Two-time Emmy-nominated comedian, Loyiso Gola just had a proud son moment. Today, his 58-year-old mother graduated from the University of the Western Cape. Loyiso’s mother has always dreamt of pursuing a higher education, but as a result of the South African apartheid, her dream was put on hold. Apartheid was a system of legalized racial segregation and discrimination put in place by South Africa’s National Party in 1948. Under its Extension of University Education Act of 1959, non-white students were not allowed to attend white universities, and Black institutions were segregated by ethnicity.
Human rights icon, Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to challenging this system and was later sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in a plan to overthrow the white minority government. In 1990, after serving 27 years in prison, Mandela was released. His negotiations with former president of South Africa, F.W. de Klerk, along with his involvement with the African National Congress, led to South Africa ending apartheid and evolving into a multiracial government. Although the dreams of a generation were hindered by apartheid, Loyiso’s mother is living proof that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.
My mom always wanted to go to university…apartheid made that difficult for https://t.co/HCUxm3zq78 SHE GRADUATES FROM UWC AT AGE 58. ✌ pic.twitter.com/mPlDXkpVGv
advertisement— Loyiso Gola (@loyisogola) April 13, 2017
Way to go, Mom! Your determination and academic accomplishment is an inspiration to us all.