“She Used Muthi to Pass?”: The Truth Behind Nomfundo Mthembu’s Remarkable Matric Success
Nomfundo Mthembu, a top matric achiever from Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, has found herself at the center of controversy. Some of her close friends, instead of celebrating her outstanding academic results, have accused her of using muthi (traditional medicine) and black magic to succeed. But really? Is there any truth to this, or is it simply a case of jealousy over her hard-earned success?
The Real Story: Hard Work and Sacrifice
Recognizing that time was her most valuable resource, Nomfundo made the bold decision to rent a back room near Nkosi Ntulakabayise High School, where she studied. The long commute from her home had been eating into her study time, and she knew this change was necessary to focus on her goals.
- Early mornings: Starting school at 6:30 AM and finishing at 2:30 PM.
- Focused evenings: After a short rest and meal, she studied for four uninterrupted hours each night.
- Sacrificing sleep: She often endured sleepless nights to ensure she fully grasped her coursework.
Her disciplined approach paid off when she emerged as one of the country’s top matric achievers—an extraordinary feat, given that over 800,000 learners sat for the exams.
Baseless Accusations and Jealousy
Despite her accomplishments, Nomfundo’s success has drawn unwarranted criticism. Some of her peers, including close friends, have accused her of using muthi and black magic to attain her impressive results.
These accusations have been deeply hurtful for Nomfundo, who sacrificed so much to achieve her dreams. Reflecting on the rumors, she said, “It’s disheartening to hear such things, but I stayed focused because I knew the truth. I put in the work and took responsibility for my life.”
Family Support Amidst Negativity
Amid the backlash, Nomfundo has found solace in the unwavering support of her family. Her mother and uncle stood by her, encouraging her to ignore the rumors and focus on her bright future. Their words of reassurance helped her remain grounded and resilient in the face of negativity.
Achieving National Recognition
Nomfundo’s hard work and sacrifices were recognized when she received the unexpected news that she was among South Africa’s top matric achievers. Speaking about the moment, she shared her amazement:
“I still can’t believe it, but I know and am confident that I am deserving because I worked hard for this.”
A Bright Future in Medicine
Looking ahead, Nomfundo aspires to pursue a career in medicine. She has already taken steps toward this goal by applying to the University of Cape Town, where she hopes to begin the next chapter of her academic journey.
Her story is not just about academic excellence; it is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the power of a strong support system.
An Inspiration to Many
Nomfundo Mthembu’s journey from a small-town girl battling rumors to a celebrated national achiever is a story of triumph over adversity. Her success proves that hard work and determination can overcome even the most unfounded accusations.
As she continues to chase her dreams, Nomfundo serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and focus—an inspiration to learners across South Africa who may face their own challenges on the path to success.