Ouma Corrie from Muldersdrift celebrates her 102nd birthday

Many young people go through adversity and often find themselves lost and not having any sense of direction as to how they can navigate life. They often seek someone who can give them a sense of direction to overcome their challenges or resolve their problems, and who is better than a wise woman who has seen and been through it all?

Corrie van Lelyveld just celebrated her 102nd birthday on July 26 and would like to share her words of wisdom with many young women who may be lost and are seeking guidance.

She was born on July 26, 1921, and has lived long enough to witness World War II, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and witness South Africa’s transition from an apartheid state to a democratic and inclusive nation.

She was born and raised in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga as the oldest of seven children. Corrie grew very humble with her father being a construction worker and her mother a stay-at-home mom who ensured that her children were well taken care of. Corrie attributes her life to God as she was raised in a strict Christian home and believes that her faith is what kept her living a long, fruitful life. She recalls how her father would encourage her and her siblings to keep a strong faith by reading the Bible and praying.

“I grew up in a Christian home and I was the oldest daughter and every evening after supper we would pray and read the Bible. It was very important when growing up, I remember my father even made us recite a portion of the Bible after each prayer session. Even today, in the morning, I do my prayers and keep in touch with God, my Bible is very precious to me.”

With Women’s Month celebrations to continue throughout August, she would like to share her secrets about her longevity and what she believes makes a strong woman.

“Being a woman is a difficult role because you have to play the role of being mommy and daddy. You have to be strict but also be loving and caring. But we can’t do it on our own, my advice to young women is to find your path and live your life. Always live a healthy life and take care of your loved ones.”

Ouma Corrie is loved and appreciated by her family members. Her granddaughter Denise Jonker only has words of praise for her grandmother for how much she has helped her.

“Granny is a very strong lady, she is set in her ways and has taught me to never give up. She is kind and has a good heart.”

Her daughter and son-in-law Alta and Alister Dewar only have words of praise for her.

“She is very warm and welcoming, she’s very quiet but nurturing in her way,” said Alister.

Ouma Corrie lives comfortably with her family of four different generations on a small plot in Muldersdrift.