Riashnie Thaver (25) from Bluff, Durban has strived for academic excellence from the first day she enrolled at the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Her consistent hard work over the last three years had finally paid off as she graduated Cum Laude for her Diploma in Consumer Sciences: Food and Nutrition at the DUT 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremony, which will be held at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre on Tuesday, 21 May 2024.

Thaver who was amongst the top achievers in the Faculty of Applied Sciences aims to use the knowledge gained at DUT to make a positive impact in the society.

“I am looking forward to working in communities and developing products and recipes with local ingredients. I would like to leave my mark in a positive manner and encourage others to live healthier,” said Thaver.

She enrolled at DUT in 2021, with a desire to grow her knowledge in food and science. Thaver revealed that she had always been passionate about food and always had a thirst to learn more. She enjoys being creative with food innovations and recipe development.

Speaking about her journey at DUT, Thaver said: “My journey with DUT has been an enriching experience. The practical experience was the most enjoyable, especially the community outreach programme that was joined in conjunction with RCL Foods. Walking into a university a little older than my counterparts, I felt as if I was behind. However, I realised that you are never too old to learn something new. All that matters is your attitude and ability to persevere in the face of adversity.”

She was excited to be the first woman in her family to attend and graduate at university. She feels this was an absolute honour not just for her but for all the women before her who had made so much sacrifices for her to attend university.

Throughout her studies, Thaver fought slipping into a routine and becoming comfortable with being stagnant. She ensured that she found new activities to engage with and involved herself in extra-curricular activities that broadened her knowledge in various areas, allowing her to develop holistically.

The highlight of her study journey included being announced as the winner of departmental awards for three years consecutively, finalist for the Abe Bailey Trust Travel Bursary 2023 and being selected as the Chairperson of the UNICEF-DUT Volunteers Club 2024.
She is currently enrolled for her Advanced Diploma in Consumer Sciences: Food and Nutrition at DUT.
Amongst the DUT Living Values, Thaver associates with honesty and integrity as she feels students need to be honest with themselves and acknowledge their shortfalls to improve. She believed integrity was doing the right thing, even when nobody was watching.

In addition, Thaver extended her sincere gratitude to her family for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey. She also acknowledged her lecturers at the Department of Food and Nutrition for their constant support and guidance over her journey.

Pictured: Riashnie Thaver who was honoured for her academic excellence.

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Simangele Zuma