On August 16th, the UJ Congolese Society (UJCS), in collaboration with the Biotechnology and Food Technology Student Society, hosted an inspiring Women’s Day seminar under the
theme Unstoppable Women. This event aimed to empower and motivate young women by showcasing the journeys of successful women in various fields, proving that there are no limits to their aspirations. Our special guests included Ms. Boitumelo Kuzwayo, Head of the Department of Commercial Accounting: Prof. Kulsum Kondiah, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Science; Prof. Mahloro Hope Serepa-Dlamini, Head of the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology; and Victoria Elias, a business accountant and financial coach. Each shared personal stories, valuable insights, and practical advice to inspire our attendees to pursue
excellence and break barriers. The event highlighted the potential of women to thrive in any field and encouraged our young women to believe in their limitless potential.

On June 30th, UJCS hosted a special Movie Day to mark the Independence Day of the
Democratic Republic of Congo. The event featured a powerful film that shed light on the impact of war in the eastern region of our country, offering an eye-opening perspective on the realities faced by those affected. Through this screening, we aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict and to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our
homeland. It was an inspiring day of reflection and solidarity, bringing our community together to honour our country’s independence and advocate for peace.

The UJCS soccer team had an impressive year, showcasing skill, dedication, and teamwork
throughout the season. We led the UJ internal league during the first half of the season, thanks
to a strong team effort and the remarkable performance of our top scorer, Ben Muya, who netted 14 goals. Though we narrowly missed winning the league, the team continued to shine in other competitions. One of the highlights was our victory in a tournament organized by the Nigerian student society (CONSUJ), competing against teams from the Zimbabwean and Eswatini student societies. The season demonstrated the strength and unity of our team, and we’re excited to build on this success next year!

We are excited to announce a new partnership between the UJ Congolese Society (UJCS) and 243ProNetwork, a leading platform for Congolese professionals in South Africa and beyond. Through this collaboration, UJCS members now have access to mentorship opportunities that connect them with experienced professionals across various fields. This initiative allows our members to learn directly from industry experts, gain valuable insights, and develop the skills needed to excel in their careers. Together, UJCS and 243ProNetwork are committed to empowering young Congolese talent and fostering a culture of learning and support within our community.

The Umoja Awards, named after the Swahili word for “unity,” is a prestigious event organized by the UJ Congolese Society. This annual celebration honours and recognizes the outstanding achievements of Congolese students at the University of Johannesburg, particularly those who excel in academics and other fields of distinction.
In addition to celebrating academic excellence, the Umoja Awards serve as a platform for  Congolese entrepreneurs and start-ups to showcase their innovative work, offering a unique opportunity to connect and collaborate. By bringing together top achievers and business leaders, the event fosters unity, promotes talent, and strengthens networks within the Congolese community in South Africa.