At North-West University, leadership is not just about holding a title. It's about breaking boundaries and paving the way for others. We sat down with Hlakaniphile Mdladla, the first female SCC Chairperson at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, to reflect on her leadership journey, her NWU experience and what it meant to take up space where no woman had stood before. 

Let’s start from the beginning… what inspired you to get involved in student leadership at NWU? 

My fascination with finding mutually beneficial solutions definitely played a role but what truly lit the spark was the group of House Committee members who first orientated me. They were, as the late Mr Simango would say, “the cream of the crop leadership.” And I wanted a piece of that crop. 

When you found out you were elected as the first female SCC Chairperson at Vanderbijlpark, what went through your mind? 

Honestly, it didn’t sink in at first. So many people had discouraged the idea that I’d even win, so the first thing that went through my mind was, “Where’s my phone? I need to tell my grandparents.” They were my biggest support system. Once it finally sank in, I felt overwhelmed not just by the responsibility that started tap dancing on my shoulders, but by the sheer gratitude I had for everyone who believed in me. 

What were some of the challenges you faced stepping into a space that had never been led by a woman, and how did you rise above them? 

Breaking stereotypes. That was the biggest hurdle. Society still holds onto ideas like “women are too emotional,” or “too weak to lead,” and even things like “bad drivers.” I learned to let people underestimate me, just never prove them right. My secret weapon was letting my work ethic speak for itself. 

Was there a moment during your term when you truly felt the impact of your leadership? 

Absolutely. I once overheard three girls chatting in the bathroom about how the SCC under my leadership was making a real impact. They admitted they’d doubted me at first, but said I wasn’t doing such a bad job. I’m not sure what I enjoyed more…hearing their words, or seeing their faces when I walked out of the cubicle. Priceless. 

How would you describe your overall NWU journey? Not just as a leader, but as a student, peer, and young woman? 

It felt like the night before Christmas. There’s a buzz of anticipation, joy, and togetherness, even in the face of challenges. NWU is where you meet state-of-the-art individuals who help you navigate life. It has a strong sense of home, and it builds and prepares you for your future. 

What role did mentorship, community, or your support system play in your growth during your time at NWU? 

A massive role. I wouldn’t have survived without my SCC council, my lecturers (who often acted as both parents and educators) and the broader NWU community. Friends and family kept me grounded. In short, a strong support system and a daily teaspoon of “I’m a student before a student leader” got me through. 

What do you think your leadership meant for the young women watching you from afar, especially those still finding their voice? 

I hope they saw that you can allow people to belittle or underestimate you, but doing that to yourself is forbidden. After my term, I was proud to see the largest number of female leadership candidates the SCC had had in five years. I’d like to think some of them whispered, “If Hlakaniphile can do it, I can too.” 

What advice would you give to the next woman who dares to lead boldly at NWU? 

It’s scary. It’s overwhelming. It’s also fun and unforgettable. If your goal is to be liked, go sell ice cream. Leadership is a rollercoaster, so grip it firmly, but don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Do it for the students who believe in you, your council and yourself. 

Finally, if you had to describe NWU Vanderbijlpark in three words.  

Vibrant. Healing. Home.