Challenges Make You Stronger - Denis E. Hurley Scholarship Recipients

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Three College of Humanities students won Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarships.

They are: Ms Phindile Dubazane, Ms Senamile Mabaso and Ms Sphelelo Mkhasibe, who are all pursuing honours degrees.

From the moment Dubazane set foot on campus, she was inspired by UKZN’s rich diversity, vibrant intellectual culture and its commitment to excellence and social justice. These attributes framed her experience at UKZN, making it transformative both academically and personally. 

As the recipient of the Archbishop Denis E Hurley Scholarship, Dubazane feels extremely privileged to receive this support and is motivated by the belief placed in her by the Scholarships Committee. “I am honoured to be part of this esteemed group of scholars and to have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the academic and community development space, in the spirit of Archbishop Hurley’s legacy.” 

Dubazane looks forward to using the award to further her educational journey and amplify her impact, fostering a generation of innovative thinkers and ethical leaders. “This is something that UKZN does so well amongst its students, and I want to be able to do the same. I have been inspired by lecturers who are not only knowledgeable but deeply passionate about shaping future leaders. Their encouragement and mentorship have pushed me to stretch beyond my comfort zone and believe in my potential.” 

Currently studying towards a Bachelor of Education Honours in Technology Education, the full-time postgraduate student says she has always been driven by a deep curiosity and a love for learning, especially in the sciences. “I believe that education is not just a path to personal success, but a powerful tool to uplift others, particularly in communities like mine where access to quality education remains a challenge.” 

Pushed by the need to make a difference in the lives of others through education, Dubazane’s academic journey has been a mix of determination, growth, and resilience. Always having to navigate financial constraints and uncertainty about fees weighed heavily on her but Dubazane says that those moments also helped shape her character. “I learned to work harder, stay focused, and seek opportunities like bursaries and part-time jobs. Achieving this bursary relieves the financial pressure on me.” 

Although she has always achieved well academically and earned recognition from the College of Humanities, she says receiving the scholarship stands out as both an academic milestone and a symbol of how far she has come despite the odds. 

Beyond academics, Dubazane takes pride in giving back by tutoring peers, getting involved in campus activities, and contributing to a culture of learning and support. “I know that success is not just about individual achievement but also about the impact you make along the way.” 

She intends to do a master’s and eventually a PhD in Technology Education, with a research focus on leveraging technology to advance sustainable and inclusive education in South Africa. “Through my work, I hope to contribute to policies and practices that empower disadvantaged communities, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge rather than a barrier to quality education.” 

Integrating education, innovation, and sustainable development is her ultimate career goal and she hopes to work with educational institutions like UKZN as a lecturer to implement innovative teaching methodologies that equip students with 21st-century skills. “My vision is to bridge the digital divide by developing educational programmes and resources that empower disadvantaged communities. Additionally, I see myself playing an active role in community engagement initiatives, training educators and students in digital literacy, coding, and innovative problem-solving techniques.” 

Dubazane credits both her family and her UKZN family on the Edgewood campus for their continuous support and encouragement. “They pushed and motivated me when times were tough. Graduating from UKZN means more than just receiving a degree, it’s about becoming a change-maker in society. I walk with pride and humility and will always be ready to uplift others,” she said. 

Mabaso is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Psychology. 

Committed to both personal and academic excellence, she has been a model student, graduating with Dean’s Commendations during her undergraduate years which contributed to her being awarded the UKZN Postgraduate Scholarship to pursue honours in 2021. 

With this scholarship, Mabaso was able to register for her Honours degree in Criminology and Forensic Studies, which she completed in May 2022. However, this was bittersweet, despite being able to walk the Graduation stage, she was unable to obtain her honours certificate due to outstanding fees. “This was an emotionally complex moment, filled with pride in my academic achievement, but also the weight of unresolved financial constraints that placed my academic journey on hold,” Mabaso said. 

As a testament to her character and her commitment to lifelong learning Mabaso remained focused and in 2025 managed to pay a portion of the outstanding balance and the required registration fee, which allowed her to resume her studies. 

Back on track, she is now pursuing a second Honours degree in Psychology. “Receiving the Archbishop Denis E Hurley Scholarship Award was a godsend that cleared the remainder of my outstanding fees, allowing me to finally receive my first honours certificate. That moment, delayed but deeply earned, was a powerful reminder of the value of perseverance and faith,” said Mabaso. 

Despite the challenges, Mabaso has thrived at UKZN, maintaining her strong academic performance while actively contributing to the University community. “I have served as a tutor and currently serve as a mentor, helping to support and guide other students on their academic journeys. These roles have allowed me to grow as a leader and contribute to student life in a meaningful way.” 

Focused on her future Mabaso aims to pursue a Master’s degree in Psychology while continuing to volunteer in spaces that are meaningful to her. Passionate about understanding complex mental health issues, she is committed to gaining advanced theoretical knowledge and practical training in clinical work, to contribute meaningfully to both individual and community well-being. “Coming from an underserved community myself, I am personally driven to use my education to deliver effective, culturally sensitive care.” Being able to address systemic and contextual factors affecting mental health in South Africa is paramount to Mabaso, who ultimately aims to become a registered clinical psychologist. 

“Receiving this scholarship is a recognition of my potential and a renewed motivation to continue striving for excellence. I now carry my academic journey not only as a personal achievement, but also as a foundation from which I hope to uplift others navigating similar paths,” she said. 

Mabaso says although it felt like it at times, she was never alone in this journey. Giving thanks to the scholarship donors and the lecturers and mentors she found at UKZN, she said: “I enjoy your generosity with deep gratitude. Your support has not only eased my financial burden but also strengthened my determination to succeed and give back.” She also gives thanks to her family and friends for their unwavering belief in her, especially when things felt uncertain. 

UKZN has been a growth experience for her and has shaped not only her academic path but the person she has become. Beyond academics, UKZN gave her space to lead, serve and connect, helping her find her voice, build confidence and serve others. 

“UKZN did not just educate me, it empowered me, stretched me and reminded me that I belong in spaces I once doubted were for people like me.” 

Mkhasibe is currently studying towards her Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Criminology and Forensic Studies. 

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu