Where there is a will there is a way, and for Unarine Ndou, a student at the University of Johannesburg, this was exactly the attitude needed to ensure that physical constraints do not hold him back from achieving his goals.
Earlier this year the Unarine suffered a major setback after he and several others were involved in a horrific bus accident on Kingsway Road near the UJ Aukland Park campus.
According to the university statement, 77 people were injured. As for the young ambitious Unarine, life would never be the same. The 22-year-old is reported to have suffered severe injuries which resulted in the amputation of his leg.
Speaking to his campus media, he said the only thing that came to his mind was wondering whether it was the end of his journey.
He explained that he found it a struggle to remain positive, but a mental shift allowed him to have a different outlook on life.
“The biggest enemy would have been getting stuck in the sympathy and pity from those around me,” he explained.
However, he found it within himself to become even more determined to make the best out of the situation and he resumed attending classes becoming even more dedicated than ever.
Recently, the University held its winter graduation ceremony where hard work paid off for the ambitious student after was awarded a Bachelor of Education degree and obtained several distinctions.
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Prof Lydia Mavuru, his mentor at the campus, describes his journey as being an inspiration to many.
“Unarine remained resolute in his pursuit of excellence. He never allowed his setback to derail his focus or diminish his drive,” said Prof.
His advice to others: “No matter how difficult the road ahead may seem, keep moving forward.”
Also see: Pitso Mosimane receives honorary doctorate from UJ
