"I spent most of my days studying without food and I turned my hunger in to fasting and that was a most difficult part of my childhood". That's according to a 23-years-old Thembela Mtoto, who recently completed his Law Degree (LLB) at the University of North West.
Mtoto said, "Being a foster child was not easy, while at school I used to go to bed without having had anything to eat. I became an orphan after my parents passed away in 2004. After parents' death, I was fostered by my grandmother in 2005, who took care of me until her untimely death in 2009. Following the old lady's passing my aunt became my foster parent, she came to live with me at my parents' house. 
My Aunt was receiving foster care grant on my behalf without my knowledge. It came to my attention that I was a beneficiary of the foster grant in 2015; I subsequently approached the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) to discontinue the grant".
Mtoto stayed determined regardless of the challenges he faced growing-up. In 2016 he matriculated, a year later he moved out of the house following his acceptance at the University of North West. He attributes his success to discipline.
"I grew up as a strong person and I worked hard at school, not forgetting the support I got from two social workers, Rachael Rambasa and Viva Setati from the West Rand Regional office. I regard them as my parents because they were with me throughout my journey even after I got out of foster care system.
I once attempted to commit suicide due to the difficulties I experienced in my life, but because of the love the Social Workers gave me I pulled through."
He added that his journey to get a Law Degree at the University was not easy financially. Mtoto was awarded a bursary by a private company and without warning it stopped funding. But despite this he continued with his studies, however he cannot graduate due to outstanding fees and accommodation that he owes.
"I am also trying to find a job so that I can pay my fees and serve articles. I hope something will come up; I want to be independent as currently I am staying at my friend's place. I would like to encourage foster children to work hard as to change their lives for better. I also thank the department for the vital role they play in our lives. I will forever be grateful to GDSD. One day I would like to own a law firm and assist the most vulnerable children in communities. I believe if I can assist 10 people now, those people can assist 100 and the nation can become better".
Anyone who will like to assist Mtoto can contact him on 063 099 0028 or 067 652 7286.