She did it not only for herself but for her forebears

The Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Award has been a meaningful milestone for PhD in Chemistry graduate, Bongisiwe Zozo. This recognition reflects not only merit and excellence but also the dedication and hard work that have gone into achieving such a distinguished honour.

“The award strengthened my professional profile and opened doors that have now translated into tangible career success, says Bongisiwe, who was among the 34 doctoral students who will graduate during the ongoing Summer Graduation ceremonies at CPUT this afternoon. Growing up in a deeply rural and under-resourced village, Mhlohlozi, in Willowvale. Eastern Cape, the fourth child in a family of five fetched water from rivers, did laundry at the riverbanks, and as a young girl was often responsible for collecting firewood from the forest for cooking. Despite limited resources and poor school infrastructure, she was fortunate to have dedicated and committed teachers, “who believed in us”.

In 2014, she embarked on her journey at CPUT, pursuing a Diploma in Analytical Chemistry. She then rose to the challenge, achieving a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with cum laude. Building on that success, she earned a Master’s degree in Chemistry and ultimately fulfilled her dream by completing her PhD in Chemistry at CPUT.

“Reaching this milestone required two things: strong willpower and hard work. Completing a PhD has been the hardest challenge of my life. It demanded a great deal from me, emotionally, mentally, and physically, but it also gave back just as much. I am not the same person I was when I began this journey. There were moments when I wanted to give up, but I kept going because I understood that if I stopped, those coming after me would stop too. I persisted not only for myself, but for my family and for my forebears, whose prayers and sacrifices paved the way for me to stand where I am today.”

Some of her fondest memories were created at her grandmother’s rondavel, where “we shared laughter, stories, and a strong sense of togetherness”. Being raised by her grandmother, who instilled in her discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic, ensured that Bongisiwe stayed on top of her chores and valued education. Growing up in this environment shaped her resilience, perseverance, and appreciation for community and belonging. “It also gave me a deep sense of pride in where I come from and the determination to rise beyond limitations through hard work.”

The avid reader, who has built a personal library at home, attributes her success to hard work, determination, and her late grandmother's inspiring words. She feels a divine purpose to persevere, not just for herself but for future generations who will draw strength from her journey. This belief motivates her to keep pushing forward, even during difficult times. The support she received from CPUT staff throughout her studies was truly magnificent.

“Being an A-grade student, she valued things being organised and running smoothly, and she was fortunate to receive support at every step. From the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, the CPGS, ATS staff, and procurement, to my two invaluable supervisors, Prof Jessy van Wyk and Prof Merill Wicht, I was guided, encouraged, and assisted in ways that made a real difference. Many others also contributed behind the scenes, and I would not have achieved this milestone without their dedication and support.”

Wicht describes Bongisiwe as a delightful young lady who always performed well during her undergraduate years, and that during her postgraduate years, she continued to work in chemistry laboratories, these experiences supporting her in the Master's and Doctoral studies. “Bongi has blossomed into a person with great opportunities related to her research contribution to climate-resilient food systems.”

She says the Food Science and Agrifood staff have formed great pillars of strength during Bongisiwe's studies, including her co-supervisor, Prof Jessy Van Wyk. “Bongi has always set herself goals and worked towards them with purpose. As a postgraduate student, Bongi has always been respectful, dedicated and considerate. She has dedicated her success to the Zozo lineage of women… who have imparted values of hard work and resilience, and the legacy of the strength within her.” Wicht notes that Bongi has appreciated the financial assistance of the Vice-Chancellor's Prestigious Achievers Award. “She has pursued her Doctoral studies with the importance of this award at the forefront of her time at CPUT and has produced work of great significance in the food equity sector.”

Bongi, as she is affectionately known, says balancing studies, family life, and a busy work schedule requires discipline, time management, and prioritisation. “To the younger generation coming from a background similar to mine, I would say: your circumstances do not define your future. No matter what challenges you face, whether limited resources, rural settings, or lack of opportunities: allow yourselves to dream, hard work, determination, and resilience can take you far.”

She adds: “Enkosi, Nangamso. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the awards committee for this incredible recognition. Your support and acknowledgment have been truly motivating and empowering, affirming that hard work, dedication, and perseverance are valued and rewarded.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: BoyceAp@cput.ac.za