Lebogang Nkopodi’s choice to wear Sepedi attire at her graduation was a beautiful expression of her cultural pride and the importance of preserving traditions.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 September 2024) – It is heritage month and graduation season at the University of Cape Town (UCT), and all eyes were on one confident young woman who decided to embrace her Sepedi roots at her graduation.
Making a powerful statement in a beautifully crafted traditional attire was Lebogang Nkopodi who paid a powerful homage to her cultural heritage as she collected her hard-earned degree.
Nkopodi graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce specialising in Financial Accounting, during the Faculty of Commerce’s graduation ceremony on Monday 2 September.
Nkopodi wore Mahlokwa/Hlokwa from head to toe, symbolising not only her cultural pride but also a poignant connection to where she comes from.
According to UCT, the outfit, reminiscent of those worn after initiation school for Bapedi women, served as a tribute to her Nkopodi’s mother, who instilled in her a deep appreciation for their traditions and the importance of education.
In a now-viral video, Nkopodi is seen modelling and showing off her unique attire which also features a painted portrait of her late mother on her graduation gown, a tribute to the amazing woman who raised her and instilled great values in her.
“This celebration was both a personal and cultural milestone, blending academic achievement with a meaningful cultural expression,” the university shared.
Sources: University of Cape Town
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