18-year-old foster child, Philemon Chihasha, is excited to have risen above challenges brought by the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Chihasha passed grade 12 at Qedilizwe Secondary School in Evaton, Sedibeng, with impressive results obtaining four distinctions. He attributes his achievement to his foster parents and the Gauteng Department of Social Development Social Workers.
"I am really grateful to have a support system from both the Social Worker and my parents, it helps me to have the strength to work even harder every day", he said.
Adding that even though it was not easy for any learner to study in 2020 due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, he was excited to be counted amongst those learners who made it despite the unprecedented difficulties.
Chihasha lost his mother at the age of four (4) in 2008 and he was forced to stay with his aunt Winnie Segasha who became his foster parent. He spoke fondly about his aunt saying she is one of the people who encouraged him not to lose focus.
"Growing up, life was just normal for me and I didn't even notice that I am an orphan, my aunt was loving and protective and hence she is everything to me. She taught me love, care, support and hard work".
Chihasha got distinctions in mathematics, physical science, life orientation, and life sciences. He is doing first year in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg. He was lucky to secure a bursary with the Gauteng City Region Academy bursary. Chihasha is indebted to the Gauteng Provincial Government and his family.
"I am grateful for the opportunity especially for people like us who grow up under difficult conditions in the townships, one really needs to grasp the opportunity with both hands, and I promise, I won't drop the ball now. I will forever be grateful for what the government has done for me. I will always cherish the moment as I climb the ladder. I want to say to young people out there that regardless of the conditions and the situation you come across, there is always hope, it is possible to be an achiever just like me".
His foster parent Winnie Segasha said she is proud to have a child like Philemon because he listens and is respectful, and he is not too much into friends.
"I like his determination and his love for schoolwork, he continues to be the pride and joy of the family", added Segasha.
Segasha thanked Gauteng Department of Social Development's unwavering support to her family and their contribution to other children in various communities.