DMU's Ellah sings at her own graduation ceremony

She’s sung for thousands of graduates over the years but one performance was extra-special for Ellah Kandi - her own graduation ceremony.

Ellah, co-ordinator of the DMU Gospel Choir, said she was the “most nervous she’s ever been” as she sang in her graduation gown with the choir at the ceremony at The Venue.

And her day was made even more special as her proud father Elisha was able to be there to see her graduate.

He had flown more than 5,000 miles from Zimbabwe to be there and it was the first time they have seen each other for 19 years. Elisha joined in the whoops and cheers as Ellah crossed the stage to collect her degree in BA (Hons) Social Work from Dean of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Dr Simon Oldroyd.

“I’ve sung for so many ceremonies but this was so different, I was so nervous because I was so emotional,” said Ellah. “Today is strange because DMU has been part of my life for so many years. I have had the best experiences here and I am so proud to say I am now a DMU graduate.”

“I’m very, very proud of her,” beamed dad Elisha. He said watching her sing was “incredible”.

He added: “She was always singing, as a little girl we knew she was a talent.”

Ellah has already got a job and is part of the hospital discharge team based at Leicester Royal Infirmary, working with Leicester City Council to ensure patients have support in place when they return home.

Ellah began her time at DMU working for the chaplaincy, before deciding to enrol on an undergraduate degree.

She has combined her studies with performing with the DMU Gospel Choir who have become part of the Leicester community. 

RELATED NEWS:
* See our graduation galleries on Facebook
* See DMU for yourself - book a place at our next open day
* Campaigner Gina Miller awarded honorary degree

The choir famously sang Leicester City Football Club to victory in the Premier League, performed with Kasabian at the LCFC concert at Victoria Park and on their album. They also reached the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent in May last year.

“We’re all here to cheer for Ellah,” said Pastor Samuel Gapara. “We are so proud of Sister Ellah, this is a special day for all of us.”