From Village Roots to Academic Heights, UNIVEN Student Shines

Malwandla Khosa’s remarkable journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and determination. Born in Olifantshoek Village, outside Elim. Malwandla has emerged as a shining example of what it means to make use of knowledge, challenge societal norms, and make a meaningful impact. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Youth in Development and currently pursuing her masters degree, Malwandla is gaining practical experience as an intern at the Department of Youth in Development, University of Venda (UNIVEN).
As we celebrate Women’s Month, Malwandla’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empowering women and girls in our society. As she pursues her academic and professional goals, Malwandla’s story highlights the impact that dedicated women can have in their communities, inspiring others to strive for excellence and challenge the status quo. Her message to young girls and women is one of empowerment: “Dream big, work hard to make your dreams a reality, while trusting in God. Don’t let negative thoughts hold you back.” This message is particularly relevant in the context of Women’s Month, which highlights the progress made towards gender equality while also acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.
Her research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of internships in developing employability skills for graduates, aiming to guide policymakers and institutions to improve internship programmes. This work is crucial in addressing graduate unemployment in communities. As a woman in academia, Malwandla acknowledges the challenges women face, including gender-based violence and societal expectations. However, she remains steadfast in her conviction that women are capable, strong, and have the power to lead and make difference. She draws inspiration from Shudufhadzo Musida, Miss South Africa 2020, who advocates for mental health awareness and challenges societal norms.
Through her work and achievements, Malwandla hopes to inspire others, demonstrating that with hard work, education, and perseverance, young people can overcome challenges and make a positive impact. The University of Venda, with its emphasis on student-centeredness and research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, provides a nurturing environment for students like Malwandla to thrive.

Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811