Nonkululeko Gugulethu Mchunu’s deep passion for art saw her enrolling again for her second qualification in 2023 at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).

And 13 years later after her first qualification, Mchunu will be graduating with her Advanced Diploma in Interior Design Cum Laude at the Olive Convention Centre, Durban on 28 May 2024.

“I have always loved the Arts and analysing interior and architectural spaces. I will continue working in the field and hopefully go into lecturing as well. I have been in the industry since 2011. Due to the passion I have for art, I have enrolled to study once again,’’ she said.

The 38-year-old, hailing from Pinetown, Durban obtained her first qualification, a Diploma in Interior Design in 2011. Expressing how excited she is to graduate Cum Laude, Mchunu said it serves as a testament to the saying that indeed hard work pays off.

She further confessed that she had worked so hard, and it was challenging as she had to juggle between work, family, and academics.

“I dedicated myself to my studies whilst working as an interior designer and studying at the same time. There were moments when my sanity was challenged and I wanted to pause my studies, but I remembered the end goal. I hope earning Cum Laude will open further opportunities within my career and my educational endeavours,’’ she said.

Mchunu is also a lecturer assistant and Interior Design freelancer. Appreciating her family, she said she would have not done it without their support. “My parents and sisters were extremely proud and have always been supportive in encouraging me to study further. So, this is their achievement as much as it is mine,” she added.

She also highlighted the DUT ENVISION2030 living values and principles she best associates herself with. “The values of honesty, professionalism, and commitment. These values are a constant reminder for me to consistently deliver high-quality work and uphold my ethics, whilst dedicating myself to continuous learning. Maintaining good interpersonal and working relationships, to achieve my goals,” she said.

In the future, Mchunu intends to obtain a PhD and continue to work in the arts field and hopefully go into lecturing as well. Her advice to first-year students is to continuously work hard. “Please prioritise hard work, cultivate a curious mind and pursue knowledge relentlessly,’’ she concluded.

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Pictured: Nonkululeko Mchunu

Vukani Langa