Former Mdantsane petrol attendant Siphesihle Nqoro, 29, is thrilled to to be starting his articles at an East London law firm.
Nqoro decided while working at the fuel pumps to become a lawyer.
He enrolled for a four-year bachelor of laws (LLB) degree at the University of Fort Hare and studied after hours while still pumping fuel.
Last year, he told DispatchLIVE of his struggle to keep academics and work on track, but the dedication and hard work has paid off.
He spoke of his burning ambition to become an attorney.
He passed his LLB at the end of last year and on Tuesday received the call that transformed his life. He was told he had been selected to do his articles.
The law firm did not want to be named.
He thanked his family, friends and supporters for their unwavering support.
On Friday, Nqoro bids farewell to the petrol station where he worked for eight years — and celebrates his 30th birthday.
On Monday, he puts on collar and tie and arrives at work to start as an articled clerk.
He thanked the fuel station owner Otto Gouws for allowing him to pursue his aspirations and passions.
“When the chance to do articles occurred, I approached my boss, who did not hesitate but advised me to pursue my aspirations.”
He said he felt terrified yet happy at the opportunity to move on with his life.
“It’s difficult to go from one’s comfort zone to another. I’m apprehensive, but this is the journey I need to take to become an attorney.
“I’m extremely pleased to be starting this new adventure. Dreams do come true, but it’s all about trusting God and the process.
“This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience. I will be representing clients in court, but as a candidate attorney.”
Fellow petrol attendant Pumezo Sisulu, who has known Nqoro for seven years, said he and his co-workers were thrilled but also sad.
Sisulu said Nqoro had inspired them all to believe in their own dreams.
“We are both saddened and excited because we have witnessed his devotion and hard effort. We all agree that hard work pays off.”
He said Nqoro’s story should encourage the younger generation to learn how to get ahead in life.
“He was a breath of fresh air and everything we needed, but he has to embark on this new path, and we are confident he will not disappoint us.”
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