Last week, we had the privilege of watching three of our four Matric boys dress up for their school’s end-of-year Matric dance. It was more than just a night of suits, ties, and photos; it was a milestone that marked the end of their schooling careers and the beginning of a new season in their lives. Seeing them step out with confidence reminded us how far they have come and, how much promise lies ahead. Seeing their smiles was a reminder of why we do what we do at LIV, turning stories of hopelessness into ones of victory and promise to the glory of God.
Each of our four boys have walked a road marked with its own challenges, yet they all chose perseverance over giving up and determination over discouragement. They showed up, they put in the work, and they sat down to write their finals with courage. Now, as they wait for their results, they have already taken steps toward their futures; applying for courses in engineering, music, tourism, and business at various universities and colleges. We are so proud of them and eagerly anticipate the opportunities that will open for them and would like to thank each person who has walked the journey with them over the years. It takes a village to raise a child and release a star!
While each of our boys has a story worth celebrating, Petrus’ journey beautifully reflects the impact of love, support, and the family he found at LIV. Here, in his own words, is his story:
“I am Petrus Van Wyk and my life started horribly, the living conditions I faced were enough to make me cry. There came a day when it all changed, I was taken from that place where I grew up to a place filled with hopes and dreams, a place called LIV Village.
The LIV village made everything possible for me, I was able to go to a proper school, I got to be raised by my caring foster parents, I could eat proper food and all the other things I could list if I were to make a whole list. My schooling journey has been very smooth as everything was provided for me, even my school uniform. I’ve always looked forward to finishing school, and here I am not because of me, but the people who cared enough to be there for me and push me even when times were tough.
The final exams were intimidating at first, but as we progressed through them, they weren’t as intimidating anymore. After writing my final examination, I know that I finally made it. After those exciting examinations came matric dance, I had very caring people to help me with preparations from my hair to my suit and finally to the cars and photo shoot. I have never imagined that I would be escorted to the matric dance in a Ford Mustang GT V8 5.0L with a 5.0 Litre V8 engine, that was a dream come true all thanks to the people who put it together for me. I really enjoyed the Matric dance, it was the highlight of my final year.
I have always wanted to become a mechanical engineer ever since the day I was born. Now that I have completed my matric it is time to pursue that dream head on. My dream to become the best mechanical engineer the world has ever seen starts here. I know very well that I have made a lot of people proud and I don’t doubt that.
With all that I have said I would really love to send out my appreciation to all the people who played major roles in my life.”
