By Larry Urish, contributing writer
The word “unbuntu” refers to an African values system that stresses the intimate relationship between individuals and their social and physical surroundings. Often translated as “I am because we are,” it serves as a reminder that people are continually shaped by their connection with others.
Recent Cal State Fullerton graduate Joshua Bhasera learned to embrace unbuntu at an early age, and the concept underscores much of who he is and what he does. Thanks to his giving nature – along with his dogged determination and academic accomplishments – not only was the Zimbabwe native deemed this year’s Outstanding Undergraduate Student in Psychology, but CSUF also granted Bhasera the Alumni Association’s Outstanding Senior Award, further honoring him by selecting him as a speaker at one of last month’s commencement ceremonies.
Then again, Bhasera has been honoring the university since the moment he first stepped onto the campus in 2022. While carrying a full academic load, he demonstrated keen research and study-presentation skills while volunteering for an assortment of worthy causes.
Bhasera repeatedly identifies the source of his giving nature. “My parents emphasized that other people are important,” he said. “‘Unbuntu’ puts the group ahead of the individual.”
His parents led by example. “They were very involved with our community (Kadoma, a mining town), especially with church,” Bhasera said. “For example, there was an old-people’s home near where we lived, which was in a state of neglect. They found out and began volunteering there in 2007. Since then, they’ve done everything they can to help out.” Their altruistic behavior extended to a local school for the blind and a children’s home, among other efforts.
Bhasera and his siblings regularly joined their folks. “It’s deeply humbling to be part of that work, alongside my parents,” he said. “You can’t do that and not appreciate your own life and the good circumstances you’ve been given. It gives you humility about life.”
Succeeding at CSUF wasn’t easy for Bhasera. “He left home at 12 to go to boarding school in South Africa, because his parents felt his education was so critical,” said Lisa Mori, clinical psychologist and CSUF professor of psychology who mentored Bhasera.
Bhasera came to the U.S. in 2019 to attend Fresno City College and transferred to CSUF in the spring of 2022 because of the university’s academic notoriety and diverse environment.
“Imagine being so young and on your own, in a completely different culture and country, away from anybody you know,” Mori said. “What’s even more astonishing is his fortitude and maturity to persevere and achieve so much under those circumstances.”
Prior to starting at CSUF, Bhasera worked at an adolescent substance abuse inpatient facility. It’s no surprise that he decided to focus on clinical psychology, given his caring nature.
“Studying psychology is an extension of my overarching purpose to serve others,” he said. “It allowed me to help people while getting an education.” His interested in a clinical emphasis coalesced with his first clinical psych class, taught by Mori. “That’s where the passion (for the specialty) all came together, like the pieces of a puzzle.”
Bhasera’s academic prowess soon extended to clinical research. “He was an amazing research assistant, and he’s always been a great student,” said Sherry Guler, a CSUF graduate research assistant pursuing a master’s in psychological research.
Mori concurs: “In only one year, Josh was the ‘first author’ of two undergraduate study presentations and served as ‘second author’ in studies at two additional conference presentations. For an undergraduate to do this in just one year, it’s pretty amazing.”
One such study looks at the influence of adverse childhood experiences on college students’ mental health. “Sherry (Guler) led the study, and I assisted,” Bhasera said. However, said Guler, “Josh helped me every step of the way. … My biggest goal for him was to let him get hands-on experience from start to finish, including our presentation at the conference.”
The conference in question was the Western Psychological Association’s annual convention in San Francisco, which took place in April.
While at CSUF, Bhasera volunteered early and often. He served as an “ambassador” at the Counseling and Psychological Services’ Wellness Room; as secretary of the Psychology Department Student Association; and as a “wish-granting intern” at the Orange County and Inland Empire chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
After taking a year off to return home and travel, Bhasera plans to earn a master’s degree in clinical psychology. One of his passions: providing equal access to quality mental health care for all, regardless of their financial situation.
Mori is one of many who see a great future for Bhasera. “He’s a very special person, and he’ll achieve great things and make a difference in the world. It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with him.”
