The Bhokoloshe family stands tall in support of the son and brother, who never disappointed them in pursuit of a better life to uplift his family situation. From left: Masimbonge Bhokoloshe, brother, Yathi Bhokoloshe (graduate) and mother Ms Noncedikhaya Cornelia Bhokoloshe. Yathi made history for the Bhokokoloshe family by becoming the first graduate.

The 7th graduation session at the Central University of Technology (CUT) was a day of celebration, but for Bhokoloshe Yathi, it marked a historic milestone for his entire family.

Born and raised in Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape, Yathi grew up in a family of five brothers, raised by a single mother after losing his father, the only breadwinner, at the age of four. His mother, determined to provide for her children, started a small business selling table charm and vegetables to ensure that her kids don’t go to bed and school hungry.

From a young age, Yathi and his brothers helped their mother with the business, selling goods so they could afford school fees, uniforms, and books. “School was not always easy in the village, we struggled to get qualified teachers, better schools were far and expensive, making access impossible. But despite these struggles, I remained positive and determined to one day turn my family situation around,” he shared.

Determined to honour his mother’s sacrifices, Yathi excelled in high school. When he reached high school, his mother pushed even harder to send him to a better school in town, where he could receive quality education.

During his matric in 2019, as he always dreamed of studying Design and Studio Art, he applied to universities in Gauteng, unaware that his future lay elsewhere. Then, during a trip to check on his applications, he saw a billboard for the Central University of Technology next to the road. It was a moment of revelation. “I had never thought of studying in Bloemfontein, but when I saw that billboard, something in me said, ‘apply here,’” he recalled.

“Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, putting everything on hold. I was stuck at home with no clear way forward. I was constantly worried about my future. But one day, while working on a farm in the village, I received a call from CUT, inviting me for an interview based on my art portfolio. I was literally in the fields when I got that call, and I had to do that interview from there,” he said.

Despite the unusual setting, Yathi’s passion and talent impressed the panel, and he was accepted into the programme.  “That was the beginning of my real struggles. I did not have funding, no accommodation and no allowance. I had to return home while awaiting financial aid.”

His mother encouraged him to keep pushing, and when he finally made it to Bloemfontein, he had nowhere to stay. After knocking on many doors, a kind landlord allowed him to stay without paying rent until he found his balance.

From February to July of his first year, he had no funding. His mother and brothers sent him whatever little they could to survive. Yet, despite everything, he never lost focus or hope. “I always reminded myself why I was here. My family also reminded me not to let the city life consume me. They always reminded me about family values and principles, about praying, respecting others and working hard, and I did.”

On graduation day, standing beside his mother, the woman who never stopped believing in him, Yathi said that he was overwhelmed with gratitude. He was not just receiving a Diploma; he was making history for his family.

His story is more than an academic achievement; it is a testament of resilience, sacrifice, and the power of a dream. From a small village in the Eastern Cape to becoming his family’s first graduate, Yathi’s journey proves that no obstacle is too great when met with determination, faith, and a relentless spirit.