Eighteen-year-old Precious Malope from the Delmore informal settlement is living proof that humble beginnings, poverty and geographical location do not determine one’s future.

Despite facing severe socio-economic challenges, Precious emerged as Balmoral College’s top achiever in the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
She obtained six distinctions – in mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, information technology, life orientation and Afrikaans first additional language – and achieved 79% in English home language.

Her academic excellence has earned her admission to the University of the Witwatersrand, where she will study for a Bachelor of Commerce in Information Systems, her first-choice qualification.

Hard work paid off
She described 2025 as one of the most difficult years of her life. “It was not a year for fun, partying or going out. I completely shut out the world and focused on my dream.
“I followed a strict study schedule, attending all the afternoon, weekend and holiday classes, putting in long hours every day. Even in the toughest times when things felt overwhelming, I remained disciplined, and motivated that it would pay off in the end.

“It was tough, but my hard work finally did pay off.
“I am very proud of myself for what I have achieved, and I hope my story inspires other learners, especially those from my community,” she said.

Precious said she had always believed that education was her pathway out of poverty. “From a very young age, I told myself that I want to be successful, to become a superstar, do well in my education and travel the world, as I love learning about different cultures and traditions.”

Overcoming a lack of resources
Repeated financial challenges, and growing up in an informal settlement without electricity made her journey extremely difficult, but Precious refused to let her circumstances define her future.

“Our living conditions are not conducive for learning, but these challenges only affect you if you allow them to,” she said.
“Success does not come only from money or resources. It also comes from hard work, discipline, dedication and self-belief.”

Struggle to pay school fees
Relying on money earned from low-paying occasional jobs, Precious’ parents struggled to cover the educational expenses of their daughter. Yet, she refused to give up and continued to dream big, despite the fewer resources.

The financial situation became worse when she reached Grade Nine. However, relief came when Precious represented her school in provincial mathematics and physical sciences Olympiads, attracting the attention of a school sponsor.
“The sponsor took over my school fees, which lifted a huge burden. I didn’t have to worry about being sent home or losing concentration. It inspired me to keep working hard to show my appreciation.”

Gratitude and support
Precious credited her success to the unwavering support of her mother, teachers, her sponsor and close friends.

“My mother has always been my pillar of strength. Without a parent who believes in success, a child can easily drift away,” she said.
“My teachers never gave up on me. Even when I struggled with anxiety or things were difficult at home, they were there, reminding me of my potential.”

She also paid tribute to her best friend, Maxine. “Peers can make or break you. We motivated each other to focus on building legacies, not temporary pleasures.”

A message to learners
Precious urged matriculants to believe in themselves and block out negativity.
“My journey is proof that you don’t need to have a privileged family or luxury to learn, you need dedication and the desire to succeed.

“Matric marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Decide what you want to do with your life and don’t let other people’s opinions define you. You don’t have to be the best, but if you have the mentality of wanting to succeed, you will get there.”

Breaking generational poverty
While she dreams of building a house and buying a car for her parents, Precious said her ultimate goal is to break generational poverty.
“Helping my siblings, cousins and fellow residents is how we can truly change our situation.”

She believes the biggest challenge facing her community is a defeated mindset.
“Many people where I live have given up on success. Hence, I want to prove that even from an informal settlement, success is possible if we change our mentality and work hard.”

A proud mother
Precious’ mother, Rifilwe Malope, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s achievement.
“The journey was very hard, but she never gave up with her unwavering dedication to education. She always told me she would make me proud, and she did,” said

Rifilwe. Malope encouraged parents to support their children despite hardships.

“Support them through thick and thin. God is the pillar. I also thank the sponsor for helping my child – everything she is today is partly because of your support.”

Community members, including neigbours have also congratulated Precious for representing them with distinction, hailing her as a beacon of hope for the informal settlement.
The school also congratulated Precious for her excellent performance.

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