Graduating on 22 June 2026 with a Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase from the University of South Africa (Unisa) marked a significant milestone in Ntombifuthi Vilakazi's life as a student with visual impairment.

More than an academic achievement that demonstrated her prowess, it is a powerful testament to her resilience, determination and unwavering belief that no obstacle is too great to overcome. Her inspiring journey demonstrates how perseverance and commitment can turn challenges into opportunities for success.

Born and raised in Katlehong, Gauteng, Vilakazi completed her matric at Phumulani Secondary School in 2014. Driven by her passion for education and personal growth, she enrolled at Boston Business College and successfully completed a Higher Certificate in Human Resources. With her career aspirations taking shape, she looked forward to building a bright future.

However, in 2016, her life took an unexpected turn when she lost her sight. The experience brought immense emotional and personal challenges as she adapted to a completely different way of living. Faced with uncertainty about her future, Vilakazi refused to allow her disability to define her life.

Her journey towards independence began when she enrolled at Optima College, a primary training facility of the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB), where she received rehabilitation and specialised training designed to equip blind individuals with essential life skills. Through orientation and mobility training, assistive technology and independent living skills, she gradually rebuilt her confidence. More importantly, the college became a place of hope and inspiration, where she met other visually impaired individuals who were studying, working and living independently.

A significant influence during this period came from a blind facilitator at Optima College after she experienced the facilitator’s professionalism, confidence and independence. These attributes inspired Vilakazi to believe that blindness did not limit one's potential. Encouraged by his mentorship, she applied to Unisa to pursue a qualification and fulfil her dream of becoming a teacher.

Today, Vilakazi proudly celebrates earning her Bachelor of Education, describing the qualification as one of the greatest accomplishments of her life. She believes the degree represents years of perseverance, adaptability, resilience and determination in the face of adversity. This decision to pursue a teaching qualification was also inspired by a deep desire to make a meaningful difference in learners' lives. Having experienced first-hand the transformative power of support, encouragement and accessible education after losing her sight, she became determined to provide the same opportunities for others.

Vilakazi hopes to create inclusive classrooms where every learner feels respected, valued and capable of succeeding regardless of their background or circumstances. She believes that patience, empathy, resilience and encouragement are essential qualities for every educator and intends to use both her professional knowledge and personal experiences to promote inclusive education.

"Throughout my academic journey," she says, "Unisa played a vital role in ensuring that my studies remained accessible. The university provided learning materials and assessments in accessible electronic formats compatible with screen-reading technology, enabling me to complete my coursework independently. This experience has made me forever grateful to Unisa. The university's disability support services allowed me to work closely with lecturers in ensuring that my learning materials and assessments accommodated my needs as a visually impaired student."

Vilakazi says the university consistently treated her with dignity and respect, creating an environment where she felt included rather than limited by her disability. The support she received strengthened her confidence and reinforced her belief that quality education should be accessible to everyone.

Reflecting on her journey, Vilakazi encourages others, particularly people living with disabilities, never to allow their circumstances to determine their future. She believes education has the power to transform lives, build confidence and create opportunities that once seemed impossible.

She urges students to believe in their abilities, seek support when needed and focus on their strengths rather than their limitations. "Although I lost my sight," she says, "I never lost my vision for the future."

Vilakazi's inspiring journey stands as a powerful reminder that with faith, perseverance, determination and the right support, even life's greatest challenges can become stepping stones towards success. Her story continues to inspire future educators and students alike, proving that resilience and hope can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

* By Dr Freddy Abilio Mlambo, Communication and Marketing Specialist, College of Education