Leadership, Growth and Global Learning shape student’s journey
DEDICATED: Milisa Chiliza
Thursday, 11 June 2026
From student leadership roles to international exposure in the United Kingdom – Milisa Chiliza’s academic journey reflects resilience and a deep commitment to personal growth.
One of the most transformative opportunities of her journey has been being selected as a fellow of the Abe Bailey Trust Fellowship Programme in 2024.
“The fellowship is a prestigious leadership and cultural exchange programme that selects a small group of emerging leaders from universities across South Africa each year. Fellows participate in a three-week programme in the United Kingdom, where they engage with universities, organisations, and cultural institutions while participating in discussions around leadership, history, governance, and social responsibility,” she said.
“The Abe Bailey Fellowship taught me valuable lessons about leadership, governance and international relations, but more importantly, it deepened my self-awareness. It challenged any imposter syndrome I may have had, expanded my sense of possibility, strengthened my confidence and grounded my ambitions in empathy and global awareness.”
During her time in the UK, she contributed to community initiatives through her involvement with the Mayor of Camden’s Office in London, which further expanded her understanding of civic engagement and communication within communities.
Milisa completed her Advanced Diploma in Visual Communication Design in 2025 and is now pursuing her Honours in Applied Design.
Throughout her studies, she has been actively involved in a wide range of initiatives. Her roles include serving as a student mentor, holding multiple positions on the Residence House Committee, and working as Head Presenter at CPUT Live. In this role, she has interviewed prominent figures including Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo and BET-nominated artist Nasty C.
She also worked as a Student Assistant in the Faculty of Informatics and Design.
Her role models are her mother and late grandmother.
“They taught me what it means to be unapologetically yourself and to pursue your goals with courage and conviction,” she said. “Their unwavering support, wisdom and love gave me the confidence to dream boldly.”
For Milisa, Youth Month holds deep meaning as a reminder of the power of young people to drive change.
“Youth Day is a reminder that meaningful change often begins with young people who are brave enough to challenge the status quo,” she said. “It is about using our voices, talents and opportunities to create positive change in our communities.”
Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za
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