The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Alumni Relations Office in partnership with the UKZN Foundation recently hosted a very successful Johannesburg Alumni Luncheon, bringing together graduates from across the region for an afternoon of networking, inspiration and reconnecting with their alma mater.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Director of University Relations, Ms XoliswaZulu, who thanked alumni for taking the time to attend and reaffirmed the importance of staying connected to the University.
“Today’s luncheon is about more than simply coming together for a meal,” she said. “It is an opportunity to reconnect with classmates and friends, build new professional relationships, exchange ideas and strengthen the bond that unites us all—our shared UKZN story.”
Zulu highlighted the value of alumni engagement and encouraged graduates to remain actively involved with the University. She also introduced the keynote speaker, describing him as an outstanding example of someone using his education, talent and voice to make a meaningful impact. She further acknowledged the continued support of the UKZN Convocation and the UKZN Foundation in strengthening alumni engagement.
Delivering the Convocation address, UKZN Convocation President and Chairperson, Dr Qiniso Mlita, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to engage with fellow alumni and shared updates on initiatives currently being undertaken by the Convocation.
Dr Mlita spoke about the vision of building a connected alumni network that remains actively engaged with the University, regardless of where graduates live or work.
“These chapters will serve as platforms for engagement, collaboration and service,” he said. “They will create opportunities for alumni to network, mentor students, support fundraising initiatives and contribute to community outreach.”
The highlight of the afternoon was the keynote address by UKZN alumnus, professional electrical engineer, television host and award-winning podcaster, Lungelo KM, who spoke on the topic, “Why Your Personal Brand is Pivotal in 2026.”
Drawing inspiration from the book Key Shift by Dr Nceba Hene, Lungelo emphasised the importance of adopting a learner mindset. He explained that embracing continuous learning enables individuals to recognise that knowledge extends far beyond their own experiences and assumptions.
He encouraged alumni to continually develop both personally and professionally, noting that talent alone is not enough to achieve long-term success.
“Raw, inherited talent is merely a starting point. What truly separates high achievers from those trapped in mediocrity are the deliberate choices and personal attributes they add to their skills,” he said.
He further challenged young professionals to commit to continuous improvement in every aspect of their work.
“As a young person working in any field, if you don’t set personal targets on refining the time in which you complete certain tasks, the precision with which you execute them and the quality of the product you deliver, you are on a decline that you may not even be aware of. When it is time for decision-makers to advance careers, you will be left behind because you were not committed to refining your contribution holistically.”
The keynote address was followed by an engaging question-and-answer session, where alumni had the opportunity to interact with Lungelo and discuss personal branding, career growth and lifelong learning.
Closing the programme, Head of Alumni Relations Finn Christensen delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing his appreciation to the speakers, guests, partners and alumni whose support and participation contributed to the success of the luncheon.
The Johannesburg Alumni Luncheon once again demonstrated UKZN’s commitment to building meaningful and lasting relationships with its graduates. Through events such as these, the Alumni Relations Office continues to create opportunities for alumni to reconnect, share knowledge, inspire one another and remain active members of the UKZN community.
As Lungelo KM aptly reminded attendees:
“Anything of value requires commitment.”
Words: Ayabulela Mbhele
Photograph: Itumeleng Masa
