by Mpho Manyuha and Nhlawulo Vision Chauke
Rooted in a proud legacy and growing stronger through connection, alumni of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) returned to the Mbombela Campus at the end of August 2025, to inspire and guide the next generation of undergrads and postgraduate students.
The second Alumni Connect event, “Rooted in Legacy, Growing Through Connection,” was a celebration of mentorship, knowledge-sharing and the enduring bond between alumni and students.
The engagement, organised by the Directorate of Extracurricular Development, Alumni Relations and Corporate Affairs and Marketing (CAM), together with the Directorate of Student Governance and Leadership Development, brought together final-year, advanced diploma, postgraduate diploma and postgraduate students, alongside accomplished alumni who have excelled in government, economic development, education, media and civil society.
Hosted at the Mbombela Campus Student Centre, the event was also streamed live on YouTube TUT Alumni Connect 20 Aug 2025 Mbombela Campus, ensuring broad access across the TUT community. The hybrid format gave students the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, access career guidance, and draw inspiration from alumni success stories with recordings available online for continued learning.
With a focus on postgraduate development, the programme featured panel discussions, career development talks, a mental health segment and the event highlight, “Turning Your Research into Influence”, designed to help students translate their academic work into real-world impact.
Bonginkosi Sithole, Senior Employment and Service Specialist at the Department of Labour, reminded students that qualifications alone are not enough to secure opportunities in today’s competitive job market. He emphasized the importance of preparation, confidence and demonstrating practical understanding when engaging with potential employers.
“Research the organisation and know the department you are applying to, its leadership and strategic goals. This shows seriousness and readiness,” he said.
He added: “Link your skills to the role. When asked “tell us about yourself,” don’t just list qualifications, connect your studies, skills and experiences directly to the job requirements.”
Sithole said candidates mustn’t aim to be selected but rather prepare to be the best fit and present themselves, structure their answers and demonstrate awareness of their sector to set themselves apart from other candidates.
Dr Lebogang Mathole, lecturer and researcher at TUT Mbombela reminded students that qualifications alone no longer set candidates apart - there are many people holding similar degrees. What matters is how you differentiate yourself, your discipline and the value you bring to an organisation.
“Know what makes you unique and be able to articulate it. Success comes from small daily actions, discipline and persistence. True leadership is about consistent impact, not titles and remember, if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” she said.
One of the most engaging sessions was the 1-minute idea pitch session, where students had the chance to present themselves directly to the panellists, competing for mentorship opportunities while reflecting on the areas they most wanted to grow in.
Through events like Alumni Connect, TUT continues to nurture a culture of excellence, producing well-rounded, socially conscious graduates who not only thrive in their own careers but also return to uplift and inspire future leaders.
From left: Nkoka Solly Legodi, Gaster Tshabalala, Venicia Tsatsewana Mishiyi, Shalate Davhana, Bonginkosi Sithole, S’dumo Masilela, Dr Lubisi, Dr Lebogang Mathole, Comfort Mazibuko, Dr Kenneth Netshiombo, Mpho Manyuha and Andrew Makhushe.
Students attending Alumni Connect at the Mbombela Campus.
TUT Mbombela Campus Choir