​“In my first year, at the University I used to submit handwritten assignments because I did not have a computer. However, this propelled me to do better and hustle hard so I can have a better life”, said Pontsho Simelane. 
She is a former foster care beneficiary who is now a Biomedical Technologist at South African Blood Services, where she is responsible for quality control. She is also a motivational speaker. 

Simelane was speaking during the event organised by the Gauteng Department of Social Development to honour 120 foster care beneficiaries who passed their matric with flying colours held at Capital Hotel in Sandton North of Johannesburg. 

Simelane who matriculated some years ago at Reashoma Secondary School in Protea, encouraged the children to find their inner self and that will help them to determine what they want in life rather than to have others impose their ideas on them. 
She further said they should be able to go back to Social Development to demonstrate their success and inspire others to outshine adversity. 

One of the top achievers, 18-year-old Lehlogonolo Nhlapo, who got distinctions in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Science, and Accounting said his triple R philosophy got him through. 
Nhlapho said throughout the year he Reminded himself of the goals , created a daily Routine that got him Results". 

Annually the department host this event to celebrate the achievements of children who matriculated and obtained good results despite their circumstances. The children were given tablets and earphones as a token of appreciation.