Graduation is a steppingstone to a better tomorrow and is one of the most important moments in any student's life. For this reason, students and parents spare no costs in buying the best suits and outfits for this special day. However, 26-year-old Mulisa Mabada made a very bold statement when he arrived at his graduation ceremony at the Vhembe TVET College recently, dressed in a traditional tsindi (loin cloth) to prove that he is as proudly Venda as can be.
The young Mabada, from Fefe in Dzimauli, graduated with a diploma in civil engineering. When his name was called on this occasion and he ascended the stage, he deliberately opened his academic gown to show off his traditional attire. Guests, fellow students, and college personnel were so shocked at first that nobody was sure how to react to this audacious show, but a moment later the hall was roaring with ululations and thunderous applause as he received a standing ovation, and instant eminence with it.
After the ceremony, Mabada was mobbed by his new fans, who all wanted a closer look at his attire and their photos taken with him. To add to the frenzy, the young student was flanked by his mother, who had sewn a matching traditional outfit, specially designed for this proud occasion.
"Culture runs in my blood, and I am not ashamed of it. My grandmother, Muofhe Mabada, has been a major influence in my life as she encouraged me to love my culture. As a royal herself, she always encouraged me not to be ashamed of my culture and this view found a special room in my heart. I started wearing traditional attire in public years ago, during the Mr and Miss SAPS Mutale, and people were curious and happy at the same time," he said.
"For my graduation, my mother wanted to buy me a suit, but I refused and told her it was my special day and should be celebrated in a special way. She tried to convince me otherwise, but I did not budge. So, seeing that I was determined to wear the traditional attire, she designed a special traditional dress that matched my attire, and we really made a big statement."
Ms Mashudu Masindi, who also took some photos with Mabada, said she was highly impressed by his confidence and love of his culture. "This is unknown to us. Many of us have never seen such attire. We are learning and copying from him," she said.