A dedicated Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Information Management student at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Nomzamo Mashiyane (23) has selflessly devoted herself to empowering the youth of Mandeni, a rural area on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal through her organisation called Izithelo Ezinhle Youth.

Izithelo Ezinhle Youth Organisation, founded in 2021, is a non-profit organisation driven by the vision of empowering Mandeni’s young people to thrive. With the motto “A Fruitful Tomorrow for All!”, the organisation tackles pressing social issues and environmental challenges, while nurturing personal and academic growth, to create a brighter future for the community.

The organisation aims to equip young people with skills and confidence for academic and personal growth. They provide academic support to high school learners, including assistance with online tertiary education applications and funding opportunities. Their objectives are to build strong, innovative leaders with high emotional intelligence, to create a safe space for young people to voice concerns and to raise awareness about critical societal issues, such as mental health and substance abuse.

“The inspiration behind Izithelo Ezinhle Youth Organisation came from my personal struggles growing up, particularly the lack of guidance on academics and higher education. I wanted to make a difference for others facing similar challenges. With the guidance I got from my lectures Dr L Bingwa, late Miss Nomfundo Mbatha and support from Mr Zakhe Khuzwayo and my team members Njabulo Mlambo and Nhlakanipho Mabuyakhulu, the organisation has evolved and made a positive impact,” said Mashiyane.

She proudly stated that two of her team members are a testament to the organisation’s success. According to her, she had mentored and supported them during their school years, and now they are in their final year at DUT, actively contributing to the organisation and assisting other youth.

She mentioned that she had received several awards and recognitions for her efforts. According to her, she had received the Institutional Award in the category of Research and Innovation and Engagement, specifically the Engagement and Outreach Award. She also mentioned that she had been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for her work on the Engineering Practice Innovation Project (EPIP), which had been recognised by the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.

 Mashiyane, explained that Izithelo Ezinhle Youth Organisation will focus on three strategic areas in 2025. Firstly, they plan to strengthen community engagement through events and workshops. Secondly, they aim to build partnerships with sponsors, businesses, and educational institutions to secure funding and resources. Lastly, they intend to enhance and expand their tuition programme called “Izithelo Ezinhle Tuition” to support more students, particularly in rural schools.

Mashiyane also explained the overall aim of Izithelo Ezinhle’s 2025 plan was to expand its reach and impact by supporting more schools, particularly those in rural areas. “This year, we are focusing on visiting schools in the uMkhanyakude District to provide academic guidance and resources. We aim to secure sponsorships, address critical issues like mental health and substance abuse, and create a supportive environment for learners. With faith and determination, we are confident we will make a difference in the lives of young people in our community, she added.

They are planning to continue collaborating with the Men Carve to expand their reach and visibility. They also aim to partner with DUT’s Student Recruitment Office to enhance their school visit programme and provide guidance to rural high school learners.

The organisation has been working closely with the Men Carve since 2022, partnering on all our school visit programme and workshops. The Men Carve remains a continuous and valued partner in our efforts.

“I am extremely excited to pursue my Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Information Management at DUT,” Mashiyane added. She also expressed her excitement, revealing that she expects to graduate for her Advance Diploma in Business and Information Management in the Autumn graduation ceremony of 2025.

Pictured: The team members of Izithelo Ezinhle Youth Organisation with the founder, Ms Nomzamo Mashiyane.

Phiwayinkosi Sibiya