A strong mind and body are vital ingredients in achieving one’s goals and Ms Phiwokuhle Prudence Ngubane (22) has both.

The Psychology honours student is one of five recipients of the UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarship, awarded for outstanding achievement in sports at international, national or provincial levels.

Ngubane has achieved South African colours in karate and has represented UKZN in regional and national tournaments. ‘During my time as an undergraduate student, I was a competitive athlete, which required me to balance my academic studies with my training schedule, which wasn’t always easy.’ However, she has excelled in both.

Looking ahead as she nears the end of her honours year, Ngubane plans to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. She is keen to use her education and knowledge to make a positive impact on society and plans to work as a psychologist in a clinical setting.

‘Being awarded this scholarship is an acknowledgement of my academic achievements but also my hard work and dedication as an athlete,’ she said. She is grateful for the investment UKZN has made in her and will be paying it forward by motivating students who are passionate about sports to continue pursuing their dreams. She also plans on campaigning for universities to invest more generously in women’s sports.

Another passion she would like to pursue is volunteering for university programmes and initiatives that promote mental health and wellness among students. ‘My UKZN experience has been truly inspiring. When I arrived on campus for the first time, I knew I had found a place that would challenge and inspire me to achieve my full potential. I want to help make all UKZN students feel this way.’

She has big aspirations for her future in karate and will continue to train and compete at the highest level. Her dream is to represent South Africa in international competitions. ‘Karate is not just a sport, but a way of life that I use for mental and physical wellness as well as competition. Sport has been a positive force in my life and I would love to help others experience the same benefits,’ Ngubane said.

She offers the following advice to UKZN students, ‘Take advantage of all opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Do not give up, keep working diligently towards your goals, maintain a positive attitude and be open to opportunities that come your way.’