ALUMNI & STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

TOP ACHIEVER SPOTLIGHT – CLASS OF 2025

As we celebrate the Top Achievers of the Port Elizabeth TVET College Class of 2025, we honour more than academic achievement. We celebrate the determination, sacrifices, resilience and hard work that made these accomplishments possible.

Every graduate has a unique story to tell. Behind every qualification are challenges overcome, early mornings, long nights, personal responsibilities and moments when giving up may have seemed easier than carrying on.

Yet, our top achievers chose to persevere.

Today, we shine the spotlight on Simthembile Gcaza, a graduate whose journey is a powerful reminder that success is possible when commitment, discipline and determination become part of the journey.

Simthembile completed her Level 4 Office Administration qualification at Dower Campus and is currently furthering her studies in Public Management at Dower Campus.

Her story reflects the resilience, determination and perseverance of a student who overcame academic setbacks and financial challenges, remained committed to her studies, and ultimately achieved her qualification despite the obstacles she faced.

What challenges did you face during your time at the College, and how did you overcome them?

At first, everything went well with my studies. I passed all my modules at Level 2 and Level 3. However, when I reached Level 4, I faced some challenges. I told myself, “I’ve got this,” but I soon realised that I needed to put in more effort. I had to repeat two modules: Mathematical Literacy and Office Data Processing.

At first, I thought it was just a minor setback, but I learned an important lesson. I realised that I needed to attend my classes consistently, pay attention and take my studies seriously. In the end, I persevered and passed the modules.

I also faced financial challenges. I received academic funding, but I was not funded for transport. Although I qualified for transport assistance, limited resources meant that I did not receive this support. As a result, it was not always possible for me to attend classes every day. Despite these difficulties, I continued doing my best, and I eventually succeeded.

2. What are your plans? Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

My goal is to secure employment in either the government or private sector and to further my studies by pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Public Management.

3. What advice or words of encouragement would you like to share with current students and young people who are considering applying to a TVET College?

Being a student is not always easy. My advice is to make time to study every day, even if it is only for 30 minutes per subject. Do not allow financial difficulties to determine your future, and never give up. In the end, your qualification can open doors to opportunities.

I know how difficult it can be to go to college when you do not know where your next bus fare will come from, while still having to focus on your studies. But have faith in yourself, remain committed and study hard. Education can help you change your circumstances and create a better future for yourself.

4. Why did you choose a TVET College as your place of study, and how has your experience at the College contributed to your success?

I wanted a better future for myself, and I qualified to study at a TVET College. I have always been good at Business Studies, which is one of the reasons I chose Port Elizabeth TVET College, Dower Campus.

Despite the difficulties I experienced, I had a very beautiful and rewarding experience at Dower Campus. I gained valuable knowledge and many skills that have contributed to my personal growth and prepared me for my future career.

5. Heritage Month: As we celebrate Heritage Month, what does your heritage mean to you, and how has your background, culture or community influenced the person you have become today?

I am the person I am today because of the support and guidance I received from my family, my siblings and my lecturers. To me, my heritage represents strength, respect and Ubuntu.

I am proud to be part of the Xhosa community. In our culture, we are taught to respect our elders, work hard and help one another, even when we have very little. These values have played an important role in shaping who I am.

Growing up with financial difficulties taught me resilience and never to give up. My parents taught me to strive to become a better person and to be a positive example to others. My community taught me that education can be a powerful way to change your circumstances.

That is why, even when I had to repeat modules and struggled with transport, I kept going. My heritage taught me resilience, perseverance and the importance of never giving up on my dreams.

Simthembile Gcaza obtained an overall 85% in Office Administration L4

TOP ACHIEVER SPOTLIGHT – CLASS OF 2025

Today, we shine the spotlight on Zachary Ramasammy-Cook, a graduate whose journey is a powerful reminder that success is possible when commitment, discipline and determination become part of the journey.

Zachary completed his ND: Tourism at Russell Road Campus and is currently furthering his studies through an online course in Property Management.

His story reflects the determination, self-motivation and forward-thinking mindset of a student who remained focused on his goals, recognised the importance of making the most of opportunities, and continues to invest in his education and future.

What challenges did you face during your time at the College, and how did you overcome them?

I encountered challenges during my time at college, but I understand that many of my peers faced difficulties that were far more significant than mine. However, I did come to realise that maintaining motivation can often be one of the biggest hurdles when it comes to studying.

My advice is simple: do not give up. Remind yourself every day why you started and why you are there. Write down every reason you can think of for wanting a better future and allow those reasons to motivate you to keep going. Most importantly, think big and believe in what you can achieve.

What are your plans? Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

The truth is that the future will always be uncertain. However, if you make the most of the opportunities that come your way, remain open to learning and continue working towards your goals, you are giving yourself the opportunity to build a bright future.

What advice or words of encouragement would you like to share with current students and young people who are considering applying to a TVET College?

There are three pieces of advice I would like to share.

First, listen actively in class. Make sure you get enough rest the night before so that you are alert and able to focus during lectures.

Second, do not worry about making friends. When people recognise your value, friendships will naturally follow. Choose the people you surround yourself with wisely and make sure they contribute positively to your journey.

Third, stand up for your fellow students whenever you can. Do not allow others to be taken advantage of or treated unfairly. We are stronger when we support one another.

Why did you choose a TVET College as your place of study, and how has your experience at the College contributed to your success?

I chose Port Elizabeth TVET College as my place of study because of the strong reputation it had built over the years, and I value the experience I had there.

The College has unique and historic campuses, dedicated lecturers who genuinely care about their students, and students who are determined to improve their circumstances and build better futures for themselves. These aspects made my experience meaningful, and I will never regret choosing Port Elizabeth TVET College as part of my educational journey.

Heritage Month: As we celebrate Heritage Month, what does your heritage mean to you, and how has your background, culture or community influenced the person you have become today?

My heritage is a unique part of who I am. While I come from both a Coloured and Indian background, I have not always felt that I completely belonged to either cultural community, and for that reason, I would rather not comment extensively on my personal experience.

However, I believe that everyone should take the time to understand and appreciate their heritage. To those who identify with a particular family, clan, community, tribe or nation, I encourage you to learn your history, uphold your values and participate meaningfully in your traditions.

Above all, we should promote goodness, kindness and respect within ourselves and towards others, regardless of where we come from or how difficult life may become.

Zachary Ramasammy-Cook obtained an overall 80,7% in Tourism

TOP ACHIEVER SPOTLIGHT – CLASS OF 2025

As we celebrate the Top Achievers of the Port Elizabeth TVET College Class of 2025, we honour more than academic achievement. We celebrate the determination, sacrifices, resilience, and hard work that made these accomplishments possible.

Every graduate has a unique story to tell. Behind every qualification are challenges overcome, early mornings, long nights, personal responsibilities, and moments when giving up may have seemed easier than carrying on. Yet, our top achievers chose to persevere.

Today, we highlight Nokuthula Maru, a graduate whose journey is a powerful reminder that success is attainable when commitment, discipline, and determination are integral to the process.

Nokuthula completed her ND: Public Management at the Dower Campus and has since progressed into the workplace, where she is currently employed by the Department of Home Affairs at Baywest Mall.

Her story reflects the strength of a student who successfully balanced her studies, work and motherhood while remaining committed to achieving her qualification.

1. What challenges did you face during your time at the College, and how did you overcome them?

One of the main challenges I faced during my time at the College was balancing my academic workload, my job and being a mother. At times, it was difficult to manage deadlines and keep up with all my responsibilities.

I overcame these challenges by improving my time-management skills and creating a structured study schedule. There were mornings when I had to wake up at 2:00 a.m. and study for at least three hours before going to work. I also learned to break larger tasks into smaller, manageable ones and to ask my lecturers for assistance whenever I needed clarification.

This experience taught me to be more organised, disciplined, and confident when facing challenges.

2. What are your plans? Where do you see yourself in the next few years?

I hope to continue growing professionally and eventually move into a position where I can make a greater contribution to my department and assist in achieving its objectives.

3. What advice or words of encouragement would you like to share with current students and young people who are considering applying to a TVET College?

To all students who are considering studying at a TVET College, I would say: believe in yourself and believe in the skills you are learning.

Your journey may not always be easy, but every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay focused, work hard, ask questions, learn from your mistakes, and, most importantly, never give up on your dreams. Keep going, even when the journey becomes difficult.

4. Why did you choose a TVET College as your place of study, and how has your experience at the College contributed to your success?

I chose a TVET College because I prefer practical learning rather than spending too much time learning only from books. I wanted to gain knowledge and skills that I could apply to real-life situations while building a strong foundation for my career.

My experience at Port Elizabeth TVET College equipped me with knowledge, confidence, and skills that have contributed to my personal and professional growth.

5. Heritage Month: As we celebrate Heritage Month, what does your heritage mean to you, and how has your background, culture or community influenced the person you have become today?

Heritage means celebrating and appreciating the culture, traditions, history and values that make me who I am. For me, it is a time to be proud of my background and to recognise how it has shaped the person I have become.

My heritage has influenced the way I see the world, the values I hold and the way I treat other people. My family and community have taught me the importance of respect, unity, hard work and supporting one another.

Heritage Month reminds me that my background is an important part of who I am. It has given me a stronger sense of belonging and has helped shape the values that continue to guide me in both my personal and professional life.

Nokuthula Maru obtained an overall 85.67% in Public Management

MANDILIVE TWALO

VUYILE MBUSI

Port Elizabeth TVET College proudly highlights the journey of one of its students, Mr Vuyile Mbusi, an NCV Level 2 Tourism student at Russell Road Campus, who is also an active pageant winner.

Mr Vuyile Mbusi is a 22-year-old resident of New Brighton in Gqeberha. He is described as a driven and passionate individual with a strong interest in modelling. His hobbies include listening to music, dancing, and participating in sports.

He began his modelling career with Refine & Render Agent and Modelling, motivated by a desire to use his voice to inspire and uplift others, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment and mental health awareness.

Mr Mbusi was recently crowned 1st Runner-up and has been selected to represent South Africa at the Mister Heritage International competition in the Philippines, 19 – 26 May 2026. This marks his first opportunity to represent the country on an international stage, an achievement he regards with great honour and gratitude.

He chose to enrol at the College as part of his commitment to improving his life after experiencing previous setbacks. He believes that his Tourism course aligns with his passion for connecting people and cultures. Although he encountered challenges with academic processes and funding, he has overcome them.

Mr Mbusi has encouraged the public to support him by voting for him in the Mister Heritage International competition and by following his social media platforms, including his Facebook page (Vuyile Khaya Mbusi) and Instagram account (Vuyile Mbusi).

He encourages fellow and prospective students to believe in themselves and to embrace every opportunity that comes their way, emphasising that self-belief is key to success.

Port Elizabeth TVET College thanks Mr Mbusi for sharing his experience and wishes him continued success in his future endeavours.

NOMZAMO STEVEN

Port Elizabeth TVET College proudly highlights the inspiring journey of one of its previous students, Nomzamo Steven, the founder of Zamo Legacy Enterprises (Pty) Ltd, Zamo Rising Stars International Academy, and Mzansi Bread Bakery.

Nomzamo Steven is an entrepreneur based in Gqeberha, South Africa. She is the founder of Zamo Legacy Enterprises (Pty) Ltd, Zamo Rising Stars International Academy, and Mzansi Bread Bakery.

She studied NCV Level Hospitality at Port Elizabeth TVET College, Russell Road Campus. Although she was unable to complete her studies due to financial constraints, her time at the College played a significant role in shaping her career path.

Her experience at the College was valuable and insightful, providing her with a strong foundation in hospitality and exposure to the industry. She was motivated to pursue this field due to her passion for service, working with people, and creating meaningful experiences.

During her studies, she developed essential skills such as discipline, customer service, communication, teamwork and professionalism, all of which continue to guide her in her career. She also credits several lecturers for their encouragement and for helping her believe in her potential.

Despite facing financial challenges that prevented her from completing her qualification, she remained determined and continued to learn through practical work experience and industry exposure.

After leaving the College, she entered the hospitality industry and worked as a waitress, where she gained valuable hands-on experience and built her confidence. She further enhanced her skills through practical training opportunities, including international experience in Germany, which contributed significantly to her professional growth.

Nomzamo Steven currently manages multiple initiatives, including Mzansi Bread Bakery and Zamo Rising Stars International Academy. Through these platforms, she focuses on empowering young people with hospitality skills, service excellence and confidence.

Her entrepreneurial journey was inspired by her own experiences and the challenges she observed among young people who lack access to opportunities. This motivated her to create initiatives that support and uplift others.

Although she did not complete her studies, her time at the College provided a solid foundation and industry exposure that helped shape her entrepreneurial journey.

She is also the author of Service to Success – Waitron Training Manual for South African Youth, a resource aimed at equipping young people with practical knowledge, confidence and skills required in the hospitality sector.

In addition, she runs Mzansi Bread Bakery and, in 2025, she achieved 5th place in the Standard Bank Entrepreneurship Competition, a notable recognition of her business efforts.

In her view, TVET Colleges play a critical role in South Africa by offering practical, hands-on training that prepares students for real workplace environments and contributes significantly to skills development.

Her advice to current students is to start where they are, use the resources available to them, and remain committed to continuous learning. She emphasises that success does not require a perfect journey, but rather resilience, consistency and self-belief.

Nomzamo Steven’s journey demonstrates that determination and perseverance can lead to meaningful success. Despite facing challenges, she has built impactful initiatives that not only support her own growth but also create opportunities for others. Her story serves as an inspiration to students and aspiring entrepreneurs across South Africa.

BUHLE-BEMVELO MBONTSI

Port Elizabeth TVET College proudly highlights the inspiring journey of one of its alumni, Buhle-Bemvelo Mbontsi, a passionate entrepreneur and founder of the food business EatWithMe.

Buhle-Bemvelo Mbontsi is originally from Lady Frere, Tshatshu Village. She grew up in Uitenhage and is currently based in Mthatha. She completed a Diploma in Hospitality and Catering in 2019 at Port Elizabeth TVET College, Russell Road Campus.

During her time at the college, she gained valuable knowledge, practical skills, and discipline that later helped shape her career and entrepreneurial journey. Her passion for food and creating meals that bring people together inspired her to pursue studies in the hospitality field.

While studying, she developed important skills such as time management, teamwork, creativity, consistency, and professionalism, all of which are essential in the food industry. Supportive lecturers also played an important role in her journey by encouraging students to believe in their abilities and work hard towards their goals.

Like many students, she experienced challenges during her studies. However, she remained focused and determined, reminding herself of her goals and working hard to achieve them. After completing her studies, Buhle-Bemvelo continued to develop her culinary skills and explore opportunities in the food industry. Her passion for cooking eventually led her to start her own business called EatWithMe, where she prepares homemade meals and food products such as sauces and other delicious items for her customers. Starting the business came with challenges, including limited resources, building a customer base, and marketing her products. Through dedication, hard work, and consistent promotion of her brand, she has continued to grow and improve her business.

According to Buhle-Bemvelo, studying at a TVET college provides students with practical, career-focused education and hands-on experience, which prepares them for both employment and entrepreneurship.

She encourages current students to believe in themselves, remain dedicated, and never stop learning. While starting a business can be challenging, passion, consistency, and perseverance can open many opportunities, such as networking with other entrepreneurs and gaining valuable skills through experience.

“If you remain passionate about what you do and stay committed to your goals, success will follow.”

ALUMNI & STUDENT SPOTLIGHT