YOUTH MONTH
This Youth Month, we're celebrating students who are driving positive change on campus, in their communities and beyond. Through their leadership, compassion and commitment, they are helping to build a better future for South Africa. These profiles highlight the impact and energy of a new generation of changemakers at Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU).
When Senzakahle Mazibuko first arrived in Stellenbosch, he missed the rhythm of his home language and the richness of his rural upbringing in KwaZulu-Natal. “I realised there weren't many visible platforms where isiZulu culture and rural student perspectives were celebrated," he says. Rather than retreat, he chose to lead.
Mazibuko, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) student specialising in French and history, is the co-founder and Vice-Chairperson of the Zulu Society at SU – a vibrant student organisation dedicated to promoting Zulu identity, language and culture. Through cultural events, workshops and campus dialogues, the society has created space for students from diverse backgrounds to connect and learn from one another.
“As someone from a rural area, I've often had to push against structural and social barriers," he explains. “I'm passionate about creating spaces where young people from marginalised backgrounds can thrive and lead with pride in who they are."
A voice for inclusion
As a PGCE representative in the Education Student Committee (ESC), Mazibuko advocates for the academic and emotional wellbeing of PGCE students – many of whom, like him, are navigating university as first-generation students. He was involved in drafting and formulating the constitution in the Zulu society and has also contributed to institutional reform through his role in the Constitutional Review Committee of the Societies Council. In that role he helped draft inclusive constitutions to ensure that student organisations reflect the diversity of the broader university population. Last year, he took part in the Constitution and Disciplinary Committee at House Walter Pary, where he contributed to disciplinary policies.
“I hope to see a higher education environment where cultural diversity is not just tolerated, but embraced," says Mazibuko. “Through my work in the Zulu Society and the ESC, I'm helping create inclusive platforms where students can feel a sense of belonging, and where cultural knowledge is seen as an asset, not a barrier."
For Mazibuko, these efforts align with SU's Vision 2040, which recognises transformation as integral to the institution's future. “Hopefully all the transformation structures will also recognise the importance of cultural transformation and support student initiatives," he adds.
Rooted in community, inspired by resilience
Mazibuko was born in KwaBhekuZulu, a rural community in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal where his appreciation for cultural identity was nurtured. “I saw firsthand how language and culture could either be a source of pride or of invisibility, depending on the space you're in," he says.
That early experience shaped his approach to leadership and education. His goal is to make sure that no student feels unseen or misunderstood in institutional spaces. “Being able to represent and uplift others from backgrounds like mine is something I carry with deep pride."
His efforts were formally recognised last year when Mazibuko received the Rector's Award for Excellence in Culture. “It was a powerful affirmation that the work I do to promote cultural identity and student empowerment matters, not just to me, but to the broader university community," he remarks with a smile.
Mazibuko is quick to point out that his accomplishments are the product of collective care. From his family in KwaBhekuZulu to the friends he describes as “brothers", from his lecturers to community leaders, all have helped shape his story. “I believe that it truly takes a village, and I am the product of collective care, support and belief. I carry the fingerprints of a whole community, and every step I take reflects those who have poured into me."
Holding on to purpose
Two mentors stand out. Dr Gibson Ncube, his French lecturer, “whose mentorship and belief in my academic potential has been life-changing", and Eulender Uys, co-owner of Go Gadgets SA in Strand. “Her work ethic, humility, and commitment to empowering others, especially young black women, continues to inspire me deeply."
When Mazibuko feels overwhelmed, he thinks of his community back home – people who believe in him deeply, even if they don't always understand the academic systems he is navigating. Their quiet faith reminds him why he must keep going. To stay grounded, he turns to Maskandi music, especially Khuzani's “Amayakayaka", a song about resilience and perseverance. “The song's message resonates deeply with me, reminding me to keep going no matter the challenges. I don't remember failing an exam after playing it!"
For him, the key is to keep going. “Real change takes time. Even when progress feels slow, every conversation, every small step, and every initiative adds up."
Asked what advice he would offer to other students hoping to make a difference, Mazibuko's answer reflects the quiet determination that defines him: “Start where you are. Create the space you need – not just for yourself, but for others too."
PHOTO: Stefan Els
GRAPHIC: Geola Bergman?
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