We got by each day even though we were not rich
Written , FinancesMy name is Mashudu. I am a young woman from Limpopo. I grew up surrounded by both my parents and grandparents. We were not rich, but we got by each day.
After I completed my matric in 2008, I had already applied at a University. I had achieved distinctions, so acceptance was easy, but I knew that my family would not have the money. My mom and my grandmother (who was now a widow after losing my grandfather the year before) did all they could so that I could register and I started applying for study loans. These loans didn't cover all the needs so my family still needed to assist. My struggles drove my parents apart leaving only my mom to deal with everything.
To cut a long story short, after all the sleepless nights, the no-food nights, no-warm-clothes winters and everything else, I graduated with an engineering diploma and I am working, studying further and engaged to the most amazing man. I can now take care of my family.
My biggest lesson is "circumstances must not cloud your vision to see the bright future ahead of you".
Featured
Learning and loving through friendship
Read more about Learning and loving through friendshipYou may also like
Making church a safe space for young people
At the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa’s Forum empowerment breakaway regional leaders had the chance to learn how they can create safe spaces for young people in their churches.
Read more about Making church a safe space for young people
I am not my work
Telamsile had to learn how to be herself and hold true to her values as part of a demanding career in an intense industry that doesn't always see the damage it can do in society.
Read more about I am not my work
Effective community mediation begins with empathy
Nobody wins during community unrest. At our recent peace-building Bridge event with clerics in the KZN region, the sentiment was clear: we cannot stand by idly and let division and unrest unfold. We need more community mediators.
Read more about Effective community mediation begins with empathy
Building peace is the work of the Church
"The Church needs to become mediators in the event of unrest. We need to represent to people what peace is. Churches should be a place of refuge to all, regardless of whether they are members or not.” – Rev. Samu Khanyile
Read more about Building peace is the work of the Church
We need our elders' stories
When elders share their stories, it bridges generational gaps, fosters understanding, and creates a sense of continuity between the past, present and future.
Read more about We need our elders' stories
Foreign nationals talk about their struggles in finding a home away from home
The Sister Mura Foundation is providing medical, financial, and emotional support while upskilling foreign nationals living with HIV/AIDS in SA.
Read more about Foreign nationals talk about their struggles in finding a home away from home