My Journey of Second Chances with Ikamva Lolutsha
Introduction
Ikamva Lolutsha is a programme that helps youth create Life Plans in order to achieve their goals through a combination of life skills training, personal coaching, and ongoing mentorship.
The Beginning
My name is Siyakudumisa Botlani, from Glenmore Location in Peddie. I matriculated at Qhayiya Senior Secondary School. In 2023, I completed my Matric, a year that for many, marked new beginnings, excitement, and fresh opportunities. Unfortunately, my journey took a different turn. I did not apply to further my studies, and soon I found myself feeling stuck and deeply disappointed. Watching my former classmates move on to tertiary education while I remained stationary was not easy. I began questioning my choices, my worth, my dreams, my goals, and even my abilities. At times, I truly felt like I had failed in life.
Feeling Lost, but Not Broken
After matric, I took a gap year and worked at Glenmore Clinic. Although this period started with uncertainty, it became a turning point in my life. Being surrounded by healthcare professionals every day reminded me of a dream I once had, a dream I had almost forgotten.
That dream was, and still is, to become a nurse. In 2024 I was part of the Ubunye Life Skills programme and during the session I was asked about my dreams and goals, I felt like a failure because i had not achieved my goals and I was discouraged, but writing down my dreams and goals made me find a direction in life, It boosted my confidence and proved to me that I can actually do anything. It taught me determination and commitment. Being part of the Life skills training and working at the clinic reignited something inside me. It helped me realise that even though my journey had paused, my dream was still valid.
The Decision That Changed Everything
In 2025, I made a decision that changed my life, I went back to school and repeated Matric.
Repeating a grade is not easy. It requires mental strength, emotional resilience, and courage. People have expectations when you repeat a grade. They expect you to know everything, to never struggle, and to always have the right answers. That pressure can be overwhelming.
There were moments when I wanted to give up. Even during my final exams, I struggled emotionally, I lost my appetite and constantly battled fear and self-doubt.
Choosing Hope Over Fear
My mind was filled with negative thoughts: What if I fail? What if I don’t make it? What if I disappoint the people who believe in me? What if I disappoint myself?
But instead of letting those thoughts define me, I chose to replace them with positive affirmations:“I am going to do it. I am going to make it.”
And I did.
A New Chapter Begins
When my results were released, I was overwhelmed with joy. I had improved significantly, and seeing my marks reminded me that perseverance truly pays off. That moment validated every tear, every late night, and every moment of doubt.
Today, I am proud to say that I am furthering my studies at Rhodes University, with renewed confidence and belief in myself.
Conclusion: My Message to Others
My journey taught me that delays are not denials. Standing still does not mean you are finished. Dreams do not expire, and second chances are powerful.
If you ever find yourself feeling stuck, doubting your worth, or questioning your path, remember this, it’s never too late to start again.
