SHARPEVILLE. –  If the story of this former Lekoa Shandu Secondary School learner, Kelebohile Chalatse does not leave you in tears, then perhaps you seriously need to ‘speak to your heart’.

From the dusty streets of Sharpeville through the hallways of Lekoa Shandu Secondary School, and to the University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) lecture halls, her journey has been marked by challenges, triumphs, and unwavering dedication.

Having faced, and seen, poverty and hunger in her childhood in the streets of Sharpeville, Chalatse is now in the third year of her Nursing studies, majoring in Midwifery at the University of Johannesburg where she also serves as the Deputy Chairperson of the Student Representative Council (SRC) under the Economic Freedom Fighters Student Command (EFFSC).

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Chalatse said that her grandmother was well-known in the community as a local ‘drunkard’, but few understood the depth of her dedication and sacrifice behind closed doors because despite facing ridicule and bullying due to her reputation (the grandmother), she (Chalatse) witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts her grandmother poured into her upbringing.

The 20-year-old now wants to be an inspiration to many girls in her community, in particular those of Vuka Section in Sharpeville.

Chalatse said that during her formative years at Lekoa Shandu, where she matriculated in 2021, she was fortunate enough to have been under the guidance and leadership of Principal, Mcedinsi Ngalo.

“In an environment where the prevailing social norms often dictated the fate of young individuals, Mr. Ngalo stood as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to defy the odds and strive for excellence. Despite the daunting pressures and uncertainties, I emerged from Lekoa Shandu Secondary School as the second-best performer in my grade 12 cohort.”

“Although nursing was not initially my intended path, I soon discovered a profound passion for it as I embarked on my journey to heal and support others. It is with this sense of duty that I am compelled to give back to my hometown of Sharpeville.”

Chalatse ended by saying that education has always been, and will continue to be, the key to success and that her journey from overcoming challenges in education to finding her passion and giving back to her community can inspire others facing similar struggles.

“Sharing my story can offer hope, and motivation to your readers who might be experiencing similar difficulties.”

Chalatse is planning to acquire a Ph.D. in Surgical Nursing and open her practice.

• Read about this inspirational story and many more others in Sedibeng Ster every week.