Ten Nursing Graduates Achieve Summa Cum Laude Honours

UKZN celebrated the exceptional achievement of 10 Bachelor of Nursing graduates who achieved summa cum laude honours.

The top-performing graduates were Ms Sinenhlanhla Chonco, Ms Tyler Gabriel, Ms Mayenziwe Mazamane, Ms Thembelihle Mbanjwa, Ms Mbalenhle Mbijana, Ms Babalwa Mbongo, Ms Asithandile Ndlela, Ms Phumelele Radebe, Mr Khethukuthula Shezi and Mr Lindani Simamane.

Mbongo expressed her gratitude, saying: ‘I feel delighted and thankful to have come this far despite the many challenges I faced. This is just the beginning – I’m looking forward to specialising in midwifery and contributing to research in maternal and neonatal care.’

Gabriel says her achievement came as a surprise. ‘There were times when I doubted myself, especially during difficult modules and personal health struggles. Being far from home and facing language and cultural barriers added to the challenge, but I kept reminding myself of my purpose and why I started this journey. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished.’

Mazamane said the achievement felt surreal. ‘I’ve always pushed myself to excel. My late grandmother inspired me to pursue Nursing, and now I want to bring my energy and knowledge to the field and inspire future nurses.

Shezi reflected on the achievement with humility: ‘It truly feels like a dream come true. I worked hard and stayed focused but it’s only by God’s grace that I made it.’

For Radebe, the journey was driven by a deep passion for community-based care. ‘Achieving summa cum laude honours was unexpected but so rewarding. I was motivated by a desire to provide evidence-based care and make a difference. I’m particularly excited about exploring travel nursing as a way to combine my love of helping others with the opportunity to see the world.’

The University commended the graduates for their academic excellence, resilience, and commitment to healthcare saying their success is a reflection of the quality of Nursing education at UKZN and the passion of students determined to make an impact in the lives of others.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini