Rising above and keeping hope alive

Shakoor Lucas, Heideveld Senior Secondary School matriculant

My twelve-year school journey has been far from easy. It has been filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments when the weight of life felt too heavy to carry.

Growing up, I faced many realities that could have broken me, but I chose not to let them. Instead, I allowed them to shape me into someone who believes that even in the darkest moments, hope can still bloom.

At just 13 years old, I found purpose in my pain. I saw how poverty and circumstance could silence young voices, and I made a promise to help change that.

That promise gave birth to the Shakoor Lucas Foundation, a community initiative I founded to uplift youth, bridge the gap of poverty, and remind others that their dreams are valid - no matter where they come from.

There were times I almost gave up - nights filled with doubt, frustration, and exhaustion. But through it all, my faith and vision kept me grounded.

On Friday, October 17, during my valedictory ceremony at Heideveld High School, I was honoured as the top achiever in Afrikaans Huistaal, receiving first place and a trophy. In that moment, I realized that every trial, every tear, and every prayer had meaning. It reminded me that perseverance truly pays off.

To every matriculant and young person reading this: your struggles do not define you — your courage does. Life will challenge you, but don’t let it steal your spark.

Even when the world feels heavy, hold onto hope, because hope is what builds tomorrow. You are capable, you are chosen, and you are needed. Never stop believing in your story, because one day, your story will become someone else’s reason to keep going.