At the age of 52, Nomzamo resident Phumi September graduated from Stellenbosch University with a bachelor’s degree in social work on Monday 27 March. Being orphaned as a child, alcohol abuse as a youth, along with episodes of self-destructiveness, are all factors that ultimately guided the influential township personality to turn her life around, chase her goals and be a beacon of hope to others (A story of hope and perseverance,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 9 March). Pictured with Phumi is her support structure – her best friend Nomonde Kondile (left), daughter Lilitha Williams (right) and son NjongoNkulu Williams. September is currently pursuing an honours in African languages, also at the university. Phumi hopes to pursue a master’s degree and possibly a PhD, as she reckons she still feels young and there’s a lot she still wants to do. Her advice to others is to keep working hard towards their goals.