Page 40 - Graduate Recruitment Handbook 2024

| What do you enjoy most about your current career position?
I have an opportunity to collaborate with communities and contribute to address societal challenges.
| What have been the biggest challenges in your career?
Not being given an opportunity to unleash your capabilities.
Having to be a worker and student at the same time.
| Based on what you know now, would you pick the same career path?
Yes, I would
| What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishments (both personally and professionally)?
Personally – pursuing my Honours
Professionally – Having to work at the engagement office as a project assistant.
| What advice would you give to younger alumni or current students who aspire to follow a similar career
path?
Engage in volunteer work that relate to community involvement.
Make contacts with professionals in the field, go to conferences, and become a member of relevant groups.
Establishing connections through networking might lead to new opportunities and mentorship opportunities.
Choose mentors who can guide you, share their experiences, and support you as you navigate your professional
path.

Zukhanye Mqamelo

Qualification(s): Higher Certificate in Banking, National Diploma
in Human Resource Management, and an Advanced Diploma in
Human Resource Management
| What company/organisation do you work for now? What is
your job title?
Nelson Mandela University – Career Services Intern
| How did you become interested in your field?
I really enjoyed Business Studies and any chapter that had to do
HR it was easier to learn because it was interesting to me. When I discovered that there are different fields in
HR and that even introverted can still excel in that career while still being behind the scenes, I was keener on
studying it.
| What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout university that you found most useful in your career?
Computer studies because most admin work and other technical responsibilities need one to have computer
knowledge/skills. Time management, being organised. The importance of the South African Laws (especially
with HR related careers) as they are sometimes listed under requirements in job adverts. Presentations,
even though I may still struggle a bit with talking in front of an audience, but I now know how to conduct a
presentation with good PowerPoint slides.
| How relevant is your degree to your current role?
It includes placements; therefore, it may include some recruitment process. It also involves some administrative
responsibilities that align with my career path. We engage with different stakeholders to ensure the successful

40 2024/2025 Graduate Recruitment Handbook