Actor Jack Devnarain toasts daughter Surina’s graduation and shared sporting passion at UJ
“To combine her sporting life, career and achievements with academics was critically important for us."
Well-known actor and activist for performers’ rights, Jack Devnarain, was elated to see his daughter walk across the stage at the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) graduation ceremony on Wednesday, 25 March 2026.
He tagged the @mediaUJ X handle to alert the team that he would be sharing pictures of his daughter and the family.
After the graduation, the media team caught up with him and his daughter, Surina, who had just graduated with a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Sport and Exercise Science, on the popular APK lawns.
“I really like orange!” said Surina after being asked why she chose UJ to further her education.
“The university is close to home, and the campus is massive. There are so many degrees offered, you really can’t go wrong.”
Her journey at UJ was well spent. As someone who wanted to experience the university lifestyle, Surina achieved just that both academically and on the sporting field.
She has followed in her father’s footsteps showing athletic prowess in powerlifting.
“University life is part of her journey as an athlete. Surina is a powerlifter and has her national colours in powerlifting and also doing Olympic powerlifting,” said proud dad Jack Devnarain.
“This is something that is coming from the family, from my father’s lineage – he is a boxer and a lifter, he taught me and I competed for many years so it is such a privilege to pass this on to Surina. She has the opportunity to go into an academic achievement as well and that’s what this means to us.”
He added that the family was pleased that UJ allowed his daughter the opportunity to study something that she is passionate about.
“To combine her sporting life, career and achievements with academics was critically important for us.”
Growing up Surina watched her dad and brother compete in powerlifting and always knew she would eventually do it to.
“Not only does it run in the family but it is also a passion of mine that I plan to continue.”
Surina enjoyed her journey at UJ, spending time with and making friends, interacting with lecturers and learning more about sport.
“We are a sporting nation after all. I love being involved in sports and my future plans include continuing to be an athlete, helping othert to become better athletes and helping the industry with my qualification.”
Surina is excited to begin her new chapter and urges first years students to truly take in the moment and enjoy their time at university.
“Go out with your friends, meet new people, engage with the university and all it has to offer.”
©Higher Education Media Service.