Sethabile Gcume recently accomplished an outstanding milestone by graduating with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with distinction from the Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL). Discover the inspiring story behind her exceptional academic journey and her aspirations for leadership.

Gcume says that her commitment to lifelong learning was the core driver behind her decision to pursue an MBA. She states that her employer, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), also played a significant role by providing her with the opportunity and encouragement to further her studies. She explains that her pursuit of a distinction stemmed from a desire to honour that commitment fully. "If I was going to invest the time, I wanted to give it my absolute best and set an example that growth never stops," she says.

Reflecting on her journey, she highlights two key lessons: the non-negotiable role of ethics in business and the power of collaboration. She notes that working in diverse groups was at times challenging, as members had different working styles and perspectives. However, they all shared a common goal. She says this experience taught her that when everyone commits to giving their best, collective effort can deliver results that no individual could achieve alone.

Gcume shares that her greatest challenge was balancing full-time work and her studies with her responsibilities as a wife and mother, all while prioritising her mental health. She explains that there is no perfect formula; it requires structure, clear boundaries and the willingness to ask for help when needed. She became intentional about planning her weeks, protecting dedicated study time and allowing herself grace on more difficult days. She believes this discipline is what carried her through.

She adds that two habits made a significant difference to her success: staying ahead of deadlines and leveraging group study. Submitting work on time reduced stress and allowed her space to refine her thinking. Collaborating with her group was equally important, as each member contributed unique strengths. "I learned as much from my peers as I did from the coursework. Distinction was a team effort, not just a solo one," she says.

Gcume further emphasises that resilience and determination formed the foundation of her success, but, in practice, it came down to three key things: planning, prioritisation and support. She mapped out non-negotiable family time, work deliverables and study blocks each week. In conclusion, she says, "I learned to say no to what wasn’t essential and to lean on my support system when needed. Determination kept me going, but structure made it possible."

Unisa SBL congratulates her on obtaining the Master of Business Administration (MBA) with distinction. 

* By Talana Lebelo, Alumni Relations Specialist, Unisa SBL