Battling adversity to finish on top

JUST outside Empangeni in the rural area of Mevamhlope, the story of a 20-year-old matriculant has emerged to lend hope to others.

Lungelo Zungu has battled through adversity for most of his life, facing the hardships of growing up in rural KZN without his parents to support him.

Despite the many obstacles placed in his way, Lungelo stayed focused on his goal of making history.

When the National Senior Certificate results came out last week, this Mevamhlope High School pupil took his first steps into the history books, earning no less than six As.

‘A friend of mine who also attended Mevamhlope High finished his matric and earned six As in 2011,’ said Lungelo.

‘Today he is in Cuba studying medicine. In many ways, he was my inspiration.’

Life’s path was difficult for Lungelo from the start.

Owing to financial constraints he started school late, and was forced to move while in Grade 2.

He had to start Grade 2 afresh at the age on 9.

And then, he lost his mother when he was only 13.

‘Since my mom passed away I have been staying with my grandmother,’ he said.

‘I am lucky that she and my uncle, who is a nurse, have always supported me and pushed me to work hard.’

In 2010, Lungelo finished Grade 6 and 7 in one year.

‘Since then I always knew I wanted to make history. In 2015, my uncle told me I would have to put some of the fun things aside, and concentrate on studying.’

While his friends were at soccer practice, Lungelo would be at home, hitting the books.

As a result, he earned As for Zulu, life orientation, geography, life sciences, physical sciences and tourism.

‘I would love to study medicine,’ he said.

‘Unfortunately I applied a little too late, but I am waiting to hear from the University of KZN if they have accepted me for another programme.’

Despite his conditions not being ideal, Lungelo is looking forward to life’s challenges.

‘I am happy and excited for 2016, I am ready to take on life, and I won’t stop until I have achieved my dreams.’