“Advanced Diploma in Logistics student, Elizabeth Mboweni, represents the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) on the prestigious Abe Bailey Bursary tour to the United Kingdom, where she will explore global leadership, culture, and responsible citizenship.”
03 November 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani | Photo: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
From the heart of Soweto to the halls of international academia, Ms Elizabeth Mboweni’s story is one of courage, curiosity, and unyielding determination. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by how the world works to a soon to be global ambassador for the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) captures the essence of South Africa’s next generation of leaders, bold, resilient, and ready to take on the world.
“Being from Soweto has made me who I am today,” she reflects. “I’ve learned to be independent, think for myself, and keep going even when things are difficult.”
Now an Advanced Diploma student in Logistics at VUT, Ms Mboweni is preparing for one of the greatest milestones of her academic journey, a three-week leadership and cultural exchange as part of the Abe Bailey Bursary Tour to the United Kingdom. This prestigious programme brings together outstanding young South Africans to explore issues of leadership, citizenship, and global responsibility through travel, dialogue, and discovery.
During her time abroad, Ms Mboweni will join fellow delegates in engaging discussions on world affairs, meet leaders such as the Mayor of Camden, and visit iconic institutions including the House of Lords and the University of Cambridge. Each stop will expose her to new perspectives on democracy, governance, and the role of youth in shaping a more connected and compassionate world.
For Ms Mboweni, logistics is more than a career path; it is a metaphor for life. “I enjoy seeing what happens behind the scenes and understanding how everything fits together. I love planning, solving problems, and finding better ways to do things, and logistics is the perfect field for that,” she explains.
Her choice to study at VUT was both intentional and inspired. “I chose VUT because it is a university of technology that prepares students for the real world. It focuses on learning and practical skills while keeping up with trends and technology in logistics. The lecturers are knowledgeable and have given me the foundation I need to succeed.”
The upcoming UK tour is not only a recognition of Ms Mboweni’s academic excellence but also of her leadership potential and sense of purpose. “I’m always looking to experience new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and see life from another perspective,” she says with a smile. “This opportunity allows me to learn, grow, and bring back knowledge that can make a difference at home.”
Proud of her achievement, Ms Delisile Mabuza, Officer: Registration and Student Mobility in the VUT Internationalisation Department, commended Ms Mboweni’s selection. “We are extremely proud of Ms Mboweni for representing VUT on such a prestigious platform. The Abe Bailey Bursary aligns perfectly with our goal of nurturing globally minded graduates who can engage meaningfully in international spaces. Opportunities like this broaden our students’ worldviews and strengthen their capacity to contribute innovatively to South Africa’s growth upon their return.”
As she readies herself to board that flight to London, Ms Mboweni stands as a reminder that the spirit of Soweto and of VUT reaches far beyond borders. Her story is proof that when ambition meets opportunity, the journey from local to global begins not with privilege, but with purpose.