Abigail Mbalo’s career journey has been anything but conventional, taking her from dental technology to entrepreneurship, tourism and television to academia.

The lecturer in the Department of Dental Sciences believes that careers do not have to fit into a single box.

“Success is rarely a straight line, and sometimes the most rewarding journeys are the ones that combine our different passions.”

Mbalo, who grew up in Gugulethu and Khayelitsha, obtained her National Diploma in Dental Technology from Peninsula Technikon in 1998, followed by a BTech in Dental Technology from CPUT in 2010. She is currently completing her Master of Health Sciences in Dental Technology.

Before joining CPUT as a senior dental technologist in 2008 she gained extensive experience in her field.

In 2014 she became widely known when she participated in MasterChef SA season 3.

“MasterChef taught me that growth happens outside your comfort zone. The competition pushed me to trust my instincts, perform under pressure and embrace criticism as an opportunity to improve.

“One of the biggest lessons I took away was that excellence is not about perfection; it is about consistency, adaptability and having the courage to keep learning. Those lessons have influenced the way I teach, encouraging my students to see mistakes as part of the learning process rather than something to fear.”

In 2016 she left CPUT to pursue her passion for food and entrepreneurship.

“During my time away from CPUT, I pursued my passion for food and entrepreneurship and founded 4Roomed eKasi Culture, a township-based culinary tourism business, where I served as Founder and Creative Director from 2016 to 2021. The experience broadened my understanding of entrepreneurship, innovation, community engagement and creating opportunities through culture and food.

“I returned to CPUT in 2021 as a lecturer in the Department of Dental Sciences. My journey across dental technology, management, entrepreneurship and education has given me a diverse perspective that I now bring into the classroom, particularly in helping students connect their technical training with professional practice, innovation and the broader possibilities within their careers.”

She sees teaching and cooking as forms of creativity.

“They may seem like different worlds, but they share many of the same qualities: discipline, precision, patience, problem-solving and attention to detail. Balancing both requires careful planning and prioritising.”

Earlier this year, she delivered an interfaculty guest lecture and live culinary demonstration at CPUT’s Cape Town Hotel School as part of the Professional Cookery Gastronomy 3 curriculum. The session allowed her to combine her experiences as a chef, entrepreneur

and educator by sharing knowledge about indigenous South African grains, food innovation, recipe development and the social and economic impact of food.

“What made this experience particularly meaningful was the opportunity to contribute to learning outside my own discipline. It showed me how our different areas of expertise at CPUT can complement one another and create richer learning experiences for students. The engagement also allowed me to share lessons from my journey with 4Roomed eKasi Culture, demonstrating how food can be used to tell stories, preserve culture, create economic opportunities and drive social impact,” she said.

“My experience as a MasterChef South Africa contestant and my journey in food entrepreneurship have therefore become more than personal passions. They have become another way in which I contribute to the CPUT community.”

Mbalo believes this spirit of collaboration is central to the CPUT value of oneness.

“To me, oneness means recognising that every person’s success contributes to our collective success,” she says.

This philosophy extends beyond her own department. Through CPUT’s EmpowerHER/Amajitas Mentoring Programme, she currently mentors two female students from different disciplines – one from Food Technology and another from Business and Information Administration.

Through the programme, she supports students with academic development, confidence, career planning and personal growth.

“Supporting students outside Dental Technology has broadened my understanding of the different journeys and challenges they face,” she says.

“It also means building bridges between academia and industry, collaborating with colleagues across disciplines and sharing knowledge generously. I believe education is strongest when we work together, and I try to reflect that in everything I do.”

Mbalo grew up in Gugulethu and Khayelitsha, where family, community and culture played an important role in shaping her outlook on life.

Growing up in these communities taught her the importance of resilience, generosity and supporting others – values that continue to guide her personal and professional life.

She is also a proud mother to one son and a devoted carer to two cats.

Her passion for food is deeply connected to her upbringing and her appreciation of South African culture.

“Growing up, food was more than a meal – it was a way of bringing people together, celebrating culture and creating memories at home,” she says.

Mbalo says CPUT has played an important role in her own development, challenging her to grow both personally and professionally.

“Personally, CPUT has taught me resilience and the importance of lifelong learning,” she says.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

For Tumiso Mfisa, CPUT has been far more than a place of study and work – it has been a space of transformation, growth and purpose.

Having first arrived at the institution as a student in 2015, his journey has taken him from peer educator and student leader to an award-winning staff member committed to creating opportunities for others. Now, as he prepares to take up a new role as Senior Officer: Economic Activation in the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) next month, he reflects on a decade of personal and professional growth shaped by the institution.

Until the end of July, he serves as Stream Coordinator: Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity at the Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC), where he coordinates and supports a range of gender transformation initiatives, programmes and institutional reporting processes that contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable university environment.

“There is rarely a typical day in my current role,” he says.

“My time is often spent coordinating projects, compiling reports, engaging with stakeholders, supporting policy implementation, and participating in initiatives that advance diversity, inclusivity and social justice across the institution. What I enjoy most is being part of work that aims to create meaningful change and foster a greater sense of belonging within the CPUT community.”

His next chapter will allow him to contribute to strengthening the role of universities in driving entrepreneurship, innovation and economic development.

The Economic Activation Office serves as a central node within the university, connecting entrepreneurial activities, stakeholders and resources to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem.

“In this role, I will support initiatives that align with CPUT's Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of preparing students for the future, enhancing readiness for the world of work, supporting the future generation of scholars, strengthening relevant research focus areas, and contributing to social, cultural and economic growth.

“While my current work focuses on social transformation, my new role will provide an opportunity to broaden this impact by helping create pathways for innovation, enterprise development and meaningful socio-economic advancement within and beyond the university. The transition reflects my passion for creating opportunities, building partnerships and contributing to positive change, whether through transformation and inclusion or through entrepreneurship and economic activation.”

His journey at CPUT began as a student pursuing a National Diploma in Management, followed by a BTech in Business Administration. He later completed a BA Honours in Development Studies at the University of the Western Cape and is completing a Master of Social Science Specialising in Social Development at the University of Cape Town.

Looking back, he credits CPUT with opening doors that shaped both his career and character.

“CPUT has been my breakthrough territory, providing me with opportunities to grow from the classroom into a professional career.”

He began serving as a Peer Educator in 2016 before becoming a Senior Peer Educator and Peer Mentor. This journey eventually led him to serve as Chairperson of the District Six Campus Student Representative Council (SRC), where his passion for serving others was cemented.

Although entering the workplace was not immediate, he remained determined.

“Perseverance paid off when I began my professional career at CPUT in 2020. Since then, the institution has continued to provide opportunities to learn, lead and contribute meaningfully.”

One of the highlights of his career came in 2024 when he was recognised as part of the prestigious CPUT Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Awards.

“It reflects the growth, opportunities and support I have received throughout my journey at the university.”

Mfisa is passionate about mentorship, believing that investing in people is one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting change.

“Mentorship has played a significant role in my own growth, and I believe it is one of the most powerful ways to develop future leaders.”

He continues: “I am particularly passionate about male development and creating spaces where young men can engage in meaningful reflection, build emotional intelligence and become responsible, socially conscious leaders. For me, mentorship is about empowering others, fostering accountability and helping people make a positive impact in their communities and beyond”.

Born and raised in Nyanga East, Cape Town, he says his upbringing has shaped his resilience and purpose.

“I witnessed many of the challenges that young people, particularly young black men, face every day. By the grace of God, I was able to rise above those circumstances and pursue opportunities that helped shape the person I am today.”

Outside the office, he remains deeply involved in community development, mentorship and youth empowerment. He enjoys reading, listening to old-school gospel music, spending time with family and friends, and participating in church activities that strengthen his faith and sense of purpose.

When asked what CPUT's value of Oneness means to him, his answer reflects the collaborative approach that has guided his journey.

“Oneness means working collectively towards a shared purpose. It is about building meaningful relationships, collaborating across different teams and recognising that our greatest impact comes when we work together.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

Dr Saarah Davids’ journey from Data Capturer to a Data Super-Hero is a celebration of Oneness and Smartness.

Her motivating belief is that limitations are often self-imposed and, that with the right attitude and persistence, challenges can be overcome.

Through sheer grit and a willingness to learn new skills Davids has crafted out a unique niche for herself in the SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Unit where she simplifies the incorporation of data science through her work as a researcher.

“I introduced informal “lunch-time coding” sessions where staff and postgraduate students could engage with basic coding in a relaxed, collaborative environment. The informal exposure helped students build confidence, making it easier for them to engage with structured learning. Many then went on to enrol in online courses, supported by the foundation they had gained. Ultimately, my goal is to shift mindsets by showing that with the right support and exposure, students can develop new skills that expand their opportunities and reduce perceived limitations,” she says.

And she understands all too well how building confidence can reap career goals later down the line.

“I started as a data capturer at CPUT (even though I had a Master’s degree at the time). Curiosity and mentorship sparked my growth in research and that journey led me to complete a PhD in Medicine at UCT while supporting others in developing their own research skills,” she says.

Today Davids supervises postgraduate students, has published widely, and is working towards an NRF rating.

“I support postgraduate students by checking in on them and offering guidance when they feel overwhelmed by the demands of research. I also teach postgraduate students, both individually and in groups, to run their own statistical analyses so that they better understand their data and projects.

“For staff, I act as a collaborative partner. Someone they can approach to discuss ideas, challenge assumptions constructively, and explore different perspectives to strengthen their projects. In the laboratory, If I can help, I will, and if not, I connect people to the right support.”

Davids says CPUT has provided a supportive, enabling environment to nurture her own potential and she remains grateful for the opportunities presented.

“I truly appreciate how CPUT has opened doors for me in ways I never imagined possible. It has given me opportunities to grow, connect with inspiring people locally and internationally, and continuously develop as a researcher. Most importantly, it has given me a space to give back through teaching and mentoring young scientists, allowing me to contribute to something bigger than myself and help shape the next generation,” she says.

Written by Lauren Kansley
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

Ntombekhaya Gwaqa is driven by a simple goal – to change how students perceive the library.

As Marketing Librarian for CPUT Libraries, she sees her role as an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective and this has become her passion.

“The library offers a wealth of resources, tools and expert support that can truly enhance a student’s academic journey. It is always surprising to me that some students complete their studies without fully using the library and all it has to offer.

“There are librarians who are ready to guide students, as well as tools that can assist with research, assignments, and overall academic success. Being able to communicate this and bring that awareness to students is something I am very passionate about.”

She is not afraid of exploring new ways of connecting with students and bringing the library closer to them.

“I strongly believe that growth happens outside of one’s comfort zone and I am always willing to try new approaches. One of the ways I do this is by embracing social media as a tool to connect with students. In marketing, it is important to meet your audience where they are. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram allow us to bring the library closer to students in a relatable and engaging way.

“To affirm that we are on the right track, in 2025 we received a special mention from International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), a globally recognised and respected organisation in the library sector. This recognition encourages us to continue growing and expanding our digital presence, and we see it as just the beginning of what is possible.”

Her career journey didn’t start from a traditional library background.

“I studied Marketing and Communications, which laid the foundation for my career. In the early stages of my career, I worked as a lecturer, teaching marketing and related subjects. That is where I developed a strong passion for working with students and engaging with them in meaningful ways.

“I later joined Nelson Mandela University, where I was responsible for student recruitment. This role gave me the opportunity to travel across all nine provinces, engaging with learners from different backgrounds and schools across South Africa. It was a very rewarding experience that helped me build strong connections with students and understand their needs on a deeper level.”

Over the year she has held various managerial roles within the marketing space. “However, at some point, I reflected on my journey and realised that my true passion lies in engaging directly with people — especially students and users of a service. That is what led me to apply for the Marketing Librarian position at CPUT.”

She joined CPUT in April 2023.

“One of the aspects I truly enjoy about my role is working with the people in the library. There is a strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose. Whenever we introduce a campaign or idea, everyone contributes and supports it. That level of collaboration makes the work both effective and enjoyable.”

Gwaqa was born and raised in the Eastern Cape and comes from a “very big family”. We are eight siblings … cousins of cousins are regarded as immediate family at my home. I have two amazing boys,” she said.

“I value growth, connection and staying inspired. To unwind, I enjoy music, dancing, and travelling... I enjoy both the old classics I grew up with and today’s music.

“For me, it is a privilege to connect with music in all its forms. Even songs that are not from my age group resonate with me—like The World is Moving, We Were Meant to Stay, which I sing with passion. It reminds me that we are not meant to remain in one place or one mindset, and that there is so much happening in the world for us to experience, learn from, and appreciate while we are here.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

Guided by passion and perseverance, Noleen Miller’s inspiring career highlights how continuous development and resilience can open doors to new possibilities.

Noleen’s journey with CPUT started as an administrative assistant and about two decades later she stepped into a new role – lecturer in the Department of Business and Information Administration.

She faced many hurdles along the way but her commitment to personal and professional growth drove her to success.

In August 2001 she started her career as an Administrative Assistant in the Science Faculty at Cape Technikon. In 2006 she was promoted to Departmental Secretary and joined the Wellness Sciences Department in the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

“My career journey has been driven by continuous learning and a commitment to professional growth. After completing my National Diploma and BTech in Business Administration, I built a strong foundation for a career in administration. I later pursued a Master’s in Business Administration, which I completed in 2014, accompanied by two published research articles.”

In 2020, she was presented with an exciting opportunity.

“I began part-time lecturing in the Business and Information Administration Department. This marked the start of my academic career, and the experience I gained eventually led me to apply for a permanent lecturing position. The combination of academic qualifications, experience and determination shaped the path to my current role.”

Her path was not without obstacles, yet she remained determined to succeed.

“One of the most significant challenges I faced was completing my Master’s qualification while working full-time as administrative and support staff typically do not receive dedicated research time. Much of my research and writing took place outside standard working hours, all whilst juggling parenthood, which also required my undivided attention.

“I also had to prove my worth in the face of multiple rejections for lecturing positions. However, as the saying goes, "what missed you is not meant for you." I believe that these delays and setbacks were part of God’s hand of protection, and that patience was necessary for me to receive the opportunities He had planned. Additionally, transitioning from an administrative to an academic role required me to consistently demonstrate my capabilities and potential in a new professional environment.”

She says her administrative background has been extremely beneficial in her lecturing role.

“The organisational skills I developed, including managing schedules, coordinating activities, and handling administrative processes, support the effective planning and delivery of lectures. Strong communication skills enhance my ability to engage students and convey complex information clearly. My familiarity with institutional policies and academic administration has also helped me navigate academic processes with confidence. Overall, the competencies gained as a departmental secretary continue to strengthen my effectiveness as a lecturer.”

Miller grew up in Grassy Park and says the community played an important role in shaping her values, morals, and overall identity.

“My upbringing taught me that a person’s worth is not defined by where they live or the school they attended, but by the principles they uphold and the character they demonstrate.

“I am married and a mother of two teenage daughters, and my family continues to be my greatest source of support. I also believe it is essential to cultivate interests outside of work. Having personal passions contributes to balance, creativity, and emotional wellbeing, ensuring that life is not centred solely around professional responsibilities. Meaningful interests bring fulfilment, broaden one’s perspective, and offer a healthy outlet for expression and relaxation.”

Her interests include blogging, lifestyle and food content creation, as well as food photography. “These creative pursuits not only allow me to express myself, but it also opened doors to engaging with people and organisations beyond my work environment. Through these activities, I have been able to network, collaborate, and build meaningful connections with individuals and communities who share similar passions. These interactions continue to enrich both my personal and professional life.”

She credits Dr Zelda Vergotine, former Head of the Wellness Sciences Department, for playing an instrumental role in her career development.

“Her commitment to my professional development provided me with valuable opportunities to contribute to key projects and initiatives. Through her mentorship, support, and encouragement, I was able to build confidence, expand my skill set, and prepare for greater responsibilities. Her guidance not only shaped my professional capabilities but also significantly contributed to my successful transition into academia.”

Her advice to other administrative support staff members who would like to pursue a career in academia is as follows: “Continuous upskilling, along with intentional personal development, is essential to advancing your career. Embrace new opportunities as they arise, even when they fall outside your job description. Taking on additional responsibilities may require extra effort, but it builds valuable experience and strengthens your skill set. Achieving your goals requires sacrifice, commitment, and resilience.”

She continues: “I have been fortunate to be inspired by many former administrative staff members who became academics, including Prof Rozenda Hendrickse (my Master’s supervisor), Dr Faeda Mohsam, Dr Courtney Pharoah, and Mr Douglas Dyers. Their journeys reaffirm that growth is always possible when you remain dedicated and proactive.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

For Athenkosi Bucwa, working at CPUT is not just a job — it is a calling.

From his early days as a Residence Student Assistant to his current role as Residence Coordinator, Bucwa’s journey at the university spans more than 12 years.

Along the way he discovered his passion – working with students.

His dedication and commitment were recognised last year when he was announced as the winner of the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Service Excellence delivered by Administrative and Support Staff.

“I was so shocked. When Prof Hay-Swemmer called my name, I was literally shaking. What I love most about my job is interacting with students. I see myself as a mentor to them.”

Born in Cape Town and raised in the Eastern Cape, Bucwa’s path to success was not without obstacles.

“I arrived in CPUT as a walk-in and the following week we were already writing exams. For my first semester, my marks were not good.

“So there was a delay in my academics for about a year which, when I look back, I realised that that delay was created by God because I do not know what I would have become in terms of my career had I passed in time and went out to industry. Maybe I would have not found my passion, which is to work with students.”

Over the years, Bucwa has served the university in many capacities — from Applications Office intern to departmental administrator, to Residence Coordinator.

He now works as Residence Coordinator at City Edge and, importantly to Bucwa, he sees mentorship to students as a crucial part of what he brings on board.

The father of three runs a programme for male students and says it began as a response to something he observed among male students: silence.

“We are taught that men don’t cry,” he explains. “So they bottle up a lot of things. And when you bottle up a lot of things, you end up misbehaving.”

The programme creates a safe space where male students can speak.

“We'll talk about matters affecting men. Often a boy child often feels neglected, so I use that opportunity to influence the men they become, also to influence society.”

This year he is launching a new initiative titled Charity Begins at Home. After asking students who completed their studies last year to donate clothes and shoes they no longer needed, he was overwhelmed by the response.

The plan is to distribute these to first-year students who may be facing financial hardship — but with dignity at the forefront. Students will wear masks during collection to ensure anonymity and protect their pride.

“I don’t want a student to miss class because they’re ashamed of wearing the same shirt every day,” he says. “You can’t solve everything. But the little you can do — do it.”

Bucwa is not only a mentor; he is also a forward-thinker.

He has introduced systems that make residence operations more efficient, including online occupancy lists and is determined to reduce paperwork and improve efficiency. He has championed digital solutions within residences.

Bucwa admits there have been difficult times in his career — moments that tested his resilience. But they have not diminished his commitment.

“Working for CPUT has been a dream,” he says. “I would love to grow in the institution, to influence more students, to continue this work.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.