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Sometimes the path to success does not unfold as planned. Meet Thandaza Ndinga, a Bachelor of Commerce in Law graduate from our Mowbray campus, whose journey into higher education began with uncertainty. Having completed her Commerce degree and now working towards her LLB, Thandaza's story demonstrates the impact of resilience, growth, and a commitment to never giving up.
Thandaza's academic journey began at Ntwasahlobo Primary School and Joe Slovo Engineering High School. After matric, she applied for Bachelor's degree programmes, but without a Bachelor's pass, she faced rejection from every institution she approached. What initially felt like a closed door became a defining turning point in her life.
She reflects. "At the time, it felt discouraging, but it also became the turning point that shaped my journey."
Instead of giving up on her studies, she found an alternative pathway through Eduvos, supported by a bursary opportunity and a Higher Certificate in Business Management. This marked the beginning of a new chapter where she could rebuild her academic confidence and refocus her goals.
"I chose to study at Eduvos because it gave me an opportunity when many doors had closed," she says.
She didn't just gain access to higher education. She found an environment that supported her growth both academically and personally, allowing her to develop the confidence needed to progress into a degree qualification. This foundation eventually led her to complete her Bachelor of Commerce in Law degree and to continue her academic journey toward an LLB.
"What I appreciate most about Eduvos is that it created an environment where I felt seen, supported, and encouraged to grow academically and personally."
For Thandaza, law became more than an academic pursuit. It became a way to understand people, advocate for fairness, and contribute meaningfully to communities where access to legal knowledge is often limited. This sense of purpose shaped her commitment throughout her studies.
"What excites me most about the legal field is the ability to use knowledge to create impact and help people navigate challenges that can completely change their lives," she says.
Her time at Eduvos strengthened both her academic ability and her approach to learning. The curriculum and classroom environment encouraged critical thinking, practical application, and consistent discipline. These skills became essential as she navigated more complex aspects of her qualification and prepared for the professional world.
A defining moment in her journey was the Work Integrated Learning Programme in her third year. Through this module, she completed practical work experience at a private law firm specialising in Commercial Law. This exposure gave her insight into the real-world application of her studies and helped bridge the gap between theory and practice.
"During that time, I gained valuable real-world exposure to the legal profession and developed a deeper understanding of the practical side of law beyond the classroom," she explains.
Alongside her academic development, she credits key lecturers for shaping her growth and confidence. Their mentorship and guidance supported her through different stages of her qualification and encouraged her to push beyond her perceived limitations.
"Their support, mentorship, and belief in their students made a lasting impact on my journey," she reflects.
Graduating represents more than academic achievement for Thandaza. It reflects perseverance, discipline, and a journey of overcoming self-doubt and uncertainty. What once felt out of reach has now become a milestone that reshaped her sense of possibility.
"Graduating feels surreal and deeply emotional for me,” she says. “It represents years of hard work, sacrifice, faith, and overcoming self-doubt."
Her qualification helped her develop resilience, a growth mindset, and the ability to stay consistent even in challenging circumstances.
"One of the biggest lessons I learned is that your starting point does not determine your future," she explains.
As she continues toward her LLB, Thandaza is focused on expanding her knowledge and gaining further experience in the legal field. Her long-term vision is to use law as a tool for empowerment, particularly for individuals from disadvantaged communities who may feel excluded from access to justice and opportunity.
"I hope to make an impact by becoming someone who uses the law to empower and uplift others," she says.
Looking ahead, she hopes her journey serves as encouragement for others facing setbacks after matric or during their academic paths. Her story reinforces that success is not always immediate, but it is possible with persistence, discipline, and belief in a different future.
"I want people to see that success is still possible even if your path looks different from everyone else's," she shares.
Thandaza's journey is a reminder that resilience can reshape direction, and that every setback can become the beginning of something greater.
Applications for our next intake are open. Enrol today and you could start as early as 20 July. If you are currently in matric, make Eduvos your first choice and pre-enrol for 2027 to begin your higher education journey.
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