Groundbreakers Uncovered: Faculty of EBE alumni spotlight: Phumelele Mahlase

Phumelele Mahlase, originally from KwaPata township in Pietermaritzburg, is a proud graduate who earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture from the Durban University of Technology. The graduate from Pietermaritzburg is over the moon as his hard work and determination has finally paid off. “After all the challenges I’ve faced, especially financial difficulties, this moment means everything. There were times when I didn’t have much, but I made the most of what I had. I used every little resource, every bit of time and support, to push through. It’s a reminder that even when life gives you less, you can still create more,” he said. Mahlase extended his many thanks to several individuals including his mentors and lecturers and highlighted that their support gave him strength to push forward. He went on to describe how he became inspired by Engineering and the Built Environment. “My inspiration began in my childhood, helping my father, who was a builder in construction work. That exposure made me fall in love with how buildings come together. In high school, I took Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD), and it became clear that I had a natural ability and passion for creative design, "he explained. Phumelele Mahlase claims that winning the City Centre Sustainable Design Competition in 2024 was one of his favorite memories from her time as a DUT undergraduate. According to him, the experience confirmed that all the late nights, sacrifices, and effort weren’t in vain and challenged him to think critically about sustainability and urban design. For a first-year student embarking on a career in Architecture, Mahlase said: “Don’t give up- it’s worth it in the end. There’s more support out there than you think. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Keep pushing and stay grounded in your passion”. #thefutureliveshere