My approach to student mentoring and supervision is closely aligned with my teaching philosophy, which I describe as being a “lecturer-coach.” This model places the student at the centre of the learning process, offering tailored support and guidance within a collaborative and trust-based relationship. By employing coaching principles, such as open-ended questioning, active listening, and reflective feedback, I can identify students’ strengths, challenges, and learning preferences. This enables me to assist them in articulating their academic and personal goals, developing strategies to achieve them, and maintaining a sense of purpose and motivation throughout their academic journey.
One of the key strengths of this approach is its emphasis on cultivating essential life skills that extend beyond academic success. Through intentional dialogue and structured goal-setting, I support students in strengthening their critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities. Coaching also fosters self-awareness, adaptability, resilience, and a growth mindset, all of which are crucial for long-term success in both personal and professional contexts.
This mentoring style promotes a culture of self-directed learning by encouraging students to take ownership of their educational experience. As a result, I have consistently observed increased engagement, motivation, and academic independence among the students I supervise.
I am proud to have successfully supervised three Master of Arts (Sociology) theses at the University of the Western Cape and more than fourteen Honours-level research projects across various institutions. Currently, I am supervising five Master of Arts (Sociology) by-thesis students, three of whom are in the final write-up phase and are expected to graduate in 2026.
Student Mentoring and Supervision
Student Reflections on My Supervision
"Dr. Trevor Makhetha has been a guiding light throughout my research proposal journey. His encouragement during challenging moments, insightful feedback, unwavering support, and deep knowledge strengthened my work, boosted my confidence, and reignited my passion for a topic I had briefly lost sight of... Truly exceptional"
— Daniel Lewis
★★★★★
"Dr. Trevor has always been welcoming, inclusive and assists me with my research proposal step by step. He is a true leader who noticed an individual's strengths and weaknesses, and motivates me to reach my full potential as a learner and person. Also, he always does his best in everything he does.
To end this off, I'll include this: "I am because we are". Thank you, Dr Trevor!"
— Judy Adams
★★★★★
"Trevor, you motivate me, seeing how you juggle your work but still do it so happily. It pushes me to stop doubting myself and improve my writing skills. It’s the words you use and how choose to say them, they make one want to become the best version of themselves. You correct one without making them feel inferior. (This is one your talents amongst others).
You're such an amazing, witty and inspiring person Doc. Thank you so much for allowing me to be one of your students."
— Sanelisiwe Ngalonkulu
★★★★★
"Having Dr Makhetha as my supervisor has been one of the best parts of my Honours journey. I’ve learnt so much from him over the years, both as an undergrad and now postgrad. He’s guided me with patience, supported me through my circumstances, and helped me do my best, and for that, I’ll always be grateful. Hope to have him again in the future"
— Tasha Ruiters
★★★★★
"My experience with Dr Trevor Makhetha as my supervisor was way better than I expected. When I was going through some mental health problems nobody’s words brought me comfort except for his words. “It’s not your fault” I still remember those words like it’s yesterday. His patience amazes me and how he always responds to us even when we ask him something after working hours (present supervisor). I wish every student had a supervisor like him."
— Anathi Stulumane
★★★★★
"Dr. Trevor Makhetha has created an environment where I feel confident to explore my research topic as a first-time Honours student. He has been very helpful, kind and patient throughout the first semester and has provided me with advice and words of wisdom that I will carry with me as I continue my studies. Dr. Makhetha has been very supportive during the proposal writing process and has guided me every step of the way. I am grateful to have him as my supervisor, and I look forward to his guidance for the rest of my Honours and, hopefully, master’s degree."
— Calem Cherry
★★★★★
"Dr Trevor Makhetha has been an exceptional supervisor to me. It was fulfilling that my supervisor not only cares about my thesis or academics but also my personal life. His guidance and support has significantly impacted my academic journey. He is a considerate supervisor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with him. Dr Makhetha has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication towards my studies, and I have greatly benefited from his mentorship. My Masters’ journey has been one of the most difficult journeys I have ever undertook but Dr Makhetha made it bearable for me because of his caring nature and understanding. He pushed me to work harder even at times where I felt overwhelmed and stuck but today, I am a Master’s graduate in Sociology, and that’s all thanks to his commendable support and guidance.
I have never met someone who goes above and beyond for his students. Dr Trevor has shown me that there are still good people out there who are eager to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I am proud to be one of his students and I am also proud of the work we have produced. Dr Makhetha is a hands-on person and very diligent. His feedback towards my thesis has been constructive and meticulous. He fostered a collaborative and nurturing environment and made it easy for me to engage in the writing process of my thesis. His dedication to mentoring and supervising me has significantly contributed to my growth. I will always have something positive to say about him because I have had a positive experience regarding supervision."
— Babalwa Ganya
★★★★★
"I wanted to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your guidance and support throughout my master's program. Your expertise and constructive criticism played a significant role in shaping my research and helping me grow as an academic. From the conception of my study to its fruition, your input and feedback were invaluable. Your meticulous approach and attention to detail helped me refine my ideas, strengthen my arguments, and produce a good thesis. Your constructive criticism challenged me to think critically and push beyond my limits, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of my work. One of the aspects I appreciate most about your supervision style is your flexibility and willingness to grant autonomy. You struck the perfect balance between giving me independence and being available when I needed guidance. This approach not only allowed me to take ownership of my research but also taught me valuable skills in time management, self-motivation, and problem-solving. Through your mentorship, I gained not only the knowledge and skills required to complete my master's degree but also a deeper understanding of the research process and academic writing. Thank you for your investment in my success and for being an exemplary supervisor. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked with you."
— Bonelwa Nogqaza
★★★★★
"Working with you has been a remarkable experience. You provide insightful guidance during my Honours in Sociology degree in 2024, and I'm thrilled to have you again for my Master’s degree at UWC. Your guidance fosters my growth, encouraging critical thinking and creativity. Your feedback is always constructive and insightful, helping me to have an outstanding research. Your supervision has been instrumental in my growth, and I appreciate your support, and encouragement.
Thank you for being an outstanding supervisor."
— Samkeliwe Cele
★★★★★
"Trevor is an incredibly passionate and supportive supervisor. His mix of brilliance and humour makes working with him an absolute joy. His enthusiasm for his work is truly contagious. After every conversation, I walk away feeling more motivated and inspired. He always makes it known that he believes in you, and in turn, it makes you believe in yourself. He has so many great qualities: he's funny, a little quirky in the best way, deeply passionate, and just an all-around bright light to be around."
— Shireen Parsley
★★★★★