By: Siqhamo Jama

Ripfumelo Pascalia Chauke’s graduation from Rhodes University is more than a personal accomplishment, it is a symbol of hope for her community in Soweto and beyond. The first in her family to obtain a university degree, she has defied the odds, opposed expectations, and inspired many with her story.

Born and raised in a small township in Soweto, Ripfumelo’s early life was plagued by social and economic hardship. High school dropout rates, substance abuse, and unemployment were everyday experiences. But even in these circumstances, she dared to dream. “It doesn’t matter where you come from, who you are, or who your family is,” she says. “If you’re passionate about something, you will always achieve it.”

After completing her matric with a Bachelor’s Pass – another first in her family, she found herself unable to register at university due to financial constraints. Her parents were unemployed, and without access to funding, she had to take a gap year. “It was difficult watching my peers move on with their studies,” she reflects. “But I never lost sight of my goal. I had always wanted to study at Rhodes.”

That opportunity came a year later when she enrolled for a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Political and International Studies and isiXhosa Language Acquisition. With a keen interest in social issues and politics, her academic journey was not just a personal aspiration but a mission to better understand and possibly change the circumstances that shaped her upbringing. “Where I come from, many people don’t realise how much politics impacts their lives,” she explains. “I wanted to engage with those conversations and contribute to meaningful solutions for Africa.”

However, Ripfumelo’s stay at the University was not without challenges. Very quickly, she realised that surviving as a student, particularly one without financial support, demanded creativity and tenacity. She launched a hair salon from her residence room to support herself, later opening a tuck shop. “Balancing academics and entrepreneurship was tough,” she admits. “But I had no choice. I needed to survive and still perform.”

In addition to running her businesses and pursuing her studies, she immersed herself in leadership. She was with the University’s Community Engagement division, elected to her residence House Committee, and eventually became a student assistant. Each role added layers of responsibility and meaning to her university experience. “To be a Rhodes University student is to be a leader,” she says. “But before you can lead others, you must lead yourself.”

Despite these pressures, Ripfumelo completed her degree within record time and graduated with a distinction in isiXhosa Language Acquisition. Her academic performance and all-rounded engagement at Rhodes University are not just personal triumphs, they are a testament to the strength of students from marginalised communities. “Graduating means I’ve proven to myself and my community that it can be done. I want my story to show young people in Soweto that they don’t have to be statistics. They can be success stories.”

As she prepares to step into the next chapter of her life, Ripfumelo hopes to remain active in political and social development work. “I want to be part of the conversations that shape the future of this continent,” she says, “and I want to make sure my voice and the voices of others like me are heard.”

To students still working toward their degrees, her advice is earnest and direct: “Stay committed to your goals. Have self-discipline, especially if you’re juggling academics and a business. Self-discipline is the way out. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Go to mentors, lecturers, and community programmes. There’s always someone willing to walk the journey with you.”

Ripfumelo Chauke’s graduation is a powerful reminder that excellence is not reserved for the privileged, it belongs to those who rise, who persist, and who lead with heart.