Meet Londiwe Nxumalo, a dedicated former Hospitality and Catering Services student from Esikhawini Campus. We had the pleasure of sitting down with her to learn about her remarkable journey working on one of the world’s largest cruise ships.
Q: Who is Londiwe Nxumalo?
A: I’m an enthusiastic, cheerful, hard-working, and focused young lady. I was born in Mtubatuba, Machibini Area, and raised by my maternal family in KwaXulu. My aunt Nontobeko played a significant role in my upbringing since my mother worked far from home.
Q: Tell us about your schooling career.
A: I started primary school in 2000 at Qalakancane Primary School and attended Mawombe Secondary School in 2007, where I obtained my Matric Certificate. After matric, I struggled to get into universities, but in 2015, I did a walk-in at uMfolozi TVET College, Esikhawini Campus. To my surprise, I was offered a chance to study NC(V) Hospitality. While there, I received numerous awards for Best Overall Achiever. After completing my NC(V), I continued my studies with Report 191 in Hospitality and Catering Services.
Q: Why did you choose to study at uMfolozi College?
A: uMfolozi College is one of the best TVET Colleges in the country, and I saw that its graduates were getting jobs at big companies. It was also conveniently close to home, allowing me to commute easily.
Q: What did you do after finishing your studies?
A: After completing my N6, I struggled to find a company for in-service training so that I could graduate. Then, the College offered me an 18-month internship at the South African Navy (Naval Base Durban). I was thrilled! The College covered all expenses for medical tests and Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) courses, and I received a monthly stipend. As an intern in the Hospitality Department, I worked in the galley and housekeeping, learning a lot, even getting exposure to sailing. Near the end of my internship, I learned about a job opportunity on the MSC Cruise Ship. With the help of my mentor, Navy Petty Officer Mr. MB Moshiga, I applied, and my application was successful.
Q: What are your duties at MSC?
A: I work as a Cabin Steward in the Housekeeping Department, responsible for keeping passenger cabins clean and delivering important notices and excursion tickets.
Q: Have you always wanted to work at MSC?
A: Since studying Hospitality, my dream was to work on a ship or a plane. I ended up at MSC thanks to my Navy experience.
Q: Are you enjoying your work?
A: Absolutely! Working on a ship is fantastic. It’s a great way to work with people from different nationalities, learn other languages, and see beautiful places without spending a cent.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: I’m currently studying towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management at UNISA, so I spend my spare time doing assignments. Onboard, we have crew activities like gym, sports, and parties. When I’m not studying, I enjoy partying with friends.
Q: What do you miss about South Africa?
A: I miss everything, especially my kids, my family, and the food.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: I see myself as a successful businesswoman in the hospitality industry, both on land and onboard. After completing my degree, I hope to find new opportunities.
Q: What advice would you give to young people who want to follow in your footsteps?
A: Be yourself and don’t compete with anyone. Don’t let your background discourage you. No matter where you come from, you can achieve your goals. Do your research, ask questions, and seek help. Aim to excel in your studies, not just to pass.
Q: Any final comments?
A: I want to thank Mrs. PMT Mngoma and Mrs. SP Dludla from Esikhawini Campus for their guidance from the start. When I first arrived at the College, they explained hospitality to me, even though I initially thought it was related to hospitals. They made me fall in love with the field and supported me throughout my studies. I’m also grateful to Mrs. SCO Shandu, who assisted me during my internship. These three ladies were like mothers to me, offering love and support, even when I was in the hospital. uMfolozi TVET College has significantly impacted my life, providing me with a good career and workplace exposure. I’m proud to say I am where I am today because of uMfolozi TVET College, Esikhawini Campus. Finally, I want to thank all my lecturers from NC(V) to Report 191 for their excellent teaching and guidance. I’m honored to have been built by them.6
