Inspiring Journey of Mboniseni Nkomonde: A Student's Triumph Against Adversity

The heart of South Africa's rural landscape beats strongly in the spirit of Mboniseni Nkomonde, an A class student from Velangaye Secondary School, who has earned a coveted invitation to attend the 2025 Matric results announcement at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban this Tuesday.

Hailing from Ulundi, Nkomonde stands out not only for his academic achievements but also for his inspiring journey against the odds.

Principal Sibongiseni Ntuli proudly shares that Nkomonde excels in technological subjects, including Engineering, Graphics and Design, and Mechanical Technology, earning certificates of excellence in these fields.

“The boy is very organised and disciplined,” says Ntuli, highlighting the qualities that have spurred Nkomonde's success in such demanding courses.

However, Nkomonde’s journey has not been without challenges.

Coming from a disadvantaged background where both of his parents are unemployed, he utilises social relief grants for support throughout his schooling.

Ntuli revealed, “The whole family, consisting of about ten dependents, relies on social relief grants for survival, which are not enough to cater to the family's needs satisfactorily.”

Yet despite these hardships, Nkomonde has thrived, driven by the desire to uplift his family and community.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily News on Monday, Nkomonde shared his determination and the various programmes that foster a collaborative learning environment.

The ‘peer-to-peer’ initiative helps students assist each other in understanding challenging subjects.

“We had a top 20 programme where the 20 learners who performed the best were recognised, which motivated me to study hard," Nkomonde explained.

The camaraderie among his peers during study sessions, especially discussions over tricky questions, has significantly enriched his understanding.

Reminiscing about his educational journey, he added, “I used to always think about what others would say at home if I didn't do well in school.

Attending all my classes has also helped me immensely.”

The school's academic day at the end of the year further fuelled his aspirations, spotlighting top achievers in various subjects who received gifts and recognition.

Principal Ntuli emphasises that the school has implemented significant initiatives to support students like Nkomonde.

“Operation Kahle Lingobo and Operation Vimbivila,” he references, are morning and afternoon classes that provide additional academic support, which he personally monitors.

Nkomonde has been with Velangaye since Grade 8 and has demonstrated consistent excellence, illuminating the benefits of a structured learning environment.

Nkomonde’s character transcends the classroom.

An active participant in sports such as soccer and volleyball, he combines his passions with ambition, nurturing a dream of becoming a Civil Engineer.

His overarching vision is to establish a construction company that not only addresses local infrastructure challenges, like pothole filled roads, but also empowers the youth in his community by creating job opportunities.

As he looks to the future, Nkomonde draws inspiration from his mother, whose dedication to family and community has instilled in him a sense of purpose.

“I want to take over from my mother after completing my studies and become a breadwinner for my family,” he stated, expressing his commitment to uplift those around him.