Like so many learners, the Covid-19 pandemic robbed Haajir September of a memorable matric year. Lockdown meant no matric ball, no normal school routine and many lost milestones. 

But Haajir, who graduates this December with her BEd Foundation Phase, is no stranger to adversity. Raised by her single mother, Zubaida, on the Cape Flats, she says resilience was modelled for her from an early age. “My biggest inspiration has always been my mother and my family. They believed in my abilities even in moments when I doubted myself.” 

Zubaida recalls the financial pressure and emotional weight of being both mother and father during Haajir’s school years. “Through honesty, routine, love and a lot of prayer, we got through those years together. Those struggles shaped her into the strong, disciplined and resilient young woman she is today.” 

Throughout her time at Belgravia High School, Haajir kept her eyes firmly on her goal: to study further and build a better future. As the first child and grandchild in the family to attend university, she knew what that achievement would mean to the family.  

Challenging times 

But the journey was not without its challenges. Haajir learned in 2021 that her first application to SU had been unsuccessful. “It was a painful moment, but I held onto the belief that if something is meant for me, it will find its way to me at the right time.” 

Instead of giving up, she took a gap year to rewrite subjects and strengthen her application. Her mother remembers that once her improved results were submitted, SU accepted her. “This is proof that sometimes setbacks are detours, not dead ends.” 

“SU was always my first choice,” says Haajir. “I admired the academic standard, the sense of community, and the opportunities the institution offers. I wanted an environment that would challenge me to grow academically and personally.” 

Second time lucky 

In 2022, she began her studies at Stellenbosch University. Being selected as a Dell Young Leader became a turning point in her academic journey. The programme supports qualifying first-year financial aid students in four areas – academic, financial, wellness and career – to ensure that they graduate, “Looking back, Dell Young Leaders saw potential in me even before I fully recognised it in myself. Their mentorship, guidance and resources helped me navigate university with confidence and clarity.” 

University life also helped her broaden her worldview, says Zubaida. “Coming from the Cape Flats, Stellenbosch felt like a completely different country. Haajir used to joke that it felt like Europe. Being surrounded by people from all backgrounds helped her grow, become independent, and discover who she truly is.” 

Family pride 

For Zubaida, Haajir’s graduation is a deeply emotional milestone. “I’ve been crying for months,” says Zubaida. “Tears of happiness, gratitude, pride and sadness that her grandparents are not here to witness this. My mother never missed a single awards ceremony of hers. 

“We always believed in her potential, but we never dared to dream she would make it to university. Her becoming a first-generation graduate is a dream come true for our entire family. It is healing, it is historic and it is holy.” 

Looking ahead, Haajir plans to build on the foundation she has created, whether through further studies or beginning her professional career. “My aim is to grow, learn and make a meaningful impact in whichever space I enter.”