For University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Master of Laws (LLM) in Business Law cum laude graduate, Ms Owethu Ngcobo, the journey to success was never just about academic achievement, it was about purpose, perseverance… and making her mother proud.
Graduating with a Master of Laws cum laude is a major milestone, but behind this moment lies a deeply personal story of resilience and quiet determination. “It is both humbling and deeply rewarding, but more than anything, it feels surreal,” said Ngcobo. “There were moments where I questioned whether I would reach the finish line. But I kept showing up even on the most challenging days.”
The demands of a research-intensive degree pushed her beyond her limits. Long hours of reading, writing, and refining arguments required discipline and mental endurance. “What people don’t always see is how consuming the process becomes,” she explains. “Your research stays with you, it’s something you carry in your thoughts all the time.”
Through it all, one constant kept her grounded – her mother.
While she received support from many, it was her mother’s unwavering belief that carried her through the hardest moments. “Her encouragement, her prayers and her constant belief in me kept me going,” Ngcobo says. “I found myself working not only for myself, but to make her proud.”
That sense of purpose became her anchor, especially in the final stretch of her degree when pressure and fatigue threatened to take over. “Hearing her say she was proud of me gave me the strength to keep pushing,” she adds.
Supervised by Dr Clydenia Stevens, Ngcobo’s research topic was: ‘Exploring Opportunities and Challenges: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Trade Relations between South Africa and the United States’.
Her research focused on trade relations between South Africa and the United States, a topic with real-world impact. She examined how frameworks like AGOA (the African Growth and Opportunity Act) have supported South Africa’s economy, while also pointing out the risks of relying too heavily on one trading partner.
“In simple terms, the relationship has benefits, but it also has limitations,” she explains. “South Africa needs to diversify its trade partnerships for long-term stability.”
Her work highlights how global trade decisions affect everyday lives. “Trade might seem distant, but it impacts jobs, industries and economic opportunities,” she says.
Beyond academics, her study reshaped how she sees the law. “I’ve learned to think more critically not just about what the law is, but how it works in practice and who it serves,” she reflects.
She credits her growth not only to her own efforts but also to the support of mentors and lecturers who guided her along the way. This support helped her stay focused and complete her degree within a demanding time frame.
Looking back, Ngcobo describes her journey as a series of small, consistent steps rather than one defining moment. “Progress came in increments – finishing chapters, refining arguments, improving bit by bit,” she says.
Now, as she steps into the next phase of her career, she carries with her more than just a qualification. She carries resilience, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose.
Her goal is to contribute meaningfully to the legal field, particularly in areas where law intersects with development and economic opportunity. She hopes to be part of building systems that are not only effective, but also fair and inclusive.
“My journey taught me that progress is built through consistency, patience, and resilience,” she reflects. “Even the most demanding goals can be achieved with steady effort.”
Ngcobo’s story is a reminder that success is rarely achieved alone and sometimes, the strongest motivation is the simple desire to make someone proud.
Words: Oliver Meth
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini