From Lens to Legacy: A DUT Alumnus’s Journey of Inspiration and Community Empowerment

Khulasande Tshayile, a distinguished alumnus of the Durban University of Technology (DUT), exemplifies the institution’s commitment to cultivating innovative and adaptable graduates. His narrative reflects DUT’s objective of promoting creativity, innovation, and significant contributions to society.

Recently, Tshayile expressed his enthusiasm for photography and community advancement through an uplifting exhibition titled Impilo Yasemakhaya held at Shumayela Secondary School in Umlazi Township. Designed for Grade 12 learners, this event epitomized Tshayile’s devotion to community service and empowering the youth while presenting photographs captured in Ntabankulu’s uMnceba village in the Eastern Cape.

Having been born and brought up in Ntabankulu uMnceba village in the Eastern Cape, Tshayile’s formative years significantly shaped his artistic perspective. After pursuing Photography at DUT’s ML Sultan Campus, where he obtained his initial degree, he founded his own enterprise, Tshayile Media. Through his endeavors, he has continuously showcased a passion for capturing and safeguarding cultural stories.

The theme of this exhibition, Capturing Cultural Threads Impilo Yasemakhaya, represents Tshayile’s commitment to highlighting the rich cultural heritage and traditions of his community. “I selected this title to illustrate the intertwined narratives that characterize my people and their lifestyle,” Tshayile remarked. “These cultural threads are crucial for comprehending our identity, and through my art, I strive to preserve and honor them.”

This is not Tshayile’s inaugural exhibition. The prior year, in 2024, he presented his first event at the Mission Community Hall situated in the uMnceba area of Ntabankulu, Eastern Cape. This event also achieved substantial success, focusing on motivating learners and aiding them with their university applications. Impressively, through their diligent efforts, five learners from that community were successfully admitted to universities. This exhibition received sponsorship from the National Arts Council.

Tshayile conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the uMlazi exhibition, highlighting that it signified more than merely a display of his artistry. “This exhibition embodies giving back to the community. It’s about inspiring and educating learners regarding their culture, the significance of artistic expression, and the necessity of utilizing their skills to attain success. We also offered assistance with university applications to aid them in progressing in their educational path.”

The event was further enhanced by the participation of Michael Zulu from DUT’s Student Recruitment Unit, who addressed the learners, underscoring the significance of education and aiming for excellence. Zulu acquainted them with the diverse courses available within DUT’s Faculty of Arts and Design, along with other faculties, articulating the entry criteria and opportunities accessible. He urged the learners to commit themselves to their studies, reminding them that diligence and commendable results could secure their admission to the university.

The learners exhibited visible inspiration from the exhibition and the support they received. Lusanda Ntshangase, a Grade 12 learner from Shumayela Secondary School, articulated her appreciation, stating, “I am immensely thankful for this opportunity. It has broadened my perspective, and I now have a clear vision of what I want to pursue after matric.” She conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to Tshayile for choosing their school for such a transformative opportunity.

The principal of the school also expressed his excitement, commending Tshayile and DUT for their contributions in making the day productive and significant. “This exhibition has not only motivated our learners but has also reiterated the significance of linking education with culture and creativity,” he commented.

Looking to the future, Tshayile plans to return the exhibition to Ntabankulu in the Eastern Cape to host this impactful event once more this year, continuing his partnership with the National Arts Council. His steadfast commitment to uplifting his community and empowering youth through art, education, and cultural preservation continues to inspire and create an enduring impact on his community and beyond. Such exhibitions also encourage the youth to contemplate photography as a degree at university.

Pictured: Khulasande Tshayile, members of Tshayile Media, Michael Zulu from DUT’s Student Recruitment unit, and Grade 12 learners of Shumayela Secondary School.

Pictured: Khulasande Tshayile alongside the learners from Shumayela Secondary School.

Photography: Tshayile Media

Sinamile Sithole