SRC Deputy President Thomas Makoko takes to the stage at the CUT Welkom Campus 2026 Autumn Graduation, celebrating the successful completion of his Diploma in Information Technology and a journey defined by leadership and dedication, as he is congratulated by Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning.

As the Welkom Campus celebrates the 2026 Autumn Graduation, some graduates step onto the stage with more than academic achievements. They carry stories of leadership, service, and the responsibility of representing student voices throughout their journey.

Among them are members of the Student Representative Council (SRC), whose time at the institution reflects not only academic commitment but also a dedication to leading by example. This group includes SRC Deputy President Thomas Makoko, who completed a Diploma in Information Technology, SRC Academic Officer Kelebohile Tsomela graduating with a Bachelor of Education in Languages, Phiwokuhle Joyi, who served in Public Relations; and Zethu Madolo the Arts Culture and International Officer who holds a Diploma in Language Practice and Media Studies.

For these student leaders, their roles required more than participation. They demanded presence, accountability, and the courage to act in the best interests of others. Leading by example meant showing up consistently, making difficult decisions, and staying grounded in purpose. Balancing leadership responsibilities with academic demands called for discipline, resilience, and the ability to adapt to ever changing pressures, shaping them into graduates who leave not only with qualifications but with the character to lead beyond the institution.

Women leaders from left: Kelebohile Tsomela, Academic Officer, Phiwokuhle Joyi, Public Relations Officer, and Zethu Madolo, Arts, culture and international officer.

Reflecting on his experience, Thomas Makoko highlights the discipline required to succeed as both a student and a leader. Being in these dual roles, he explains, demands careful time management and constant prioritisation. Hard work, dedication, and a commitment to always keeping students at heart kept him grounded throughout his journey. He admits that academically he often had to choose between attending classes and fulfilling leadership responsibilities, which required a thoughtful and calculated approach. Despite these challenges, he successfully completed his first term in the SRC while still reaching the important milestone of graduation.

For Kelebohile Tsomela, leadership carried a deeper meaning rooted in sacrifice and collective responsibility. She explains that leadership often demands letting go of personal comfort in order to prioritise the needs of others. This required her to move beyond individual thinking and fully embrace a collective mindset.

She also reflects on the emotional weight that comes with representing fellow students. “There were moments when expectations felt overwhelming, especially when students looked to the SRC for guidance during difficult times,” she said. In those instances, she reminded herself that leadership is not about perfection but about being present, responsive, and accountable.

Despite the challenges, their leadership journeys have shaped them into individuals who understand responsibility beyond themselves. Their experiences have strengthened their ability to lead, to listen, and to act with intention in spaces that require both courage and empathy.

As they graduate, these leaders leave behind a legacy that extends beyond their qualifications. Their contribution to student life reflects a commitment to service and a willingness to stand for others. As the university moves into a new chapter, their journeys serve as a reminder that leadership is not only about holding a position, but about the impact one makes along the way.