Media personality, model, and businesswoman Ayanda Thabethe has officially added a new feather to her cap—she is now an MBA graduate from Henley Business School, University of Reading.
On 19 September 2025, Ayanda proudly walked the graduation stage in London, dressed in her full regalia and a striking black-and-white figure-hugging gown. Sharing the emotional moment on Instagram, she wrote:
“In London, on the 19th September, I walked the stage and graduated with my MBA from Henley Business School (University of Reading) and now I proudly join its circle of elite global business leaders. A monumental milestone and one for the books.”
Celebratory Messages from Family and Friends
Following her announcement, Ayanda received an outpouring of congratulatory messages:
-
Her sister Lungile Thabethe wrote: “Soooo proud of you my sissy! You are set apart! The best role model.”
-
Content creator Mihlali Ndamase commented: “Huge congratulations my love.”
-
Actress and DJ Thuli Phongolo added: “Yeah! SHE did THAT! So proud of you mama!”
A Journey of Resilience
Ayanda’s MBA journey has been years in the making. Back in June 2021, she announced her acceptance into Henley’s Flexible Executive MBA Programme, a rigorous academic course designed for professionals.
In May 2025, nearly four years later, she revealed she had officially completed the programme, describing it as both “emotional and rewarding.” She also shared that she passed her thesis with distinction.
Her journey wasn’t without challenges. Ayanda took time off during her studies to welcome her two children but remained determined to finish.
“A typical Henley Executive MBA takes around two and a half years – mine took four. But with determination, support from @henleyafrica, and God’s grace, I never lost sight of why I started,” she reflected.
An Inspiration to Others
With her MBA now complete, Ayanda is using her story to inspire others who may be hesitant to start a daunting journey:
“To anyone standing at the beginning of something daunting – this is your sign. Start. And finish. Even if life interrupts you along the way.”
Now officially an MBA graduate, Ayanda Thabethe joins the global circle of Henley-trained business leaders, further solidifying her position as a role model in both entertainment and business.
