She previously also graduated cum laude in the Diploma in Nature Conservation (DNC61) and credits the FYE Mentorship Programme for helping her stay focused and develop the leadership skills essential for postgraduate study.
Her commitment was soon recognised when she was appointed as a First-Year Experience mentor – a role that provided a monthly stipend and allowed her to support and empower fellow students.
“Taking the role of mentoring first years helped me in more ways than I can count. It supported me financially, but more importantly, it built my confidence,” she says.
Ms Motseo excelled academically in the Advanced Diploma, earning distinctions in three of her four modules and achieving an overall average of 76%. Her consistent class attendance, willingness to ask for help, and disciplined study habits all contributed to her success. Originally from a rural area where gathering firewood and fetching water was part of everyday life, her respect for nature was shaped by her lived experience.
“Growing up in an environment where we depended on natural resources helped me understand their value and vulnerability,” she explains.
“That inspired me to pursue Nature Conservation as a career so I could protect and preserve what sustains us.” She says mentoring also enhanced her ability to present research, engage with lecturers, and support her peers.
“Being part of a mentor network across faculties helped me grow as a leader,” she adds. “What helped me most was being honest with myself. If I didn’t understand a topic, I asked questions. I studied consistently, consulted lecturers, and made sure I didn’t fall behind.”
Beyond her academic achievements, Ms Motseo played a key support role for other students – providing informal tutoring, helping peers navigate campus resources, and serving as a trusted confidante.
“There were students who opened up about their struggles, and I was happy to be there for them. I saw myself not just as a mentor, but as someone who could make others feel less alone in their journey.”
Ms Motseo began her studies at the University of Mpumalanga in 2021. To support herself, she made use of institutional support services such as the food parcel programme and encouraged financial discipline among her peers.
“If you’re on NSFAS, save. You don’t know when you’ll need it. It helped me pay for my registration and accommodation when I had no other option.”
Professor Mduduzi Ndlovu, Programme Leader for Nature Conservation, commended her rare achievement:
“The last time I signed off a cum laude graduate in the Nature Conservation programmes across Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma was five years ago. Motseo’s achievement reignites the belief that excellence is possible, even in demanding programmes.”
Ms Motseo’s story reflects a powerful combination of academic excellence, personal growth, and service to others. Through mentorship, perseverance, and her passion for the environment, she has become an inspiring example of what is possible when purpose meets determination.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.