Nokuthula Dlamini, a recent graduate from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, touched many people when she revealed that she celebrated her graduation without stressing over a new dress.
On May 6, she obtained her Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Sociology from this renowned university, and she was visibly emotional as she shared a warm hug with her mother, Lindiwe Dlamini.
The Pietermaritzburg native is an only child, and her financial issues complicated her academic journey. However, she received support from her lecturer, roommate, and supervisor.
NOKUTHULA: ‘I DID NOT WANT TO TROUBLE MY MOTHER’
In an interview with UKZN, Nokuthula shared that, due to her disadvantaged background, she decided not to “trouble” her mother for a new dress for her graduation.
Nokuthula’s mother makes ends meet through her informal trading hustle.
“I did not want to trouble my mother because I knew the dire situation at home, so I decided to go with the clothes I had,” she began.
“What was important for me was just to be present at graduation because I thought this might be the last one for me,” she added.
NOKUTHULA FLOODED WITH SUPPORT FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
The 24-year-old wore a plain black dress and styled her natural hair in simple piggy tails, which raised concerns among many on social media.
Hair stylists, chefs, fashion designers, photographers, and the general public have offered to organise a decked-out graduation celebration for her.
Nokuthula had this to say about the outpouring of love and support from social media.
“I am so grateful to everyone who has reached out. I wish I could shout to the world to thank each and every one of them,” she said.
She added, “I feel God has answered all my prayers and worries. Thank you to everyone.”
She motivated students facing similar situations to dedicate themselves to their studies, regardless of how difficult the journey may be, and to see their studies through to the end.
“Don’t give up, go out and finish what you started,” she said.
