Eighteen-year-old Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII of the Balobedu Nation in Limpopo has achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the first Balobedu Queen to obtain a Bachelor's pass in her matric examinations.
This momentous achievement is a source of immense pride for the royal family and the entire Balobedu nation, showcasing dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Officially recognised as the next Queen by President Cyril Ramaphosa in December 2024, Queen Masalanabo's commitment to education serves as an inspiration to young people across the country, highlighting the importance of education in achieving personal and societal progress.
Her journey to this success was not without its challenges. Dr Mathole Motshekga, the chief royal councillor of the Balobedu Royal Nation, shared insights into the Queen's early life: "She faced difficult times in her early life. When she came to stay with us, she moved from school to school. When we finally found a school for her, she couldn't qualify for grade 1," Dr Motshekga explained.
He detailed the support provided to the young Queen: "We had to arrange tutors and organise extra lessons for her. We found her a school, and she started in grade 5. Now, she's excited to have passed her matric. She's worked hard."
The Queen's academic success is not the end of her educational aspirations. Dr Motshekga revealed her plans for further studies: "She's happy to be the first Balobedu Queen to complete matric and plans to attend university to further her studies. We're still discussing her studies as we prepare for her inauguration," he said.
Queen Masalanabo is considering pursuing law or social development, aiming to contribute directly to the advancement of her nation. Dr Motshekga explained her motivation: "She wants to study law or social development, as this will benefit the development of the Balobedu nation. She's leading a modern society, so she wants to be a properly qualified queen and meet the standards of the people she leads." Her coronation is scheduled for March 2025 in Bolobedu.
Meanwhile, another young South African woman is celebrating her matric success. Naledi Aphiwe Myongwane, an 18-year-old singer, also achieved a Bachelor’s pass at Khethokuhle Secondary School in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal. Naledi's journey has been marked by both academic and musical achievements.
Despite her burgeoning music career, Naledi remained dedicated to her studies. Speaking to Daily Sun, she expressed her elation about her matric results: “I’m very happy about passing."
She confirmed her intention to continue her education alongside her music career: “I want to continue with school and study drama and music." Her ambitions extend beyond music, as she shared her dream of a career in television: “I'd like to be an actor one day, and I wish to be acting in one of the big telenovelas."
Reflecting on the past year, Naledi described it as a demanding but ultimately successful period: “2024 was the biggest year of my career. It was a hectic year for me, but I managed to balance and multitask. I had to prioritise the two most important things: school and music. I tried by all means to pass. I worked really hard,” she said.
She expressed gratitude for the support she received: “I'd like to thank the principal of my school, my teachers, who encouraged me to do well at school, as well as my family,” she added.
Both Queen Masalanabo and Naledi Aphiwe Myongwane serve as inspiring examples of dedication and the pursuit of excellence in various fields.
