It is one thing to dream; it is another to hold onto the dream when life makes it feel distant.

For New Jerusalem Children’s Home resident Queen Nhlapo, the road was not simple, but her determination never dimmed. Today, her dream has found wings.

The 18-year-old is preparing to leave South Africa for Russia after being awarded a full bursary by the Department of Higher Education and Training to study biotechnology. The bursary will cover her studies, accommodation, and living needs.

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Queen matriculated last year and has lived at the home in President Park for the past 11 years. 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.”

As she prepares for her journey to Russia, Queen said she was eager to step into a world she had 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.”

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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.

“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.”

She concluded that one could achieve their dreams. “You can try and fail, but never fail to try. Always keep pushing, and everything is possible.”

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