In the heart of Zwelethemba the story of Lilitha Dlikilili, a four-time graduate, shines as a beacon of resilience and determination. A Worcester Gymnasium alumna, matriculating in 2010, with aspirations of taking a gap year, parental guidance led her to enrol at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Cape Town to study towards a National Diploma in Entrepreneurship, a path she initially hesitated to embrace.
Reflecting on her journey, Dlikilili shared: “When I heard of entrepreneurship I thought I needed a business and something to sell. But on enrolment I realised it was broader than I’d imagined, and I majored in business and finance.”
Navigating newfound independence and juggling work commitments, Dlikilili faced challenges that extended her expected completion time. Despite setbacks and personal tragedies, including the loss of her sister to gender-based violence, she persevered, completing her Bachelor of Technology in Management in Entrepreneurship in 2016. Battling depression and anxiety, Dlikilili continued her academic pursuit, obtaining her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training from North-West University in Potchefstroom via distance learning.
She did so while embracing the responsibilities of motherhood in 2019. “I remember submitting my first assignment just after my c-section with a newborn baby in my arms”
“I never envisaged becoming a teacher, as I was raised by teachers, but my father’s guidance steered me towards education. Despite the hurdles I managed to complete 19 modules in one year, earning my PGCE with eight distinctions.”
The passing of her mother and the father of her daughter in 2021 added to Dlikilili’s emotional journey, yet she remained steadfast in her commitment to academic excellence.
Dedicated to supporting her father and determined to defy the odds, Dlikilili pursued further studies, dedicating her honours in education to her late mother.
Despite her qualifications, she faces challenges securing employment, believing it’s due to political obstacles in her local area.
Nonetheless, Dlikilili’s resolve remains unshaken as she prepares to embark on a master’s degree, followed by a PhD with a firm belief in the power of resilience and adaptability.
“Never give up, flexibility will take you further,” was the wisdom she shared, particularly with others facing adversity.
“Take things as they come for there’s always a bigger picture. Whatever the adversity, things always work out in the end.”
As Lilitha Dlikilili’s journey continues and her story serves as an inspiration, reminding the world of the transformative power of perseverance and the indomitability of the human spirit.
