For Lungelo Mbambo, who was raised in a traditional Zulu household in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, wearing something that represented his roots at his graduation was essential.
“A traditional item on my big day wasn’t even a second thought. It is how we celebrate major milestones. It speaks to the value I place on my identity as a Zulu man and my desire to represent that heritage on one of the most significant days of my life,” said the 22-year-old.
Lungelo studied towards a BCom in Economics and Econometrics. Lungelo gave back to students and shared his knowledge as a senior/strategic tutor for Economics 1A.
“My time at UJ will always be a core memory. It’s where I built lifelong friendships and grew in ways I never thought possible. One of the greatest benefits of this environment is that you don’t just become highly qualified in your field; you also gain vital social and networking skills that are essential in the real world.”
He added that choosing to study Economics was a “no-brainer” for him.
“I have loved this subject since primary school. Although I originally planned to study at a different institution, I truly believe I was destined to be at UJ given the trajectory my life has taken.”
A word of advice to first-year students: “I encourage them to communicate with their peers. Someone else might have a deeper understanding or a different perspective that can enhance your learning. Having a strong support system of friends, family, and classmates was my saving grace, especially in those “emergency” group chats the night before a test when everything finally starts making sense!”
Lungelo is working toward completing his BCom Honours in Economic Analysis of Financial Markets and following that, he plans to complete the CFA board exams, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Portfolio or Investment Manager.
“Through my studies, I’ve learned that we rarely get things 100% right on the first try. The goal should always be to do your best and use every resource at your disposal, but also to give yourself grace in times when your best feels like it wasn’t enough. My motto is to pick yourself up eight times, even if you fall seven.”
Lungelo can personally attest to this; after experiencing failure at university, he pulled up his socks, became an Economics tutor, and eventually rose to Senior/Strategic Tutor. “Since then, I’ve graduated, secured a role at one of the top investment companies in the country, and been accepted for postgraduate studies. Trust the process!”
This year, the University’s 2026 graduation series marks the institution’s 21st anniversary. Over 13,000 graduates will cross the stage this season, joined by global and national leaders recognised for their transformative leadership and impactful contributions to society.
