On Thursday, 4 April 2024, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy upon Nonkululeko Gobodo, an influential figure in South Africa’s business and accounting landscape.
“Dr Nonkululeko Gobodo, I love the sound of that!” exclaimed the newly bestowed Honorary Doctorate recipient, radiating joy to the brimming audience. This proclamation came mere moments after the University acknowledged her tireless efforts in shattering barriers.
“What a privilege. To the College of Business and Economics, and to the University of Johannesburg as a whole, I am moved by this recognition. When you dedicate yourself to your craft, tirelessly pushing boundaries, you never quite anticipate standing where I am today, receiving such a profound honour!” she said.
Gobodo shared that her guiding light, propelling her to work as diligently as she has, is her vision for life – a belief that as a Black woman in South Africa, there are no limits to what she can achieve.
“My initial goal was to become a chartered accountant. Little did I know, I would be the first Black female chartered accountant. Today, when I enter a room full of chartered accountants, especially Black women, I am always struck by the fact that I paved the way and demonstrated that it could be accomplished. I was among the pioneers in the field, and it was this vision I held for myself that propelled me forward.”
Gobodo seized the opportunity in her address to applaud the hundreds of UJ students who had crossed the stage of the University’s Sanlam Auditorium, receiving their well-deserved degrees. She encouraged them to harness their knowledge to make meaningful contributions towards addressing the myriad challenges confronting South Africa.
“As you set forth on your path, keep in mind that your success lies within your hands. Your UJ qualification is a gateway to endless possibilities. It is incumbent upon you to represent with pride and lead with distinction wherever life takes you. Our nation urgently requires ethical and capable leaders who can take decisive steps forward. As a youthful nation, there is ample room for progress, and each of you holds the potential to create a significant impact and shape the world,” she stressed.
Gobodo’s extraordinary trajectory, spanning from shattering barriers as the country’s inaugural black female Chartered Accountant to her pivotal leadership, embodies qualities of dedication, resilience, and excellence. Grounded in her academic accomplishments, her professional journey has been defined by a steadfast commitment to challenging conventions and advancing inclusivity within the realm of accounting.
Hailing from Mthatha, Eastern Cape, Gobodo, graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Transkei in 1984. Furthering her studies, she earned an Honours in Accounting Sciences from the University of South Africa, becoming a Chartered Accountant in 1987. Rising swiftly from a junior lecturer to Chief Financial Officer at the Transkei Development Corporation, she established her private practice in 1992. Despite apartheid challenges, her practice grew into Gobodo Incorporated, later merging with SizweNtsaluba to form SizweNtsalubaGobodo (SNG), South Africa’s largest black accounting firm. Under her leadership, SNG expanded its operations across Africa and advocated for transformation and gender equality in the accounting profession.
Professor Bettine Van Vuuren, the Registrar of UJ and Functionary Chancellor at the graduation ceremony, conveyed appreciation, saying, “UJ’s Honorary Doctoral degree is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributions beyond conventional norms. We bestowed upon Nonkululeko Gobodo an Honorary Doctorate, acknowledging her remarkable leadership and lasting influence on South Africa’s business landscape. Thank you for your contributions to the accounting profession and our country; we are deeply indebted to you,” concluded Prof van Vuuren.
