KZN teen makes R300k VIP entrance at his matric dance
Updated | By Udesha Moodley-Judhoo
Lorenda Vincent, a mother of three decided to pull out all the stops for her son at his matric dance.

As a parent, you want to give your child the best.
For Pietermaritzburg mother, Lorenda Vincent, it was a no-brainer to give her 18-year-old son, Demais Pillay, an over-the-top matric dance experience. Pillay arrived in style as he descended from a helicopter at his matric dance held at the Golden Horse Casino in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
Pillay didn't just make a grand entrance; he was also dressed to impress in his Versace outfit, with matching shoes and a flashy Rolex watch.
But this wasn't just about creating a memorable moment for Pillay. Of course, a matric dance is a milestone moment for many kids. It is a coming-of-age celebration that marks the end of their school journey and the beginning of young adulthood. A time to celebrate with friends and family and focus on their achievements.
For Pillay, it was a symbol of triumph, not just for him but also for his family.
Pillay underwent a challenging time with his family two years ago when he was left with a spinal injury that left him with a 50 percent chance of walking again. He injured himself at his school's fun day.
His mom told The Witness, "That was the darkest time of our lives, but I didn’t have it in me to give up on my son. Doctors told us there was a 50/50 chance he’d walk again."
It was Vincent's will to never give up on her son; their family and faith that got them through the challenging time.
Pillay attends Carter High School in Pietermaritzburg and intends to study engineering or medicine.
I’m happy, and my mother has been there for me during the most difficult period of my life.- Demais Pillay
Vincent organised the helicopter entrance and the designer suit as a surprise. Pillay was overcome with joy after experiencing his mother's surprise.
The surprise is said to have cost around R300,000, and while it may seem like an exorbitant amount, this was more than just about the money. It was a celebration of life for Pillay and his family.
He was grateful for his mother's support, even when he found it challenging to believe in himself.
He’s my only son. I have two daughters. After everything he’s been through, this dance isn’t just about glitz and glamour. It is about celebrating life, faith, and determination.- Lorenda Vincent
Pillay said: "I couldn’t have imagined this two years ago. It’s not just a dance, it’s proof that I made it. She made me believe that I could walk again, and I believed her, and today I’m back on my feet again."
Watch the video from Instagram of his matric dance entrance.

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