Against all odds: How Lerato Potsanyane achieved academic success without electricity

Resilience, consistency, and quiet determination defined Lerato Potsanyane’s matric year, a journey marked by top ten academic placements across three consecutive terms, selection as a Highflyer, and the quiet battles of studying without electricity, emotional pressure, and moments of self-doubt.

The 17-year-old from Forte Secondary School explained that her matric year was both demanding and highly rewarding, adding that growing up in a township taught her early on how to strive for excellence despite limited resources. 

She described exam periods as especially stressful, with high expectations and overwhelming workloads. 

“There were moments of self-doubt and fatigue, particularly when balancing revision with responsibilities at home. But seeing my effort reflected in my results kept me motivated.”

One of her proudest achievements was being in the top ten for three consecutive terms. 

“Being selected as a Highflyer and invited to a breakfast with the principal as one of the top five learners in my class were special moments that made me proud and inspired me to keep working hard,” she shared.

Looking ahead, Lerato aspires to study at a reputable university and pursue a career in health sciences, aiming to make a meaningful impact in her community. 

“My dream is to break generational barriers and show that where you come from does not limit where you can go,” she said.

She reflected that her results do not tell the whole story: “They don’t show the nights I studied in the dark when there was no electricity, the emotional pressure, or the moments I felt low on confidence. Behind my results is a story of perseverance and determination.”

The matric journey taught her lessons no exam mark could capture. 

“I learned how to manage stress, stay consistent even when things felt overwhelming, and ask for help when I needed it. Patience and resilience became my greatest tools,” she said.

To the Class of 2026, she offered this advice: “Work hard and stay consistent. Listen to your teachers and take their guidance seriously. Don’t stress too much over marks, focus on learning, growing, and putting in the effort. What you do now will pay off in the end.”

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za