University of KwaZulu-Natal graduate pays tribute to late mother
Mntungwa wishes to continue to honour his mother by completing his honours studies, and is requesting financial support.
Many were left heartbroken when UKZN student Thembisani Mntungwa held up a T-shirt with his late mother’s face during his Bachelor of Social Science in Criminology and Forensic Studies graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 6 May.
The young man paid tribute to his mother, saying that she had passed away months ago. Mntungwa described his mother as his greatest inspiration and the reason he reached this stage in life.
Reflecting on his mother Nondumiso Mntungwa’s death in March, he said it has left a huge void in his life.
Also read: UKZN celebrates high-achieving class at autumn graduations
“I wish she could embrace this moment with me. We had imagined it and spoken about how we would celebrate. This was as much my moment as it was hers. She wasn’t just my mum, she was my friend and my biggest supporter,” said Mntungwa.
Recounting his grief, Mntungwa also revealed some of the reasons he respected and loved his mother so much.
“She worked as a domestic worker and, at times, as a street vendor to make sure there was always food on the table at home and that we had lunch money for school. This was the deepest and most encouraging way she showed her support,” he continued.
Mntungwa also revealed the depth of the relationship between him and his mother and the seemingly small things that made a difference in his life as a student who did not live at home.
Also read: UKZN in-person graduation ceremonies make a comeback
“During the course of my degree she’d always call to check on me and ask about my marks. Those were the little things that mattered and at difficult moments when I wanted to give up, I would remember that I had someone at home who believed in me and took great pride in seeing me achieve this milestone of becoming a graduate,” he continued.
Mntungwa grew up in Malukazi, but currently lives in Mbilo. He is still studying at UKZN, doing an honours degree. He is also asking for financial assistance to help him pay for tuition and living expenses.
For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
