mtlomelo spoke with quiet pride about the trust her mentees placed in her. She shared how many students, having already received their marks, returned to tell her how well they performed because of her guidance. Their progress reminded her of the power of being present, patient and consistent.
Closing the first segment, Ms Tecia Chauke spoke honestly about the challenges of mentorship. She emphasised that the role is never about oneself, but about the students whose growth depends on genuine guidance and support. She expressed deep gratitude to Mr Mothusi Samosamo for his mentorship and encouraged next year’s leaders to take special care of first year students, describing them as the foundation of future academic achievement.
The second reflection session opened with a powerful poem by Umnikazi Wepeni, accompanied by a dramatic performance addressing the national fight against Gender Based Violence. The piece delivered a compelling message of awareness, healing and the urgent need for change.
Ms Jone Mogotse began the SI leaders’ reflections by expressing profound gratitude for the support she received throughout the year. She noted how that guidance shaped her into a confident and capable leader, and she thanked her fellow SI leaders for walking the journey with her.
Ms Alice Mohapi expanded on the symbolism of the day’s colours. She explained that black represented resilience, while gold symbolised light. She encouraged all SI leaders to carry these attributes with them and continue to “shine in gold.”
Ms Koketso Mamogopedi reflected on her four months in the programme, describing the experience as transformative. She highlighted the relationships she built, the skills she gained and the professional growth she achieved alongside her peers.
Closing the reflections, Mr Clinton Dube spoke of the privilege of working with colleagues who became close friends. He recalled moments of frustration but celebrated how unity, laughter and teamwork kept them moving forward. Collaboration, he said, is never a competition.
The keynote address by Mr Rakhomo Mokhoke delivered a powerful call to action. He congratulated the mentors and SI leaders for their commitment and impact, urging them never to stagnate. “If you stop growing, you start dying. If you stop running, your followers will start walking,” he said.
He reminded students that leadership stretches beyond personal gain and must serve the generations that will follow. Quoting Julius Malema, he asked:
“Do you want me to fold my hands and do nothing? What will history say about me?”
He challenged every leader in the room to consider the legacy they would leave at VUT.
Following the keynote, Creative Arts returned with a lively performance that re energised the audience. Afterwards, Faculty Advisors Ms Lerato Motloung, Ms Puleng Maetla, Mr Kwanele Shoba and Mr Emmanuel Mphelo presented certificates to mentors and SI leaders, honouring their service and dedication.
The ceremony concluded with the announcement of the Top Three Best Performers per Faculty for both Mentors and SI Leaders, celebrating those who demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment.
A celebration of leadership and legacy
The 2025 Mentors and SI Leaders Awards Ceremony embodied the essence of authentic leadership: service, collaboration, resilience and transformation. It illuminated the heart of VUT, where students lift one another, pursue academic excellence and cultivate the promise of a brighter future for themselves and the generations who will follow.