GRADUATE EARNS FOUR QUALIFICATIONS WHILE WORKING SIDE HUSTLES

From being a petrol attendant to selling as a street vendor, four-time WSU graduate, Yandisa Mazingisa did everything he could to sustain himself while he pursued his tertiary education at the institution.  

The 29-year-old graduated with a Master of Commerce degree at WSU’s Mthatha Campus on 5 May; an addition to his already impressive academic track which includes a diploma and advanced diploma in management, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce Honours Degree.

Despite the demands of an exacting academic journey, Mazingisa had to make ends meet by taking on various odd jobs.

Having learnt the art of balancing his academics and employment, he held positions which include petrol attendant, a team coordinator for an apple producer, and starting his own fast food business in his village.  

“There were times when I’d return from work and go straight to the exam room in my uniform. I feel truly blessed to have obtained my Master of Commerce degree. This achievement gives me hope, not only for my future but also for my grandmother, who has always trusted and believed in me. This moment brings renewed strength and hope for us both,” said Mazingisa.

Raised by his grandmother, Setyenzwa Mngxanyelwa (73), in Gwabeni Location, Flagstaff, Mazingisa matriculated from Vulindlela Senior Secondary School in 2015, during a time when he was silently battling a personal illness.

After an involuntary gap year, he enrolled for a Diploma in Management at WSU, a leap which catapulted his academic career, and propelled him towards a path that would see him not only realise his dreams but stand as a beacon of hope for his family.

Four qualifications since his academic journey began with WSU, Mazingisa epitomises the power of perseverance.

“Through it all, I’ve learned that no dream is too far if you stay committed. I balanced work, studies, illness, and responsibilities, believing in my potential even when resources were scarce. I am living proof that with faith, focus, and hard work, anything is possible,” he said.

For his masters, Mazingisa wrote a dissertation titled: Reskilling farmers on digital agriculture for agricultural entrepreneurship skills in Alfred Nzo Municipality, Eastern Cape, in which he was supervised by Dr Medicine Magocha.

By Yanga Ziwele