Ms Nomthandazo Hlophe received her award and certificate from Prof Ndivhuwo Tshipala.
During the event, the spotlight was shone on the Dean’s Awards to Ms NH Hlophe - for the Best Diploma Student at the Faculty for the Diploma in Operations Management; Ms EN Malebane - for the Best Advanced Diploma Student in the Faculty for the Advanced Diploma in Operations Management; and CJ Beaurain - for the Best Postgraduate Diploma Student in the Faculty for the Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Management.
Welcoming students, parents, guardians, friends and academic staff on behalf of Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Executive Dean of the Faculty, Prof Ndivhuwo Tshipala, Assistant Dean, said the Faculty acknowledges the parents and guardians’ support as well as the facilitators/lecturers’ dedication to seeing TUT’s top achievers through.
“We will continue to encourage and celebrate hard work. Current students as well as those in their exit stages, should always strive for excellence in everything they do,” he said.
Guest speaker at the event, Dr Zain Reddiar, a transition coach who helps people overcome their fears and bridge the gap of uncertainty by consciously raising their awareness about strategies on increasing their skills and competence. Also, part of the process is building their confidence for the future. Those who were under his tutelage are fortunate to share in his rich and rare experiences towards enhancing their world view and developing them into worthy players on the global stage.
From his vast experience, Dr Reddiar offered valuable advice to the students on what to expect when they step into the workplace after completing their studies. “Your name is your personal brand. Your name is deliberately given to you at birth, but it is much more than just your name. When you enter the place of work, your name is what you are associated with, who you are and the kind of product you are,” Dr Reddiar said.
“It is important to know how to package yourself as a brand - dress, talk, walk and smell. An important part of how you package your brand, is also how you approach social media. Don’t share everything. When applying for a position, most companies will also do a social media check on you when you are considered,” he added.
Dr Reddiar told the students to remember the feeling of greatness in themselves when they receive their awards: "Embrace the moment forever,” he concluded.
Congratulating the top achievers, he added that the Faculty will be monitoring their progress with keen interest and would like to encourage others to strive to achieve more.