Mbuwane overcomes illness to complete postgraduate journalism diploma

Beauty Mbuwane completed her postgraduate diploma at TUT despite severe illness, financial strain, and personal loss, proving resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Beauty Mbuwane Mbuwane, who completed her qualification after a difficult journey marked by serious health challenges and personal setbacks, received her qualification during the 2026 Autumn graduations at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Soshanguve Campus.

She entered the programme with a strong academic record, but her health began to decline early in the year. Without a clear diagnosis, she moved between doctors and hospitals, receiving incorrect treatments with her condition worsening. Despite this, she continued working as a communication officer at the Legal Resources Centre, where she also gained national recognition as a spokesperson.

As her health deteriorated, she struggled to meet work and academic demands. Medical costs mounted until she consulted Dr Connel, a family practitioner, who facilitated her transfer to an academic hospital where she was admitted. From there, she worked to catch up on her studies.

Although she describes the journey as lonely and demanding, Mbuwane credits supportive lecturers and classmates, especially Ms Philippine Maubane, her former lecturer, for their support and helping her to continue.

During the year, she faced financial strain and was placed on medical probation after missing more than 75% of classes and submitting work late. She was advised to complete the programme the following year but chose to continue. Although she studied under difficult conditions, often on chronic medication, she pushed through exams despite limited mobility.

Her challenges continued when she was informed that her employment would end and when she lost a friend just before her final exam. She relapsed but later completed a sick exam, submitted her research proposal, and passed well enough to qualify for a Master’s programme.

Mbuwane reflects on her achievement as bittersweet. Although she did not graduate cum laude like in her previous studies, she values the strength she gained. Her journey showed her that determination and resilience can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.