Durban University of Technology (DUT) officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, comprising five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are underpinned by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT Communications team member, Phiwayinkosi Sibiya recently engaged in a conversation with Nozipho Mnyandu, Administrative Assistant intern at the DUT Centre for Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CSERI), to delve into the Living Values Framework and ENVISION2030.

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am an Administrative Assistant intern at the DUT Centre For Social Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator.”

Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family? 

A:  “I have been part of the DUT family since 2022 as a student, and for the past 10 months, I have been serving as an intern.”

Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why? 

A: “I deeply resonate with respect, because I was raised with respect and I believe respect can take you far in life and shapes you into becoming a better person. I also connect with the principle of commitment because without it your goals remain just as dreams. I am an individual who believes in excellence and everything that I am involved in has to reflect my performance. Being exposed to DUT Living Values has inspired me to make positive impact.”

Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?

A: “I like the tagline because it captures what DUT stands for. As someone who started here as a student and is now part of the staff, I have seen how DUT encourages creativity, supports both students and staff in being distinctive and focuses on making an impact, both personally and professionally.” 

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living ValuesFramework

A: “I plan to stay connected to the Living Values Framework by applying the values in my day-to-day work and interactions. I will make time to participate in any DUT events or activities that promote the values, so I can keep learning and growing.”

Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you? 

A: “Most people don’t know that I can sing. I sing as an alto at church, and it’s something that really brings me happiness and peace.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?

A: “I believe the Living Values Framework will help to create a more productive and professional environment at DUT. When everyone truthfully lives by these values, it will build stronger relationships for both staff and students, build growth, and help us all work better together.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: “I enjoy staying indoors, cooking, and catching up on some reality TV shows. When my pocket allows, I like going out to restaurants and trying new food.”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact at DUT?

A: “I plan to make a positive impact at DUT by staying helpful, approachable, and committed to my work. As a front desk admin assistant, I meet different people almost every day, and I want to continue to treat them with respect, fairness and assist them wherever I can. I believe small acts of kindness and a positive attitude can go a long way in creating a better space for everyone.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “I’m motivated by the desire to become a better person. I’m not naturally confident with public speaking, but my role sometimes requires it sometimes, so each day is a chance for me to learn, grow, and improve. I’m also motivated by the desire to make my family proud.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “I’m currently enrolled for my Advanced Diploma in Business and Information at DUT. My goal is to further my studies, and after obtaining my Master’s Degree, I look forward to becoming a lecturer. I also plan to continue studying until the day I’m being addressed as Dr NN Mnyandu.”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?

A: “To live a successful life, where I am a good example to the young generation and known for making a positive impact.”