Introduction
Meet Mr Zolani Madlwabinga, a proud graduate of Port Elizabeth TVET College. Originally from Humansdorp and now residing in Port Elizabeth, he has built an impressive academic and professional career in the field of Tourism.
Academic Journey at PE TVET College
Mr Madlwabinga completed the NCV Tourism programme at Russell Road Campus from 2008 to 2010. He remembers the supportive lecturers, strong peer relationships, and a memorable educational tour to Johannesburg his first flight.
Despite later learning that an administrative error had placed him in the NCV programme even though he had passed Grade 12, he remained committed and excelled throughout his studies.
Motivation to Study at the College
After an unsuccessful application to Nelson Mandela University in 2007, an advertisement in The Herald sparked his interest in PE TVET College. Positive feedback from acquaintances and online research led him to enrol confidently.
Skills and Personal Development
During his time at the college, he gained crucial tourism related and professional skills, including customer service, communication, tourism operations, teamwork, time management, accountability, and adaptability.
The NCV programme’s practical learning and exposure to diverse peers and lecturers strengthened his interpersonal and cross-cultural abilities key competencies in South Africa’s tourism industry.
Influential Lecturers
He credits Ms Windvogel, his Tourism Operations lecturer, for encouraging deep engagement and curiosity, and Ms Attwell, his Communication lecturer, for recognising his academic potential and motivating him to pursue university studies. Their mentorship had a lasting influence on his career.
Challenges and Growth
Coming from a small town, he initially struggled to adjust to the diverse college environment and faced language barriers due to limited English proficiency. Through tutoring, study groups, and continuous practice, he overcame these challenges and built the confidence needed for academic success.
Further Studies and University Achievements
Although he did not complete an internship, he advanced directly to Nelson Mandela University, where he amassed an impressive academic record:
- Master of Commerce in Tourism Management
- BCom Honours in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Technology in Tourism Management
- National Diploma in Tourism Management (Cum Laude)
He is currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in TVET Teaching, expected to be completed in 2026, while working as a lecturer at Port Elizabeth TVET College.
His studies provided deep insight into tourism management, strengthened his research and writing skills, and offered professional exposure through the Future Leaders’ Forum at Meetings Africa. His numerous awards reflect his dedication and academic excellence.
Overcoming University Challenges
Transitioning from college to university presented financial, cultural, and academic pressures. He addressed these through bursaries, part-time work, budgeting, support networks, and using university resources. His resilience allowed him to excel despite the challenges.
Value of TVET Education
He believes the NCV Tourism programme offered strong practical foundations, equipping him with industry aligned skills. Although he would have chosen a NATED programme had he known it was more suited to matriculants, he acknowledges that the NCV route strengthened his passion and laid the groundwork for his academic achievements.
Advice to Students
Mr Madlwabinga encourages students to:
- Build strong networks
- Develop transferable skills
- Stay informed about industry and technological trends
- Embrace experiential learning
- Remain resilient, adaptable, and committed to growth
Future Plans
Over the next five to ten years, he aims to pursue a PhD in Tourism Management, publish academic research, contribute to student development, and support institutional growth through collaborative projects.
Closing Message
He concludes: “One’s circumstances or past should not dictate their future. People should always remain humble.”
We wish Mr Madlwabinga well in his future endeavours.