From prayer to distinction: How two Grace Bible Church Midrand stars achieved academic excellence

Two exceptional young women from South Africa's educational tapestry have emerged not only as academic stars but as embodiments of resilience and hope.

Sedibana Ngoasheng, an 18-year-old from Midlands, and Dzunisani Mabulwana, likewise 18, from Midrand, have each carved their pathways to academic excellence in the face of daunting challenges. Both of them were among the matriculants honoured during the Grace Bible Church's annual Achievers Awards on Sunday, 26 January 2025, an event that celebrates outstanding academic performance among its youth members. They serve at the church's Midrand Cathedral. Coincidentally, they both plan to enrol at Wits University this year.

Sedibana said of the awards ceremony, "This is the most remarkable honour. Of all the things I had trusted the Lord for this was among the most momentous. Getting the opportunity to be among the first matriculants representing the Midrand branch, was just the greatest privilege."

Dzunisani was also full of gratitude for the church, led by Bishop Mosa Sono. "I feel extremely grateful and honoured to have been recognised on such a platform. This means so much to me because I am the first in my entire clan to have received results of such high calibre. This is a day in my life that I will never forget, because God had shown me overflowing grace and favour. I would like to thank Bishop Mosa Sono for preaching the unadulterated Word of God that helped me grow spiritually despite all the challenges I was faced with. He helped me realise that being a born-again Christian comes with great challenges and that I just need to trust God to help me overcome them."

Dzunisani Mabulwana receiving her trophy and cheque from Grace Bible Church's Mabishop Gege Sono. Picture: Supplied

Sedibana's journey, which saw her graduate from Midstream College with eight distinctions out of nine subjects, well above the national average of 40.9% Bachelor's passes, has been anything but ordinary. As a young black female learner, she faced stereotypes and biases, yet she managed to dispel these notions with an unwavering spirit and an unshakeable belief in her faith. "When you realise the potential God has placed in your life, you have no choice but to do everything in your power to reach it," she proclaimed, citing her favourite biblical reference, "Daniel distinguished himself," which has served as a guiding principle throughout her academic pursuits.

The pressures of matriculation weighed heavily on her, yet Sedibana embraced these challenges, describing herself as being in "survival mode" since joining Midstream. Her approach to studying was inventive; she experimented with varied techniques, blending traditional methods with collaborative peer discussions and digital resources. "Discovering what works for me was crucial," she noted, particularly when mastering complex subjects like Further Studies Mathematics.

Despite her initial disinterest in physics, the vital contributions of her family and teachers propelled her forward. In particular, her heartfelt gratitude towards her teacher, Cheryl Grant, underscores the importance of mentorship in her educational journey. "My teacher has done more for me than I have words to express," she reflected, a testament to the profound impact supportive figures can have on learners' lives. She said another teacher, Saras Rugbar spoke to her "with realness so genuine it really shaped my character in a place where I very often felt outcast and misunderstood. Her wisdom is unmatched."

Sedibana Ngoasheng got eight distinctions out of nine subject in matric. Picture: Supplied

Looking to the future, Sedibana is poised to pursue a degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand, a choice that aligns with her ambitions and her dedication to giving back to the community. Her philosophy resonates deeply with a commitment to stay present and embrace the moment, urging others not to be overwhelmed by life's uncertainties.

Meanwhile, Dzunisani has also made headlines by achieving a remarkable seven As in her matric examinations at Midrand High School. Her academic journey has been equally inspiring, shaped by a loving family and a resolute faith. Born in Midrand and educated in the local primary and high schools, Dzunisani faced the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, which prompted her parents to make a pivotal decision to transfer her to Midrand High School.

"My grades improved drastically after the move, and I attribute this progress to strengthening my relationship with God," she shared. With her brother's academic accomplishments providing additional motivation, she resolved to honour her family through her achievements. "I wanted to make my parents proud," she said, reflecting the essence of familial inspiration that fuels many young learners in South Africa.

Dzunisani Mabulwana scored seven distinctions in seven subjects. Picture: Supplied

Dzunisani meticulously balanced her time, blending rigorous study schedules with personal commitments. Her faith played an integral role; Sundays were reserved for serving at church, proving that academic excellence isn't solely about studying but also about nurturing one's spiritual well-being. She developed effective study techniques, including Active Recall and Spaced Repetition, dedicating three hours daily to her studies, with an increased focus as exams approached.

Resilience defined Dzunisani's matric year, particularly in tackling subjects she initially struggled with. Her father, a figure of strength for her, instilled the invaluable lesson that one's background does not define their future. "It's about what you do with your life that matters," she emphasised, reflecting on the importance of belief and perseverance. She plan to enrol for a Bachelor of Accounting Science and become a Chartered Accountant.

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