Cape Town - A YOUNG intellectual is gunning for greatness but will need a contribution to make her dream a reality.
Mihlali Fokazi ,15, has been chosen for the Academic Achievers tour to America next year October. She is among 30 other top Grade 9 achievers at Milnerton High School.
The Academic Achievers School Tour Initiative is for bright high school pupils who are selected for their unrivalled academic achievements and dedicated work ethic. As part of the tour they will visit some of the best universities in the US.
She needs to raise R70 000 to cover her travelling fees, accommodation and pocket money.
“This trip to the US means the world and so much more to me. Not only will it give me the experience to travel internationally, which I’ve always longed for, but visiting some of the best universities will just be so awesome for my own personal growth,” said Mihlali.
She said the academic institutions include Yale, Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where they will get an opportunity to exchange ideas with some of the world's great minds.
Fokazi is passionate about mathematics and physical science and she aspires to be a neurologist as she is “fascinated by how the brain and body work together”.
She said her single mother Siphokazi was a strong role model who has entrenched in her an attitude of determination, discipline and consistency.
“From childhood, I was taught that as a woman you have to fight your way up the ladder of success. I've always been surrounded by warriors who inspire me... my aunts, grandmothers, and the church community,” said the teen.
Her English teacher Anna Bosman described her as one of the hard working, provocative learners who is always eager to learn.
“She is very determined, she loves challenges and she likes challenging herself and those around her and especially me in class. She is tenacious when it comes to finishing her work and extremely diligent.”
Her mother described her as a resilient child after having battled depression brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“So when lockdown came and she suddenly found herself stuck at home with two siblings and having to study on her own with no teachers to guide her, and with no friends to hang around with. It really hit her hard and she developed depressive symptoms,” said the mother.
She said the lockdown turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it taught her daughter to be independent and push herself.
If you want to help Mihlali fulfil her dream see website https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/mihlali-fokazi