Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule's Legacy Celebrated at Student Leadership Awards Ceremony

By: Sabrina Zerf

In a heartfelt tribute to the powerful legacy of Reverend Dr. Simon Gqubule, Rhodes University hosted a Memorial Lecture. Gospel choirs filled the room with rich harmonies, showcasing the faith-driven leadership Rev Dr. Gqubule embodied throughout his life.

The event, gracefully facilitated by 2025 SRC Residence Councillor Mpho Pholokgolo, began with the beautiful hymns sung not only by choir members but also voices from the audience. St Peter's Chapel transformed into a sacred space of remembrance and reflection. Following the musical opening, Dr. Pakiso Tondi, Director of Student Services and Development at Rhodes University, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. His words resonated with sincerity as he emphasised the profound connection between the legacy of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule and the University's ongoing mission to inspire the new generation of ethical and responsible leaders.

Following the introduction of guest speaker Mr Lincoln Mali and keynote speaker Rev. Pumla Nzimande by 2025 SRC President Linathi Ndubela, the evening took a deeply reflective turn as keynote speaker Rev. Pumla Nzimande stepped to the podium. As a presiding bishop and ordained minister in the Methodist Church, Rev. Nzimande delivered a powerful and spiritually grounded tribute to Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule. "Reverend Dr. Simon Gqubule was not just a scholar. He was not just a minister. He was not just a political actor," she began. "He was a man who embodied leadership as sacrifice." Rev. Nzimande reminded the audience that Dr. Gqubule, the first Black PhD graduate from Rhodes University in 1978, made deliberate choices that reflected his moral courage. "He could have chosen comfort. He could have chosen prestige and personal advancement. Instead, he chose the struggle. He chose community. He chose to influence generations of leaders."

She remarked on Rev Dr Gqubule's showcase of being a leader by saying, "leadership is not a job title," she affirmed. "It is a way of showing up in the world." Like Gqubule, authentic leaders serve without seeking applause, choose justice even when it is unpopular, and understand that fundamental transformation is measured in promises and outcomes.

Rev. Nzimande closed with a challenge, especially to the younger generation in the room. "We do not need you to wait for your turn," she said. "We need you to lead with courage now. Bring your faith, your vision, and your compassion into every space.” Her words were a call for immediate and courageous action as she states, "the world doesn't need more leaders – it needs better ones."

Following this address, Mr. Lincoln Mali, an accomplished banker, author, and Rhodes University alumnus, reflected on the enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule and the urgent call it places on today's leaders. Drawing from over 25 years of experience in the financial sector and his leadership journey, Mali challenged the current generation to reject comfort and complacency. Mali held up Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule as a powerful example of what ethical and servant leadership should look like. "He was a leader at home, and he became a leader in his community," he reminded the audience. Gqubule's legacy, Mali emphasised, was not built on titles or personal ambition, but on values, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to truth and justice. His message was clear: leadership is within reach for everyone willing to live with purpose and principle. "If somebody like him can be the embodiment of what leadership is, then why can't you?"

The pinnacle of the evening was the recognition of student leaders who have gone above and beyond in their service to the Rhodes University community. Presented in honour of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule's legacy of ethical, selfless, and Ubuntu-led leadership, the Rev Dr. Simon Gqubule Leadership Awards celebrated 11 exceptional students whose work reflects dedication, purpose, and a spirit of Ubuntu.

In the Student Wellness category, Milowo Nokele and Mr. Thembelani Chili, who also serves as the SRC Vice President, were honoured for their dedication to student wellbeing. Milowo Nokele and Delight Chaka received the Religious and Spiritual Engagement Award.

Sindy Xolo and Nchabeleleng Mashabela were awarded in the Social Justice and Transformation category. Their leadership continues to push forward necessary conversations on justice and change.

Ziyanda Sibiya and Thembelani Chili were presented with the Effective Student Governance Award. Minentle Scott was recognised for his outstanding contributions in the Ethical and Responsible Leadership category.

Khumo Raphuti was recognised with the Globally Engaged Award, honouring her efforts in connecting Rhodes University students with global advocacy movements. Zandile Mnisi received the Advancement for Education Empowerment Award, highlighting her work in making education more accessible and empowering for all. Angela Sibanda and Rosina Mpolokeng Thunya were awarded the Civic Engagement Award for their outstanding involvement in community upliftment.

Each award acknowledged individual achievement and served as a collective reminder of the leadership values Rev Dr. Gqubule championed: humility, sacrifice, service, and a deep commitment to justice.

 The award serves to honour their achievements and inspire their peers to follow a path of ethical and responsible leadership, keeping the spirit of Rev Dr. Gqubule alive and thriving at Rhodes University and beyond. The event concluded on a high note, with attendees leaving inspired and ready to embrace the principles of Ubuntu leadership in their communities.