As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2024, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. It was a year that taught me to believe in myself, to take risks, and to never give up on my dreams. In this essay, I invite you to join me on a journey of reflection, growth, and self-discovery.
As I stepped into 2024, I was filled with a mix of emotions, but mostly fear and self-doubt. I was about to start grade ten, and the challenging science subjects I had chosen did not make things any easier at all. I was certain that my decision would mark the end of my academic excellence. Which is why I decided to look for something to prove myself, eager to find something that would bring me a sense of pride and accomplishment.
I found myself drawn to writing competitions, mostly essay competitions. I entered my first one in January, eager to challenge myself and fulfill my desire for achievement. Having already resigned myself to not being among the top ten academic achievers at school due to my chosen subjects, this was a chance to prove myself. Fortunately, my efforts paid off, and I won first position in that competition. Winning was a huge confidence booster, and it made me realize that I had the potential to excel.
One of the most precious gifts I received was an unexpected friendship with Khumo, a beautiful connection that brought joy and depth to my life. This was just the beginning of a transformative time, as I also saw my relationships with my family flourish, and my connections with my teachers and others become stronger and more meaningful.
As the year 2024 unfolded, my mom realized that the school I was attending had become too expensive, leaving her with no savings. This led to a difficult decision: I had to change schools mid-year. Leaving behind the familiar surroundings, teachers, and friends I loved was heartbreaking. I had built strong connections and memories, and starting afresh was daunting. However, one thought motivated me: knowing this change would bring financial relief to my mom, giving her some savings. This thought gave me the strength to face the transition with courage and optimism.
When I arrived at my new school, I was struck by the high level of competition and the huge number of smart kids. Instead of intimidating me, they motivated me to push harder. I believed that if they could achieve excellence, I could too. This mindset shift led to a breakthrough: my first distinction in Physical Sciences, an impressive 94%, thats when I finally noticed my academic capability. I also secured third position among the top academic achievers. That is when I realized that nothing could hold me back, not even the science stream I chose, which society often regards as the hardest.
To close off my 2024 chapter, it was a special family time. We flew to Durban, and what made this trip even more exciting was the fact that it was my first time flying. It was a truly beautiful experience, and I believe it was exactly what I needed after a tough year. Following all the challenges I’d faced and the times I’d felt down, it was the perfect time for a proper holiday and a fresh start. We welcomed the new year together, and it felt like the perfect ending to a remarkable year.
In conclusion, 2024 taught me that life’s unexpected challenges can be overcome with determination and hard work. To anyone reading my story, I want to leave you with this: never doubt yourself, never underestimate your potential, and never give up on your dreams. You are capable of achieving greatness, and I hope my journey inspires you to believe in yourself and unlock your full potential.
By: Lucia Ntimba
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