The Faculty's Peer Mentor Programme plays a vital role in helping first-year students transition to university by fostering a supportive environment where they feel connected, encouraged and empowered to succeed.
In the spirit of Ubuntu and Nelson Mandela Day, mentors were reminded that leadership is expressed through service, compassion, and a commitment to uplifting others.
The training encouraged them to continue making a meaningful impact on their mentees, as well as strengthening a sense of belonging within the Faculty.
The event included reflection, skills development and renewed commitment to supporting first-year students.
The training strengthened the mentors' knowledge and equipped them with the skills and tools needed to provide continued academic, social and emotional support throughout the second semester.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of stationery packs to all Peer Mentors, generously supported by the 11 departments in the faculty. This gesture demonstrated shared commitment to equipping mentors with practical resources and also reinforcing the values of generosity, collaboration and community.
The event also celebrated the outstanding contributions of seven mentors during the Peer Mentor Spotlight Awards for their exceptional dedication to the programme and the communities they serve.
These students were Biotumelo Khoza and Thimna Makhuphula (Medical School), Tshifhiwa Gabara (Social Development Professions), Queentest Mabanne (Pharmacy), Lolwethu Roboji (Psychology), Faith Sono (Environmental Health) and Unathi Mtshungwana (Nursing Science).
Each of these recipients demonstrated leadership, compassion, initiative, and service beyond the expectations of their mentoring role and embodying the theme of Ubuntu in Action: Carrying the Legacy Forward.
The Faculty extends its sincere appreciation to all these Peer Mentors for their dedication and commitment, honouring Nelson Mandela's legacy by creating an inclusive, supportive environment where first-year students can thrive, demonstrating that meaningful change begins with supporting one student at a time.