The University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrated a powerful intersection of sport and scholarship during its 2026 Autumn graduation season. On Tuesday, 3 March 2026, former SPAR Proteas captain and current UJ Netball Head Coach, Bongiwe Msomi, led by example once again – this time trading her whistle for a cap and gown as she walked across the stage to receive her Advanced Diploma in Business Management.
A masterclass in mentorship
Msomi is a titan of South African netball. In a poetic display of leadership, she shared the stage with her Senior Women’s Netball Team captain, Cornelia Mupenda, who earned the same qualification with distinction.
“Growth should never stop – on or off the court,” Msomi remarked. “This qualification strengthens my ability to serve, lead, and build sustainable structures within sport.”
Triumph across disciplines
The spirit of the “student-athlete” was further embodied by former UJ Senior Men’s Rugby Team captain, Siyemukela “Sasko” Ndlovu, who received his Diploma in Small Business Management. Ndlovu highlighted the grit required to balance elite sport with academic rigor, crediting the university’s support and his faith for his success.
“It’s a great moment! I’m very proud of myself for never giving up, it wasn’t an easy journey. It’s not an easy task being a student-athlete because we have to manage our time well to focus on academics and sport. Everything is starting to make sense now. For now, I’m focusing on rugby and see how far that takes me. All glory to God and thanks to UJ for the support and the opportunity to study and play sport. We shouldn’t take it for granted that we’re on scholarship funding. It was tough but we have managed to conquer!” says Siyemukela “Sasko” Ndlovu.
Graduation by the numbers: Autumn 2026
These three UJ sports personalities join a total of 13 125 graduands walking across the stage to receive their qualifications this season. According to the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, each crossing represents “years of perseverance, intellectual growth and determination, transforming UJ’s campuses into vibrant spaces of celebration and achievement.”
As Msomi continues to steer UJ Netball, she does so with a sharpened business acumen, proving that for South Africa’s sporting legends, the pursuit of excellence is a lifelong game.
Netball player Mupenda said, “Graduating with distinction in my Advanced Diploma in Business Management as a student-athlete is a blessing – I don’t take lightly. I thank God for the strength, discipline, and grace that carried me through early trainings, long study nights, and every challenging moment.”
Mupenda explained her graduation experience with her coach, Msomi, as a meaningful moment. “She has led by example and inspired greatness in every area of life. Sharing that stage symbolised mentorship, growth, and strong leadership.
