Masters student, Mr Sanele Gamede together with the College of Humanities at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Howard College hosted a compelling 1^st Annual Life after Graduation seminar on the 27^th of September.

Graduates from far and wide took part in the seminar which focused on the future that awaits.

Various keynote speakers shared the stage and took turns to motivate the graduates. The speakers included Gamede (who is also a educational motivational speaker) Ms Zola Myeza (Gagasi FM DJ), Mr Ntokozo Hlongwane (motivational speaker), Mr Brian Gwamanda (poet), Mr Sibusiso Mbele (motivational speaker), Amawele aseChesterville (comedians) and Ms Thibedi Nyalleng (Uzalo actress).

Each exuding a magnetic aura and imparting wisdom, the speakers gripped audience members with their pearls of wisdom leaving them empowered and geared for success.

Expressing gratitude to UKZN and Ilada Holdings for an exhibit of such stature, student Mr Khanya Nomnganga said: ‘It was great, what interested me were the topical issues that relate to me because I also want to be an entrepreneur. They brought good guests, they should do a follow up on people who attended and create a “community” of these motivators.’

Student Ms Aneliswa Mkhize added: ‘It maintained its purpose, it was motivational and inspirational. Through the guests they brought, I learnt that climbing the ladder of success is not easy.’

A graduate from Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Ms Smangele Mkwanaju, said, ‘It helped to hear about the challenges other people face, this gave me comfort to know that I am not the only one.’

Representatives from Standard Bank and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) gave tips on how to thrive in a changing economy.

Gamede thanked God for giving him the innate ability to serve as a change agent in people’s lives.  Further gratitude was extended to the Ilada Holdings team, the acting DVC of the College of Humanities, Professor Stephan Mutula and the College’s public relations team.

All the speakers and exhibitors were also acknowledged. Key sponsors, UKZN and the eThekwini Municipality were also mentioned in Gamede’s vote of thanks. Radio stations like Izwi Lomzansi FM, Highway Radio FM, Inanda FM, Gagasi FM, Massive Metro, Ukhozi FM, and SABC’s Morning Live and everyone who was instrumental in making the event a success were also praised.

‘I have learnt from other speakers that commitment is key. The support and respect they showed to me and my guests strikes my heart to this day. The event was a success and I had students coming from neighbouring colleges and universities which showed that they believed in the idea. I am looking forward to the 2nd Annual Life After Graduation Seminar,’ he said.