Theron Dann-Nel proudly crosses the stage at CUT’s 2026 Spring Graduation, celebrating a remarkable achievement shaped by resilience, determination and perseverance while living with ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome. He is congratulated by Prof. Samson Mashele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement

Meet Theron Dann-Nel, a young man who refused to let a diagnosis, or the doubts of others, write the final chapter of his story. Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Asperger’s Syndrome, Theron was once told he would never make it to university. Years later, he crossed the stage at CUT’s 2026 Spring Graduation to receive his Diploma in Computer Networking, a powerful reminder that disability may shape the journey, but it does not define the destination.

For Theron, graduation was more than the end of a degree, it was deeply personal. It was the culmination of a journey marked by courage, resilience and an unwavering determination to prove himself to those who thought less of him. Living with ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome, he faced challenges throughout university, from adjusting to a new environment to navigating academic and financial pressures. There were moments when he questioned whether he would make it to the finish line. But he kept going.

That determination was forged long before he set foot on a university campus. As a young learner, a teacher once told his parents that he would never matriculate, attend university or graduate. Instead of allowing those words to become his reality, Theron used them as motivation to turn his future around.

With tears of joy in his eyes and a proud smile on his face, he reflected on what his diploma truly represents. “This diploma is far more than an academic achievement; it is a testament to every obstacle I overcame, every setback I pushed through, and every moment I chose to keep going. Above all, it represents the unwavering support of the people who believed in me when the journey was at its hardest,” he said.

“This experience has taught me never to allow other people’s opinions to determine what I can achieve. Words are powerful. If you accept negative labels, they can limit you; but if you believe in yourself, you can accomplish far more than people expect.

This day is deeply emotional for me because it represents years of hard work, perseverance and refusing to give up. It is proof that every person who said I couldn’t do it was wrong. Instead of allowing their criticism to hold me back, I used it as fuel to keep going.”

Theron said CUT became far more than a university during his journey; it became his second home. “CUT became my second home, a place where I found a community that understood me, believed in my potential, and encouraged, supported and celebrated me every step of the way. Initially, I wanted to study at another university because that was where most of my friends were going. Unfortunately, I wasn’t accepted. Looking back, I’m grateful that I wasn’t, because I wouldn’t be where I am today. Coming to CUT turned out to be one of the best things that could have happened to me.”

He credits CUT’s Disability Unit with playing a pivotal role throughout his academic journey. During some of his most challenging moments, the unit provided the support, guidance and reassurance he needed to keep moving forward. “The Disability Unit became much more than an administrative support service; it became my safe haven. Whenever I experienced anxiety or felt overwhelmed, there was always someone willing to help. From my first year through to my final semester, they supported me with tutors, academic assistance and, most importantly, the emotional encouragement I needed to persevere,” he says.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect concentration, attention and impulse control. Asperger's syndrome, which falls within the autism spectrum, can affect social interaction, communication and the interpretation of social cues. While both conditions present unique challenges, the right support systems and learning environment can help individuals thrive and achieve extraordinary success.