Proud mom and son graduate together at NMU

While many parents are proud to see their children graduate few get to experience the fairy-tale moment of sharing the stage with them.

Elated mother and son, Lizelle and Cody Pienaar, were both capped at the 2025 Nelson Mandela University Autumn Graduation last week with a post graduate degree in business administration and a higher certificate in business studies, respectively.

The 41-year-old mother described the occasion as a dream come true.

“When we enrolled for the courses, we had the goal in mind of graduating together,” she said.

“We have done lots of special things together in the past, but this achievement is tops.”

She said while they were overjoyed with finally having completed their studies, it did not come without sacrifices along the way.

“It was hard work, we really put effort into our studies.

“There were many late nights of sacrifice. We would study in different rooms.

“After completing this course I feel so confident. I see myself in a boardroom.

“In 2008, I also finished a bachelors in human resources management, also at NMU.

“There were days during last year that I wanted to quit and give up. Many times I cried.

“The course was very strenuous. I thought I would not be successful.

“However, the support from my lecturer and study group was fantastic.”

Cody said what made the occasion extra special was that his mother capped him.

“That is a moment I will never forget,” he said.

“I felt very proud and fought back the tears.

“My mom really pushed me to make a success of this course. We both put in some really hard work.

“It was like a bridging course I did. This year I am studying logistics.

“I see myself one day in one of the big companies as a professional.

“I thrive in competition and really look forward to the future.”

They said their social life took a standstill and they attended no family functions, opting to participate in study groups during the weekends.

Not done with studying though, Lizelle said she hoped to pursue a master’s degree one day.

“I want to be the best of myself. Cody made me so proud. That is just the beginning of big things in his life.”

The 20-year-old Westering High alumni and former first team rugby player said a positive mindset and his mother’s supporter made it all possible.

“My advice is to surround yourself with right-minded, positive people who can motivate you.

“That is what happened to me and that is why I am in this favourable position right now.

“My advice to the youth out there is to make the decision to create a better future for yourself.

“Look the world in the eyes and say to yourself, ‘you can do this’.”

The Herald