UJ at 20 Through the Eyes of a 20-Year-Old: My Journey of Growth, Identity, and Purpose

 

Twenty years ago, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) was born out of a bold vision to transform higher education in South Africa. Coincidentally, that same year, I was born. Now, as UJ celebrates two decades of impact, I reflect on how this institution has shaped me not just as a student, but as a person navigating purpose, identity, and ambition in this scary city that moves faster than a coffee-fueled cheetah.

A Place That Unlocked My Voice

Stepping into UJ was like stepping into possibility. In just two years, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. I’ve had the privilege of representing my classmates or maybe myself at time as a class representative for two consecutive years, a role that taught me the value of leadership and advocacy but “Disclaimer, Leadership may cause mild to severe stress, spontaneous decision-making, and an uncontrollable urge to pretend you know what you’re doing when you clearly don't", are you ready for that!?

I’ve also become a proud member of the UJ drama society, where I discovered the healing power of storytelling and stage performance.

One of the most empowering experiences has been working on a mental health campaign with PsyCad. This initiative aimed to dismantle the stigmas surrounding depression and anxiety, a cause close to my heart. It was through this campaign that I learned the power of communication not just as a tool for persuasion, but as a form of healing and transformation.

Community, Belonging, and Identity

More than just academics, UJ gave me a sense of community and belonging. As a homosexual student, that hasn’t always come easy. But here, I found space to be unapologetically myself. UJ didn’t just accept me it empowered me. It gave me the courage to own my narrative, to speak openly, and to find confidence in my identity.

This sense of inclusion runs deep in UJ’s DNA. Born from the merger in 2005, UJ was designed to be an inclusive institution one that reflects the diversity and richness of South Africa. Today, that vision continues to shine, not just through policies, but through lived student experiences like mine.

Milestones That Mattered

Looking back, I’ve had some surreal moments that still leave me in awe. I’ve rubbed shoulders with leaders like the our Chancellor and former Deputy President  Mme Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka , Vice-Chancellor Professor  Mpedi, deans, ministers. I attended the Former Presidency Summit and had a life-changing moment meeting Mme Naledi Pandor at the Palestine Summit for Change an encounter that reignited my passion for diplomacy and advocacy.

My voice found a national platform through SABC’s Ikwekwezi FM, where I’ve featured multiple times on the Teen Zone programme alongside my classmate Mr Ndala. Through those conversations, I realized how powerful youth voices can be when given the right platform.

As part of the SRC’s Mr and Miss UJ APB organizing committee, I also gained hands-on experience in media relations and event coordination. These responsibilities have sharpened my professional skills and shown me that I’m capable of handling the pressure that comes with leadership.

From the Classroom to the World

The academic experience at UJ has been just as transformative. One module in particular ,Media 2A surprisingly challenged me to dream big. It pushed me to initiate contact with the Dean of Humanities for my group academic project. That alone gave me the kind of confidence I’ll carry with me for life.

I’ve also been deeply involved in community outreach. Through UJ’s Community Engagement programs, I’ve worked with organizations like the Ntethelelo Foundation, Boys and Girls tutoring young learners, participated in clean-up campaigns, helped in food gardening initiatives,all routed in addressing Sustainable Development Goals. I’ve come to understand that leadership isn’t about position it’s about service.When I read stories of successful UJ alumni, I’m reminded of the legacy we’re a part of. People like Busisiwe Mkhwebane advocate and prosecutor who served as the 4^th Public Protector South Africa this story inspires me. This shows me that UJ doesn’t just teach, it launches futures.

The Heart of It All: My Family and My Why

Through every high and low, my family has been my anchor. Their support and encouragement have kept me grounded in moments of doubt. They’ve reminded me that with belief and perseverance, anything is possible. Their faith in me has made it easier to walk this path with confidence.

Future Reimagined  

 

UJ has changed over the past 20 years, evolving into a globally recognized academicforce. With accolades like ranking among the world’s top 500 universities, embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and pioneering research in AI and sustainability.But more importantly or students like me it’s a place of becoming.Here’s to UJ: for the dreams it nurtures, the leaders it moulds, and the future it builds.

#UJ20 #MyUJStory# Future Reimagined