Meet Vhutshilo Muambadzi, a final-year LLB student at the University of Pretoria (UP) and the 2025 Student Representative Council (SRC) President. She embodies the spirit of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to student success. Her journey at UP has been marked by academic excellence, servant leadership, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the student body.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Muambadzi’s academic path has been shaped by her passion for knowledge and leadership. She holds a BCom Law degree and is currently completing her LLB at UP’s Faculty of Law.

“My decision to study at UP was driven by its Faculty of Law’s reputation as the top-ranked in Africa, as well as its academic excellence and the vibrant student life that fosters both intellectual and personal development,” she says.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Muambadzi has an extensive history in student leadership, having served in multiple roles before assuming the SRC presidency. She has been the Chairperson of Erica Residence, the Chair of Chairs of TuksRes, a member of the SRC under the Residences Office, and a member of the House Committee of Erica Residence in the Sports Portfolio. She credits these experiences with shaping her belief in servant leadership and the power of collaboration.

It was during these formative years that she developed a deep understanding of student needs and refined her leadership philosophy. “Being elected as the 2025 UP SRC President has been one of my greatest honours. It has reinforced my commitment to serving students with integrity and accountability.”

As SRC President, Muambadzi’s role extends far beyond holding a title. “Being SRC President means ensuring that every student feels heard, represented, and supported in their academic and personal journey,” she explains.

Her responsibilities include student representation, leading governance structures, policy advocacy, crisis management, and ensuring student welfare.

A Re Ageng Bokamoso

One of the SRC’s key initiatives this year is A Re Ageng Bokamoso, a student-led fundraising campaign aimed at raising R5 million to assist students facing financial hardship.

“This initiative is crucial in helping students make their first payments to register and begin their academic journey,” Muambadzi explains.

The campaign also seeks to alleviate student debt, which often prevents students from graduating. The initiative has received strong support, including a commitment from UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Francis Petersen, to match the funds raised.

Balancing Academics and Leadership

Muambadzi describes balancing academics, leadership, and a social life as no small feat, but she has developed strategies to manage her responsibilities effectively.

“I prioritise and plan meticulously, ensuring that I allocate time for academic work, SRC duties, and personal well-being. Delegation and trusting my team are also key,” she says.

“Leadership can be demanding, but taking time to recharge—whether through sports, spending time with friends, or reflecting—is essential to staying focused and effective.”

Muambadzi hopes to leave a lasting impact at UP once her term ends.

“I want students to realise that their minds are their most powerful tools, and the only real limitations they face are the ones they impose on themselves,” she says passionately.

She envisions a campus culture where students are unafraid to dream big and seize the opportunities presented to them.

“Too often, we limit ourselves because we don’t fully trust in our abilities. My goal is to inspire a generation of students who believe in their potential, who are fearless in their pursuit of excellence, and who take every opportunity to propel themselves forward.”