As the University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrates its autumn graduation season, thousands of students will cross the stage, marking a defining moment for themselves and their families. Among them are first-generation graduates, aspiring legal minds, and close-knit friends who have supported each other through their academic journeys.

Proud parents and first-time graduates

For 22-year-old Akhona Sibango from Matatiele, Eastern Cape, graduation is more than a personal achievement—it is a milestone for her entire family. The first in her family to earn a university degree, Akhona was accompanied by her mother and brother as she stepped onto UJ’s Auckland Park Kingsway Campus stage to receive her BA Law degree.

“I am so happy I finally did it—the excitement is out of this world,” she said.

Her journey was not without challenges, but with financial aid from NSFAS and sheer determination, she persevered. Now, Akhona has her sights set on joining the job market before returning to complete her LLB.

Her brother, Xolani, beamed with pride as he held her gown and flowers. Their mother, Ntombifuthi, could hardly contain her joy: “She is the first in the family, and we are so thankful for this occasion.”

Law, passion, and possibilities

Forensic science is the dream for 23-year-old Chané Marais, who completed her Law degree at UJ. The moment was bittersweet as she reflected on the difficulties she faced along the way.

“It’s like a happy but sad goodbye,” she said. “Right now, I’m working in events, but I plan to focus on Law in the future.”

Her father, Joos, was particularly proud, having encouraged her to study Law. “There are so many opportunities in this field. I got suited up for our first graduate in the family, and we are blessed,” he said.

Raeesa’s journey

Raeesa Ebrahim made a statement at her graduation, proudly wearing the Palestinian flag as part of her regalia. Currently working as a fiduciary intern, she plans to become a wills drafter and estates administrator while pursuing her LLM in International Law.

“I chose Law because of the state of the world—politics, war, and human rights atrocities. I want to be a changemaker,” she said.

Her symbolic sash was a tribute to Palestinian academics whose lives and records have been erased. “This represents their validity and honours South Africa’s stance in taking Israel to the ICJ.”

Friends in the faculty

For Uyazi Mathumbu, Nomzamo Gumpo, and Christopher Mathibela, graduation was a shared victory. The trio, who studied Law together, cheered each other on as they reached this pivotal moment.

Uyazi, 23, now holds an LLB and is eager to enter the legal profession, possibly as a compliance officer. “Law was the one course that really interested me, and it worked for me,” he said.

Christopher, 22, had once debated between Teaching and Law but has no regrets about his decision. “Choosing Law was the best choice I ever made. I’m looking forward to my LLM and a career in academia.”

Nomzamo, 25, completed her BCom Law before earning her LLB and is now pursuing her Master’s in Law. “Academia is a path I’m considering, but I also have a passion for practice. Right now, I’m keeping my options open.”

A season of celebration

This season, more than 13,000 graduates will walk the UJ stage, joined by eight global trailblazers honoured for their contributions to society, sustainability, and innovation. The UJ Auditorium will continue to echo with ululations, joy, and the promise of bright futures ahead.