​“The support I got from the Gauteng Department of Social Development is amazing to ensure I have everything, enabling me to focus on my studies”. That’s according to a 17 years-old Yamkela Vikilahle from Fochville in the West Rand, who recently completed her matric.
Vikilahle said being a foster child is not easy but with the support she got from the Gauteng Social Development, Social Worker Phindile Lekgau, she succeeded in her schooling years.

Vikilahle was fostered in 2009, after her parents passed away. Her father died when she was 7 years old doing grade 2. Her mother died in 2016 when she was 12 years old, and her grandparents took care of her. They became her foster parents after her grandmother approached Social Development for assistance to apply for a foster grant. During this process they were assisted by a Social Worker until the court approved their application.

She added that “I stayed determined regardless of the challenges I encountered losing both parents at an early age”

In 2021 she matriculated with a Bachelor and three distinctions in Xhosa, Maths Literacy and Business studies. She has been accepted at Wits University for Bachelor of Law (LLB).

“I grew up very strong, working hard at school through the support I got from West Rand Region’s Social Worker Phindile Lekgau. I regard her as my parent because she was with me throughout my journey to date. She always ensured that I have everything I needed so that I focus on my studies. She also monitored my school progress and that kept me motivated.

Now I am determined to start and complete LLB. I strongly believe that I will make it with the support of my grandparents and Social Worker. I would like to contribute positively to our justice system. I would also like to encourage other foster children to focus.

Have a vision, mission and be goal driven. Never let the current circumstances define your destination”, added Vikilahle.