The University of Johannesburg (UJ) turned its 2026 Autumn graduation season into a stadium of academic achievement this week. On Tuesday, 3 March 2026, the spotlight shifted from the netball court and the rugby pitch to the graduation stage, proving that UJ’s sporting icons are just as formidable with a pen as they are with a ball.
Leading the charge was none other than South African netball legend Bongiwe Msomi, who demonstrated that true leadership means never settling for the status quo.
A Masterclass in Mentorship: Msomi & Mupenda
In a rare and poetic display of “leading from the front,” former SPAR Proteas captain and current UJ Netball Head Coach Bongiwe Msomi received her Advanced Diploma in Business Management.
But the victory was twice as sweet as she shared the stage with her own protégé, UJ Senior Women’s Netball Team captain Cornelia Mupenda, who earned the same qualification with distinction.
- Msomi on the Win: “Growth should never stop—on or off the court. This qualification strengthens my ability to serve, lead, and build sustainable structures within sport.”
- Mupenda on the Mentor: “Sharing that stage symbolized mentorship, growth, and strong leadership. Coach Bongi has inspired greatness in every area of life.”
Rugby’s “Sasko” Ndlovu Conquers the Books
The “student-athlete” grind was also personified by former UJ Rugby captain Siyemukela “Sasko” Ndlovu. Graduating with a Diploma in Small Business Management, Ndlovu spoke candidly about the grit required to balance elite rugby with academic deadlines.
“It wasn’t an easy task… we have to manage our time well to focus on both,” Ndlovu reflected. “All glory to God and thanks to UJ for the support. We shouldn’t take it for granted that we’re on scholarship funding. It was tough, but we managed to conquer!”
Graduation 2026: The Big Picture
These sporting stars are part of a massive cohort of 13,125 graduands receiving their qualifications at UJ this season.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, highlighted that each walk across the stage represents years of perseverance. For Msomi and her stars, these degrees are more than just paper; they are the tools that will allow them to manage the business of sport long after the final whistle blows.
