“It’s possible to achieve your dreams. You can try and fail, but never fail to try. Always keep pushing, and everything is possible.”

These are the words of 18-year-old Queen Nhlapo, a resident of New Jerusalem Children’s Home, who is preparing to leave South Africa for Russia after being awarded a full bursary to study biotechnology.

Queen, who has lived at the home in President Park for the past 11 years, matriculated last year. Her bursary, awarded by the Department of Higher Education and Training, will cover her studies, accommodation, and living needs.

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New Jerusalem Children’s Home has long been recognised as a sanctuary and support system for abandoned, vulnerable, orphaned, and traumatised children from birth to 18 years old.

For Queen, the home became not just a place of safety, but the foundation from which her dreams could grow. “I have four siblings, and I’ve been living in this orphanage since I was six years old,” she said.

“I feel like I’ve overcome a great milestone for myself and my siblings. I have four sisters that I feel like I have to take care of and be a role model for. I felt like I did it for them. Academically, I’m just proud of myself that I’ve put in the hard work, and it’s truly paying off.”

She recalled the moment she received her bursary confirmation, a moment filled with joy and disbelief. “I was so happy and excited. I felt like my dreams were finally coming true.”

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As she prepares for her journey to Russia, Queen said she is eager to step into a world she has only seen in books and film. “I’m most excited about the fact that I’ll be out of the continent for the first time, experiencing snow, advanced education in Russia, and exploring new things.”

Queen expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who supported and believed in her along the way.

“I want to thank Mme Anna Difo Mojapelo [the home’s founder] for allowing me to stay at New Jerusalem. Having shelter, food, and people who cared for me gave me the push to work harder,” she added.

“I also want to thank my siblings, who motivated me to study; my best friend, Karabo Malo, has been with me throughout high school, studying and making sure we get the marks we deserve, [as well as] Mr Hopkins Kaira; and all the house mothers and fathers at New Jerusalem.”

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