UKZN alumnus, Ms Ayanda Mpama is a well-known musician, actress, presenter and voiceover artist who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Drama degree in the class of 2006.
Mpama, who now works as a creative industries specialist and Regional Coordinator at Interactive Career Experience in Durban, says that during her time at UKZN, she was highly influenced by two of her lecturers, Dr Lliane Loots and the late Tata Zim Ngqawana.
‘I cherished every moment on campus and all experiences whilst pursuing my undergraduate degree. I loved every second – to summarise such an important experience in my life to one best moment is simply not possible,’ said Mpama.
She added that UKZN prepared her theoretically, intellectually, and practically for a profession in the arts, giving her confidence in her skills.
Her advice to current students is to make the most of their time at the University during this pivotal phase in their lives.
‘University is not just about your degree,’ she said. ‘The skills you will gain outside of your course are life skills that you will use moving forward. In conjunction with your academics get involved in the various facets of the University such as student governance, volunteering, joining a student society and so forth’, she said.
To students who are currently pursuing their studies in the arts, she encouraged them to use their creativity.
‘Do not sit on the side-lines and wait for work. Make your own work; use the creativity and knowledge you have learned, Take up space!’
