Lacroix, a second-year computer information systems major, cited her upbringing as her cause for wanting to explore Zulu at Howard. “I come from a Haitian background so I knew the language that I wanted to take in college, it would have to be from the African continent,” she said. “Before college, I was so immersed in the South African culture. … I didn’t have to do any research; I knew I wanted to study Zulu. As soon as it opened on our registration, I registered for it. And then I met [Sithole], and that solidified it for me.”

Reed, a third-year political science and criminology double major, spoke to the sense of belonging in the Zulu society that can often feel absent in America. “In the United States, we’re really worried about our own personal well-being and our doings and our own opportunities that we don’t really take a lot into filling into the opportunities that others have around us in our community,” she said. “Being here, I’ve learned that regardless of if I know you or not, you’re my family and I have to look out for you.”

Being [in South Africa], I’ve learned that regardless of if I know you or not, you’re my family and I have to look out for you.”

Cannon, a second-year biology major, noted the subtle differences between South Africa and the United States — like left-hand traffic — but also the comforts that she and other Americans can take for granted, such as longer showers or accessibility to disposable towels. “I’m glad we get to immerse ourselves in the culture and actually meet the people, not just learn the language. I’ve noticed that the people of South Africa are so resilient,” she said.

Wright, a third-year broadcast journalism major, acknowledged the trip represented a “big change” for her culturally, but remaining receptive to the novelty of the situation kept her grounded and in the moment. “It’s been something I wouldn’t change for the world,” she said. “I wouldn’t say there are specific ways I have adapted. Just fully immersing myself within the culture, taking everything head-on, not being afraid to try new things, and not being close-minded.”

Blake, a third-year psychology major and criminology and sociology double minor, credited Sithole with her participation in the program and much more. “When he came to Howard University last year, he truthfully changed my life. I’ve never had a professor so caring and supportive and that genuinely loves to teach,” she said. “He took me from the traditional classroom setting that I was used to and transitioned my whole Howard experience. I came to South Africa because of him. He taught us dances and war songs and war cries — honestly, I fell in love and had to experience it for myself.”

When asked what they would share with their loved ones in the United States upon their return, Blake spoke of ubuntu, a Zulu saying that translates to “I am because you are.” “Leaning on your community, and allowing them to lean on you as well,” she concluded.

That ethos, experienced in isiZulu and lived in South Africa, now returns to the Mecca with the 2025 cohort, strengthening Howard’s mission to cultivate scholars who serve, connect, and lead across borders.