Bux is Best!

BY: .

High achiever Ms Rakheeba Bux describes her experience at UKZN as ’transformative’, providing her the academic grounding and creative freedom to explore being and becoming, not only as a scholar but someone committed to care, reflection and social contribution. 

Bux, who won the UKZN Doctoral Research Scholarship, is currently studying towards a PhD in Education. Her thesis is titled: ‘Playing with Power! An Autoethnographic Study of Becoming a Female Postgraduate Mentor in a University Setting’. “Being part of a community like UKZN that values mentorship, collaboration and growth has made my UKZN journey incredibly rewarding,” she said. 

Bux is also a staff member and works as a First-Year Experience (FYE) co-ordinator and postgraduate mentor. The FYE programme is a year-long, holistic, University-wide initiative designed to support students’ transition to university. Bux feels privileged to support students in navigating their academic transitions and hopes to continue fostering environments where students feel seen, supported and valued. 

Never losing focus on her goals, Bux has overcome personal challenges and strengthened her commitment to learning and contributing meaningfully to the academic space. “One of my highlights has been presenting my work at national platforms, which gave me the chance to share my insights, learn from others and grow in confidence. These experiences have reminded me of the value of my voice in academic spaces and the importance of continuing to show up with purpose,” she said. 

After her PhD, she plans to publish her research extensively and pursue postdoctoral opportunities, aspiring to engage in transdisciplinary research that intersects education, gender studies and leadership to influence policy and practice in Higher Education. 

A career in academia seems a natural fit for her. She is deeply grateful to her PhD supervisor, Professor Daisy Pillay, who has been a guiding force in her journey since 2020. “Professor Pillay’s mentorship has shaped not only my academic work but also how I see myself in scholarly spaces. I also thank Professor Ruth Hoskins and Dr Sharmla Rama of the Office of the Dean of Teaching and Learning for their consistent support and for creating meaningful opportunities for me to grow in my role as an FYE co-ordinator and mentor. Their encouragement has allowed me to thrive,” said Bux. 

Her family’s belief in her abilities has always provided her with strength and encouragement and helped her overcome every challenge. “I am deeply honoured and grateful to the scholarship committee for selecting me. Your recognition not only motivates me but also affirms the value of my efforts and aspirations.” 

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu