Sukoluhle Linda Dube, originally from rural Zimbabwe, graduated with a master’s degree in economics. She completed her studies while grieving the loss of her mother to cancer, receiving the news during a football tournament in Kimberley. Supported by her sister, also a lecturer at SU, colleagues and teammates, she now plans to pursue a PhD and a future in academia.

Dr Tjaart van der Walt was awarded the degree Doctor of Engineering (DEng), honoris causa. Honoured for his pioneering contributions to engineering, digital technology, and data science. He emphasised the importance of leadership, technology, and relationship equity.

Dr Olive Shisana received the degree Doctor of Science (DSc) (Medicine and Health Sciences) honoris causa. Honoured for her commitment to justice, evidence-based policymaking, and public health. She highlighted SU’s commitment to research, learning, and social impact.

Twins Divano and Diego Blankenberg grew up in Atlantis, in an area affected by gangsterism and crime. Being at the same university and in the same faculty helped them overcome challenges and strive for success. They credit their parents, especially their mother who raised them on her own after their father died, for their achievements.

Blessed Muyanga has graduated with a bachelor's degree in science. His plight during his studies sparked a fundraising campaign that has raised more than R180 000 for science students in need. First-year lecturer Dr Marietjie Lutz started the Wheels of Opportunity initiative when she realised that Muyanga was one of many students with financial challenges.

Xichavo Irvin Makhubele, from a rural village in Limpopo, is the first in his family to attend university. He completed his Bachelor of Public Administration Honours at Stellenbosch University while working for the City of Johannesburg. His graduation was a deeply emotional milestone, shared with family travelling across the country to witness his achievement.

Handré Muller graduated with a master’s degree in physiological sciences from Stellenbosch University. A school outreach visit by SU academics sparked her passion for science and set her on a path into research. Her achievements show the power of mentorship, perseverance and the long-term impact of investing in young minds.

Twin sisters Clio and KD Sass graduated on the same day from Stellenbosch University, decades after their mother’s studies were disrupted by apartheid. Their mother, who died of cancer when they were young, was detained for anti-apartheid activism and forced to abandon her medical degree before later completing a BSc in dietetics. For the sisters, their milestone honours the sacrifices of their parents and their mom’s legacy of resilience.

Delayed but never deterred, Caitlin Leigh Sampson has overcome adversity to graduate cum laude. She graduates just three weeks after giving birth. Sampson hopes to inspire her two sons to rise above obstacles in pursuit of their dreams.

Growing up in Kimberley, Casey-Lee Anthony dreamed of one day becoming a magazine editor in New York. She first applied for an honours degree in journalism at SU in 2021 but failed to make the cut. The determined aspiring journalist persisted, gained practical media experience and became part of SU’s Journalism Class of 2025 that is graduating this week.