Recognising student excellence at leadership awards
- Wits University
From the VC’s Student Leader of the Year to standout groups like the Zulu Students Cultural Society, the awards highlighted those who exemplify Wits values.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Student Leader of the Year: Bukasa Dan Kabongo’s transformative work
Wits Master’s student and Student Representative Council (SRC) member Bukasa Dan Kabongo received the event’s highest honour, the Vice-Chancellor's Student Leader of the Year award. Kabongo’s leadership has significantly improved student experiences at Wits. His initiatives range from enhancing maintenance systems in student residences to contributing towards the first-ever All Residence Sub-Council(ARSC) Street Market, an event that offers student entrepreneurs a platform to promote their products. He also spearheaded the residence postgraduate orientation efforts, fostering community and connection among postgraduate students residing in the University’s residences. His efforts have drawn praise from his family, with one relative proudly noting, “Considering how big Wits University is and that you were recognised as one of its best, I’m so proud of you. I knew from the day you were born that you had leadership skills; it’s a gift from God, and now it’s shining through.”
Bridging the gap: WorkReady Gen-Z programme recognised for outstanding contribution
One of Kabongo’s far-reaching contributions, the WorkReady Gen-Z programme, has enrolled over 7,300 students in the Ulwazi Learning Management System, providing critical skills to facilitate their transition from University to the professional world. Together, Kabongo and his collaborator, Siyamthanda Mashicila, the SRC Student Development and Support Officer, have not only enhanced student life on campus but also tackled larger social issues like youth unemployment. Their exemplary leadership in this programme was recognised with the Most Outstanding Contribution Made by SRC Members award.
Wits Law students recognised for academic excellence and community impact
Third-year Bachelor of Law students Milkias Gebremichael and Jonathan Casaleiro have excelled academically, maintaining averages above 70% since the start of their LLB degrees, while also making significant contributions to their community. Gebremichael, was awarded the Most Outstanding Student Leader in a School Student Council, and has refined career support through social media campaigns and by co-hosting a dynamic Career Fair featuring over 30 firms. He also organised a Food Drive that mobilised resources from various law firms to support about 75 law students who were affected by Braamfontein power outages. Meanwhile, Casaleiro, earned the Social Innovator Award for his impactful Books and Briefs initiative, which addresses illiteracy through daily reading sessions for more than 300 primary school learners across three Johannesburg schools, while also creating valuable volunteer opportunities for over 100 law students. Together, Gebremichael and Casaleiro exemplify the spirit of impactful leadership and academic excellence truly embodying the #WitsForGood ethos.
Innovation in education: Jordan Chongo named Student Entrepreneur of the Year
The Student Entrepreneur of the Year award was presented to Jordan Chongo, creator of the “University and College App,” which addresses the information gap many students face in accessing higher education. Targeted toward students from underprivileged backgrounds, the app consolidates essential information about universities, including rankings, admission requirements, and direct links. With over 100 downloads and 700 advertisement impressions, Chongo’s app is helping students make informed educational choices while supporting itself with a sustainable monetisation strategy.
Recognising cultural heritage: Zulu Students Cultural Society wins Best Student Organization
The Zulu Students Cultural Society received the award for Most Outstanding Student Clubs, Societies, and Organizations. This society’s commitment to cultural preservation and student welfare stood out in 2024. Through initiatives like #IngomaTuesdays, which gained national attention on social media, they promoted African traditions and strengthened community ties on campus. Their membership numbers surged due to innovative recruitment drives, and their Sanitary Pads Drive and Academic Help Desk provided essential support to students, cementing their influence at Wits.
A legacy of student leadership
The 2024 Wits Student Leadership Awards recognised the students who have gone beyond personal achievements to improve the lives of their peers, foster unity, and prepare the next generation for the challenges ahead. Their contributions reflect Wits University’s mission of advancing knowledge, community, and leadership. As Vice-Chancellor Professor Zeblon Vilakazi concluded, this year’s awardees embody the qualities of resilience, service, and excellence, setting a powerful example for the Wits community and beyond.
Read more about the awardees' citations here.