Two inspiring young individuals have overcome significant challenges to emerge as some of South Africa’s top-performing matriculants. Their stories of resilience, determination, and excellence were celebrated at a congratulatory breakfast hosted by the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, at the MTN Innovation Centre in Fairland, Johannesburg.
### Malwandla Baloyi: Triumph Over Pain
Seventeen-year-old Malwandla Baloyi, from Pretoria’s New Hope School, was stunned to learn she is among the country’s top matriculants. Living with brittle bone disease—a genetic condition that causes fragile bones and constant pain—Malwandla’s journey to success was anything but easy. She also suffers from scoliosis, a spinal deformity that exacerbates her discomfort, particularly during winter.
“Winter was especially challenging,” she shared. “My bones would hurt, and I missed several school days because of the pain.” Despite these obstacles, Malwandla remained steadfast in her commitment to academic success.
Reflecting on her achievement, she said, “It feels overwhelming because I worked so hard. I’m still in shock.” Malwandla, who has been conditionally accepted at Stellenbosch University, Wits, and the University of Pretoria, dreams of earning a doctorate in psychology. She plans to attend Stellenbosch University to begin this journey.https://twitter.com/joy_zelda/status/1878878615640875385?s=19
### Kabelo Kekana: Vision Beyond Sight
Twenty-year-old Kabelo Kekana, from Rivoni School for the Blind in Limpopo, also achieved national recognition as one of South Africa’s top matriculants. Despite being visually impaired, Kabelo approached his exams with confidence and preparation.
“While others were stressing about their exams, I already knew what was expected of us,” he said. “I didn’t let my disability hold me back. I wanted to prove I was capable of excelling.”
Kabelo’s teacher informed him just three days before the event that he would be invited to the breakfast with the minister. “At first, I didn’t believe it, but when I got the call, it felt real. Everyone at home was so happy,” he said.
Kabelo has applied to study law, civic psychology, or business management at Wits University and the University of Limpopo. His ultimate goal is to inspire others to rise above their circumstances.
### Kwazi Sitsheke: A Future in Engineering
Eighteen-year-old Kwazi Sitsheke from Tutor Ndamase Secondary School in the Eastern Cape was also honored at the event. Kwazi admitted that the exams were challenging, but his determination and love for mathematics and physical science carried him through.
“The exam papers were different from what I was used to, but I pushed myself,” he said. Kwazi plans to study engineering at the University of Cape Town (UCT) or the University of the Western Cape, with aspirations of becoming a mathematical scholar.
### A Celebration of Determination
The achievements of these young individuals serve as a testament to their resilience and hard work. Despite physical and environmental challenges, they have proven that success is possible with determination and a strong support system.
As they embark on their academic journeys, their stories will undoubtedly inspire many others to overcome adversity and reach for their dreams.