“VUT’s Residence Living and Learning hosted its Annual Women’s Gala Dinner, celebrating women’s achievements with drama, poetry, and inspiring talks.”
18 August 2025 | Story By: Tshepang Mothibedi | Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope
3 minutes read time.
On 15 August 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Residence Living and Learning Department proudly hosted its Annual Women’s Gala Dinner at the VUT Conference Centre. The event was a celebration of the achievements and contributions of women within the university community, offering an evening of recognition, networking, and empowerment.
Ms Ceejay Audrey, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, skilfully guided the programme and warmly introduced Ms Dina Mguni, Social Worker at the Student Council, to deliver the opening remarks and welcome the guests. This was followed by Ms Palesa Kgosinkwe, who outlined the purpose of the event and underscored its importance in empowering and celebrating women at VUT.
Delivering the keynote address, Ms Ndumi Lufefe, Director of Stakeholder Engagement at VUT, inspired and motivated the young women present. She emphasised the value of education in shaping personal and professional development, encouraging attendees to attain a diploma or degree. “Own your voice as a woman and stand your ground,” she urged. Ms Lufefe further highlighted the importance of building collaborative networks, learning from mentors, and connecting education to purpose. She closed with a powerful message: “As young women, you have the power to create the future you want.”
The evening featured an array of artistic and motivational contributions. Mr Mthobisi, widely known by his stage name Umnikazi Wepeni, captivated the audience with a stirring poem. Guest speaker Ms Puleng Khumalo, a VUT alumna and construction manager, shared her remarkable academic and professional journey, from studying civil engineering at VUT to obtaining degrees locally and internationally. Speaking candidly about the challenges she faced balancing social, academic, and personal responsibilities, she stressed the importance of gratitude and perseverance. “You need to know where you come from so that you do not take the opportunities you are given for granted,” she said. Ms Khumalo credited VUT for equipping her with problem-solving skills and practical learning that prepared her for real-life challenges.
The VUT Drama Arts Department delivered a powerful role play exploring gender-based violence and the resilience of friendships that endure through hardship. Their performance shed light on the complex realities of violence faced by young women and the strength found in solidarity.
Mx Thapelo Kgakatsi, Project Administrator and motivational speaker, challenged the audience to embrace authenticity and leadership. “Who are you as a woman?” they asked, urging women to lead confidently in all spheres of life. Their message was one of resilience and self-belief: “Be authentic to yourself despite any obstacles. Be the kind of woman who sets an example, just like the women of 1956.”
Musical interludes added to the evening’s richness, including a soulful performance by Ms Mandy Logan. The final speaker, Ms Miracle Mokgalapa, Green Campus Ambassador, peer educator, and student mentor, shared her journey of personal growth and advocacy. She spoke passionately about the Green Campus initiative, mentoring opportunities, and the transformative impact of leadership. Her message was clear: “Leaders are made by showing up, speaking up, and standing up.”
The evening concluded with a pledge delivered by a young man from Educity Residence, affirming the commitment of men to supporting women. This was followed by a moving Sesotho poem by Ms Mphakiseng Imagine Motabele, celebrating women’s strength and resilience. The event closed with gratitude from Mr Musa Shinagange, Housing and Catering Officer, who thanked all guests for their participation in an evening dedicated to honouring women.