Refusing to let silence define her story

For Zamile Mafuna, graduating with a Postgraduate Diploma in Science, Engineering and Technology from Unisa was far more than an academic achievement. It was the fulfilment of a dream shaped by resilience, discipline and an unwavering belief in the power of education.

Mafuna, an IT service management professional in the public sector with more than 15 years of experience, was born deaf. Throughout her life, she has faced communication and accessibility challenges, but she has never allowed these barriers to define her future. Instead, they became part of the strength that carried her forward.

Her passion for education and technology has always motivated her to keep learning and growing. For Mafuna, continuous learning is a pathway to professional development and a source of confidence and personal empowerment.

“I believe that education can change lives,” she says. “I wanted to prove to myself that determination, perseverance and hard work can overcome obstacles and create opportunities.”

Choosing Unisa was an important step in making this possible. The university’s flexible distance-learning model allowed her to continue working full-time while pursuing her studies. For a professional with demanding responsibilities, this approach meant she could pursue academic development without putting her career on hold.

The journey, however, was not without challenges. Mafuna had to balance a full-time career with assignments, deadlines and study commitments. Many evenings and weekends were spent focusing on her studies, often while managing the additional communication and accessibility barriers that came with being a deaf student.

She overcame these challenges through careful planning, time management and a clear focus on her long-term goals. Support also played a meaningful role in her success. She credits the Advocacy and Resource Centre for Students with Disabilities (ARCSWiD), as well as understanding lecturers, colleagues, and her family, for encouraging her throughout her academic journey. “Earning my qualification is one of my proudest achievements, and I realised that this achievement demonstrates that challenges do not have to limit what we can accomplish.”

When she finally reached the graduation stage during Unisa’s winter graduations, Mafuna felt proud, grateful and humbled. The moment represented years of sacrifice and personal growth. It also reminded her that challenges do not have to limit what a person can achieve.

Her message to other students, especially those living with disabilities or facing difficult circumstances, is simple but powerful: never allow your circumstances to define your future. “Believe in yourself, even when the journey feels difficult,” she says. “Stay focused on your goals, embrace every opportunity to learn, and never give up because of temporary setbacks.”

Mafuna’s story is a reminder that education remains one of the greatest investments a person can make in themselves. Her achievement stands as an inspiring example of courage, lifelong learning and the belief that, with the right support and a determined spirit, students can achieve more than they ever imagined.

* By Cilla Boucher, Alumni Relations Officer, Department of Institutional Advancement