Follow local teams, match results, fixtures, and breaking sports news from Bizana and across the Eastern Cape — all in one place.
A Durban University of Technology student from Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape has been recognised for leadership and sportsmanship at the university.
Mihlali Mzilwa, a BHSc in Diagnostic Radiography student, currently serves as chairperson of the Durban University of Technology hockey committee and recently received a Sportsmanship Award Gold.
What happened?
Durban University of Technology featured Mihlali Mzilwa as part of its #WomanCrushWednesday recognition, highlighting her role as a student leader and athlete.
Mzilwa was born in Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape and is studying Diagnostic Radiography at the university.
Alongside her academic work, she serves in leadership positions on campus, including:
- Chairperson of the DUT Hockey Committee
- Member of a residence house committee
- Defender in the DUT hockey team
Her role on the hockey team includes playing sweeper or centre back, helping defend goals and distribute the ball during matches.
Why it matters to you
Students from rural Eastern Cape communities often leave home to study at universities across South Africa.
Stories like Mihlali Mzilwa’s show how students can build leadership experience through:
- University sports
- Student governance structures
- Residence leadership roles
These opportunities can help students develop teamwork, management skills, and national sporting exposure.
Mzilwa also represented the university at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament in Stellenbosch in 2025, gaining national-level competition experience.
What you need to know
| Topic | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Student | Mihlali Mzilwa |
| Hometown | Mount Ayliff, Eastern Cape |
| University | Durban University of Technology |
| Degree | BHSc Diagnostic Radiography |
| Sports role | DUT Hockey Committee Chairperson |
| Playing position | Sweeper / centre back |
| National exposure | USSA tournament, Stellenbosch (2025) |
- Mzilwa first started playing hockey in primary school.
- She returned to the sport when joining DUT in 2024.
- Sport helps her balance academics, leadership duties and personal growth.
What you should do next
Students interested in leadership or sport at university can:
- Join university sports clubs early in their studies
- Participate in residence or student committees
- Use sport to build teamwork and leadership skills
- Seek opportunities to represent their university in national tournaments
Mzilwa advises students to remain proactive and committed while contributing positively to their communities.
Where to get help or information
Students looking for similar opportunities can check:
- Their university student sport office
- Residence leadership programmes
- University Sports South Africa (USSA) events
- Campus student leadership committees
You can also explore related coverage in the Education and Local Eastern Cape News sections of Pondoland Times.
Get practical updates that affect your household and community. Subscribe to the Pondoland Times newsletter.
DON’T MISS IMPORTANT DEADLINES AND PAYMENTS
Get clear updates on SASSA, applications, funding and local opportunities — including how to fix common issues and avoid delays.
