Groundbreakers Uncovered: Faculty of EBE alumni spotlight: Tawananyasha Diane Hwata

For Tawananyasha Diane Hwata, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning is far more than an academic milestone, it is a tribute to the sacrifices, faith and unwavering support of the people who carried him through the journey. Originally from Zimbabwe and raised primarily in South Africa, Hwata currently lives in Mpophomeni near Pietermaritzburg with his mother. He is now continuing his academic journey as an Honours student within the Department of Town and Regional Planning at the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Graduating Cum Laude, Hwata’s achievement reflects years of hard work, resilience, and a deep commitment to building a future rooted in meaningful social impact. “I think of my graduation as a way of thanking my mother, showing her that all the sacrifices that she has made to support me were not in vain,” he said. “It’s also a very important entry point for building the life that I envision. My dreams are within reach.” Hwata’s passion for Urban and Regional Planning comes from a strong desire to address some of the continent’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges. His interests include sustainable development, reducing inequalities and protecting African biodiversity issues he believes require thoughtful and people-centered planning. “I have a deep passion for the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of our cities,” he explained. “I am committed to addressing racial and international inequalities, particularly within Africa, where a unified approach could bring substantial positive change.” During his undergraduate studies, Hwata discovered that Urban and Regional Planning offered the exact tools he had long been searching for to turn his passion into practical action. “One of the best feelings I experienced during my studies was finally feeling like I was exactly where I belonged,” he shared. “I grew up wanting to solve social, economic and environmental challenges, and suddenly I found a field that gave me the tools to do that.” His journey, however, was never one he walked alone. Hwata credits much of his success to his mother, Mrs Tsitsi Hwata and his foster father and pastor, Mr Simo Sibisi, whose support shaped both his academic and personal growth. “My mother is my home,” he said. “Everything I am because of her.” He also spoke with deep appreciation about Mr Sibisi’s role in his life. “Without his assistance, I would not have been able to come to university,” he said. “He taught me what it means to be a great man and to have a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.” Beyond academic excellence, Hwata says one of the most valuable lessons he has learned through Urban and Regional Planning is the importance of listening to communities and understanding the complexity of creating sustainable spaces. “Good change takes time,” he reflected. “Cities, towns, and villages are for people, and listening to them reveals exactly what they need. As planners, architects and engineers, we should never get caught up in our own plans and forget the people we serve.” Now preparing for the next chapter of his academic journey, Hwata remains motivated by the belief that young African professionals can shape stronger, more inclusive and environmentally conscious communities. Graduating with Cum Laude has strengthened his confidence and reaffirmed his belief in what is possible through discipline and determination. “Graduating with Cum Laude is exciting and I am so proud of myself,” he said. “This is proof to myself that I am competent and that the dreams I have are well within reach.”