From domestic worker to degree holder: Durban woman’s inspiring journey

From domestic worker to degree holder: Durban woman’s inspiring journey

We are filled with inspiration thanks to her journey!

Samkeliswe at her old job and at her graduation
Supplied by Unisa

In the heart of Stanger, lives a remarkable young woman named Samkelisiwe Ndlazi. 

Growing up in a home where her parents worked tirelessly to make ends meet, Samkelisiwe understood the value of education early on. Determined to break the cycle of poverty, she set her sights on higher education, despite the challenges ahead.

Samkelisiwe found a job as a domestic worker and enrolled at Unisa to study a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase.

With no initial funding, she worked hard to pay her tuition fees. Her father funded her first year, but the financial strain on her family was evident. In 2018, she took on a construction cleaner job, with every penny going towards her education. 

In 2019, a turning point came when she received funding from NSFAS. This alleviated some of the financial burden and allowed her to focus more on her studies. However, new challenges arose in 2020 with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Her hard work and dedication paid off when she graduated from Unisa.

The 27-year-old is excited to explore opportunities in her field and make a difference in her community through youth development programs. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, proving that with hard work and resilience, anything is possible.

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Images courtesy of Unisa

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