Deaf Graduate Inspires Through Resilience and Inclusion
For Umlazi-born Ms Philile Shezi, graduating from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is far more than a personal milestone, it is a testament to resilience, representation and inclusive education.
A young Deaf teaching graduate, Shezi’s journey to this moment has been shaped by determination, faith and the unconditional support of her family and university community. Standing proudly on the brink of graduation, she carries not only her own dreams but the hopes of those who stood beside her every step of the way.
“This moment means so much to me because I have made it for my mother, my father and especially my siblings and family who supported me throughout this journey,” she reflects. While she honours the memory of her late mother, who passed away during her matric exams, she is deeply grateful to have her father present to witness her achievement, a moment that symbolises both loss and fulfilment.
Central to her success has been UKZN’s commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment.
Shezi credits the University’s Disability Support Unit, interpreters and note-takers for enabling her to fully participate in her studies.
“The support I received when I needed it most made all the difference,” she says, highlighting how access to the right resources allowed her to thrive academically.
Rather than viewing deafness as a limitation, Shezi has embraced it as a source of strength. Her journey has cultivated resilience, discipline and independence. These qualities have shaped both her studies and her aspirations as a future educator.
“Being Deaf has taught me patience and hard work,” she explains. “It has also made me more empathetic and understanding towards others, especially learners who may face their own challenges.”
This empathy lies at the heart of her teaching philosophy.
Shezi is determined to create inclusive classrooms where every learner feels seen, understood, supported and encouraged to succeed. Her goal is not only to educate but to inspire.
“I want learners to know that their challenges do not define their future,” she says. “No matter the obstacles, they can achieve their goals through hard work and self-belief.”
Beyond the classroom, Shezi hopes her journey will spark broader change. She speaks candidly about the barriers that Deaf students still face in accessing Higher Education and professional opportunities in South Africa. Her success, she believes, is proof of what is possible when those barriers are removed.
“This graduation is not only about me,” she says. “It shows what Deaf students are capable of achieving when they are given the opportunity and support.” She hopes her story will encourage institutions to continue building inclusive systems that empower students of all abilities.
Her message to other young people with disabilities is one of courage and self-belief: “Do not let your challenges define your future. Be proud of who you are. Your strength and your dreams matter.”
For Shezi, being Deaf is not something to overcome but something to embrace. “It is a gift from God,” she says with conviction.
As she steps into the next chapter of her journey, Shezi’s story is a reminder that with the right support, inclusive environments like those fostered at UKZN can turn dreams into reality and challenges into extraordinary achievements.
Words: Lorna Charles-Wright
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
