The second-year Bachelor of Development Studies student is a poet, opera singer, motivational speaker and advocate for mental health and quality education. An aspiring town planner, Ms Ndlovu believes that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances.
Her name, Bohlari, means wisdom, a value she strives to embody in both her academic and personal life. “I am working tirelessly to follow it,” she says.
Her passion for the performing arts recently earned her a place on one of UMP's most significant stages when she was selected to prepare and perform a poem in honour of Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa during her formal inauguration as UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
Instead of presenting a conventional tribute, Ms Ndlovu carefully researched Professor Meyiwa's academic journey, leadership philosophy and commitment to human development and social justice.
“I knew that a momentous occasion like this required more than just a generic tribute. It demanded something that truly captured the unique spirit and weight of her leadership,” she says.
Although she initially felt nervous, the positive response to her performance gave her renewed confidence.
“For me, that moment healed the inner child in me that never thought my talent would put me on bigger stages like that,” she reflects, noting that the experience also reinforced the importance of preparation.
“There is a profound difference between feeling nervous and feeling unprepared. Because I had grounded myself so deeply in the preparation process, studying Professor Meyiwa's vision and listening to the campus community, I had a solid foundation to stand on,” she says.
Pursuing Her First Love
Her love for the performing arts began long before she arrived at UMP. In 2025, she successfully auditioned for the UMP Choir as a first-year student, combining her passion for opera with her commitment to campus life.
For Ms Ndlovu, every opportunity comes with a responsibility to represent herself and UMP with pride.
Ms Ndlovu is also an active member of the UMP Debate Society and the UMP Models Society, where she currently serves as Miss University of Mpumalanga Queen 2026.
Through this role, she hopes to encourage fellow students, particularly young women, to believe in themselves and pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zones.
“For me, it is about empowering and enriching students on campus, especially women, to firmly believe in themselves and to form a sisterhood that allows them to dream beyond their comfort zone.”
Ms Ndlovu credits her family with helping her develop the confidence to pursue her interests. From primary school through to high school, her parents and sisters encouraged her to participate in debates, speeches, poetry competitions and other extracurricular activities. Her father, who is partially sighted, taught her valuable lessons about courage and self-expression.
“He relentlessly taught me my clan names and would encourage me to perform at our family events and ceremonies. That taught me the skill of articulation and courage, and I am grateful for that,” she says.
Academia Meets Entertainment
Her academic journey at UMP has also been one of growth. While adjusting to university life initially felt overwhelming, she quickly recognised the importance of discipline and effective time management.
“I believe entertainment actually helps my academics because it keeps me motivated and gives me a way to relieve stress,” she says.
Her talents have also created opportunities beyond the university. She regularly receives bookings for poetry performances, motivational speaking engagements and Master of Ceremonies duties, providing her with an additional source of income.
As Miss University of Mpumalanga Queen 2026, she also participates in events that encourage young girls to pursue their ambitions and draw inspiration from people who have overcome challenges.
For Ms Ndlovu, every opportunity comes with a responsibility to represent herself and UMP with pride.
As South Africa celebrates Women's Month, her story highlights the importance of creating spaces where young women can discover their voices, develop their talents and use their abilities to contribute meaningfully to society.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.