What better way to wrap up your graduation day than to receive a double-platinum plaque during the ceremony?
Not only has Nomfundo Moh been thriving in her academics, but she has been topping music charts as well.
When her name was called to receive her Bachelor of Social Work degree, the hall was buzzing with excitement as other graduates sang in unison to her song Soft Life.
Later Nomfundoh Moh, real name Nomfundo Ngcobo, was graced with a double-platinum plaque for her smash hit Phakade Lami.
Ngcobo shared the experience with The Star, revealing that she was surprised that Soft Life was playing on the loudspeaker as she stepped on stage. “That was so special for me.”
On receiving double platinum, she called it a double blessing. “The song Phakade Lami went gold two months ago. I wasn’t expecting to go double platinum already. I am so happy,” she said.
Ngcobo always loved music and began singing at the age of 6, performing at church, school concerts and at UKZN, where she began writing her own songs. She loved working with and helping people, which led her to pursue a degree in social work. “Music was always my passion. When I realised that people loved my songs, I thought I could actually become a musician and make a career out of it.”
Reflecting on her fondest UKZN memories, she said: “I recall during my first lecture, we were put into groups and had to introduce ourselves with what we have in common as a group. In my group, we were all Zionists, so we sang Ngijulise Nkosi Othandweni Lwakho (Immerse Me in Your Love, oh Lord). My lecturer, Dr Sibonsile Zibane, even nicknamed me iGosa (steward). I quickly became friends with Andiswa, Smangele and Ntokozo on campus. They always had my back. We’d laugh, have fun and study together. It’s so good to graduate alongside them and I’m proud of them.”
Her message to other students is: “Have dreams and let them drive you to reach greater heights. Ambition resides where there is a dream.”