In the bustling city of Durban, amidst the vibrant energy of urban life, a young individual’s journey of academic growth and personal development began. Shaista Ebrahim, a determined and ambitious soul, embarked on a path of learning that would ultimately lead her to remarkable achievements. Her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence against all odds.
Ebrahim (22) a student from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Faculty of Accounting, and Informatics under the Department of Information Technology.
Ebrahim’s educational voyage commenced after she matriculated in 2019. Opting for a gap year initially, her plans took a turn due to unforeseen circumstances as the world grappled with the challenges posed by the pandemic-induced lockdown. Undeterred by the obstacles, Ebrahim seized the opportunity to explore her options, eventually finding her calling in the Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology degree at DUT.
Throughout her journey at DUT, Ebrahim embraced the responsibilities that came with being a student. From the onset, she took on the role of class representative, actively engaging in various projects that enriched her academic experience. Despite the hurdles posed by the transition to online learning necessitated by the pandemic, Shaista remained steadfast in her commitment to her studies, leveraging campus facilities upon the return to in-person classes to further her exploration and learning.
The culmination of Ebrahim’s efforts manifested in the form of her graduating with Cum Laude, an achievement that left her in awe. Graduating Cum Laude symbolised not only her dedication to learning but also served as a testament to her perseverance and hard work over the past three years. For Ebrahim, this milestone represents the opening of doors to a myriad of opportunities, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with promise and potential.
“When I found out I was graduating Cum Laude, it was a surreal experience. Without a doubt, this is a significant achievement and I believe it shows my commitment to learning and is also proof of my hard work over the past three years. I am hoping this will open doors to various opportunities,” she said.
Yet, Ebrahim’s journey was not without its challenges. Navigating the uncharted waters of online learning amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic presented its fair share of obstacles. However, through resilience and determination, Ebrahim overcame these challenges, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before.
The news of Ebrahim’s academic triumph was met with overwhelming pride and joy by her family. Their unwavering support and encouragement throughout her journey played a pivotal role in her success, making their shared moment of celebration more meaningful.
IT had always been Ebrahim’s chosen field of study, driven by her passion for technology and innovation. Building upon her high school education in IT, she was determined to further her knowledge and expertise in this dynamic field.
Looking towards the future, Ebrahim remains committed to her pursuit of knowledge. With plans to pursue an honours degree once she is financially stable, she is poised to continue her journey of growth and development in the field of Information and Communications Technology.
As Ebrahim prepares to graduate on Thursday, 23 May 2024 at the Olive Convention Centre, her aspirations for the future are clear. Armed with her degree, she aims to leverage her skills and knowledge to contribute to innovative projects and solutions in the field of ICT, continuously striving to learn and adapt to new technologies.
To aspiring first-year students embarking on a similar career path, Ebrahim offers valuable advice.
“Actively engage with your studies, seek out opportunities for practical experience, and explore different areas within IT to discover your passion and align it with your career goals,” she said.
Currently, Ebrahim is working part-time, eager to gain experience and upskill herself further. Her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth serves as a testament to her commitment to excellence in her chosen field. As she stands on the height of a new chapter in her journey, Ebrahim serves as an inspiration to all who dare to dream and strive for greatness.
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Pictured: Shaista Ebrahim
Siphokazi Dlamini
