When the academic procession marches into the graduation hall at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), all eyes naturally fall on Ntokozo Mthethwa (23), who leads the vanguard.

Dignified, precise, and carrying the weight of both the university’s ceremonial mace and its institutional authority, she is the visual anchor of UMP’s highest traditions.

Mthethwa is a final-year Bachelor of Arts student who is wrapping up an extraordinary three-year tenure as the university’s trusted mace bearer.

She was appointed in her first year in 2024 after a rigorous selection process by the vice chancellor and the dean of students. Her flawless execution earned her a rare three-year appointment, and this year marks her final term in the role.

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“Standing on that stage, I get a front-row view of the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication from my peers. The role requires immense physical discipline, precise timing, and deep respect for the solemnity of the ceremony,” she said.

Mthethwa is originally from KZN and relocated to Mpumalanga to pursue her tertiary education.

Beyond UMP’s gates, her heart belongs to community upliftment. From the airwaves of Ligwalagwala FM, where she speaks passionately about women’s empowerment and redefining beauty standards, to grassroots charity work across the province, she is determined to leave a lasting legacy.

She regularly donates clothes to those in need, supports disadvantaged children, and conducts workshops advocating against gender-based violence.

Mthethwa is also involved in pageantry and balances the solemnity of protocol with the glamour of leadership. She was crowned Miss UMP Mbombela Campus Queen for 2024/25.

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“These platforms allow me to manage public relations, conduct media interviews, and lead major academic processions alongside the chancellor, vice chancellor and university executives. I am also deeply involved in the university’s cultural life, such as Africa Day celebrations, where I draw on my background as a ‘Double Gold’ achiever in dramatic arts and my media experience,” she said.

Mthethwa said having roots in both Mpumalanga and KZN has broadened her perspective as a Bachelor of Arts student and equal rights advocate, allowing her to adapt fluidly to different environments.