It seems like only yesterday when we were first introduced to this bright and ambitious young lady from Sir Lowry’s Pass Village. Educational Psychologist Marja and I were instantly impressed as Camilyn declared that ‘she wanted to be either an architect or an engineer.’ One seldom witnesses this kind of decisiveness when discussing potential careers with adults in their 20s, let alone young high school students. But we were soon to discover that this was no typical teenager: Camilyn had made her decision and she would achieve it, regardless of the obstacles in her way.
At the time, SOS Africa’s child sponsorship scheme had begun to flourish, thanks to an increase of sponsors in South Africa, the UK and across the globe. It had become clear that this exciting initiative, which sought to match up philanthropic individuals with motivated children demonstrating academic potential, could expand its scope of vital support to disadvantaged communities far and wide. At the time, our very first sponsored children in Mahikeng where the charity first began, were achieving impressive Matric results and were either enrolled onto university courses or beginning new and exciting careers.
At a guess, I would say that we were just two minutes into the interview before Marja and I unanimously agreed that Camilyn had qualified for SOS Africa sponsorship. And indeed, this decision was vindicated by virtually flawless school reports at the end of every subsequent school semester. Whilst most students would settle for 70%+ averages (I know that I would have), for Camilyn this simply would not do; she would only be satisfied with top grades in each and every subject.
Camilyn’s Matric results were a culmination of many years of relentless hard work and dedication. At the time, I remember feeling not only pride but also an overwhelming sense that justice had been served; Camilyn has received the plaudits she truly deserves and consequently, a very bright future lies ahead of her. However, these feelings were vastly surpassed when we all received the incredible news that Camilyn has been awarded a scholarship to SEA (The School of Explorative Architecture), the very first privately run architecture university in Africa, based in Cape Town.
“I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been accepted to SEA School of Explorative Architecture to pursue my passion for architecture! I’m even more grateful to have received the bursary which has made this dream a reality. Thank you to everyone who supported me – your contribution has meant the world to me. I’m excited for this journey ahead – challenges and all – and look forward to making the most of this opportunity. Thank you again for believing in me!” (Camilyn Dickson, SOS Africa Graduate)
And I am thrilled to add that Camilyn’s inspirational story is one of many examples of children and young adults from disadvantaged communities thriving, against the odds. Early this month, we also received the wonderful news that SOS Africa graduate Elvino, who joined us in Grade 1 in 2014, and subsequently achieved a rugby scholarship to Durban High, has also received a university scholarship to study sports science in Natal. These are just a few examples of so many that continue to inspire us all.
The SOS Africa staff, trustees and sponsors all feel so privileged to have been part of each and every sponsored child’s journey and to watch them flourish and hopefully achieve their lifelong ambitions. It really goes to show that any child or young adult can succeed, given the right amount of love and support; and if you add Camilyn’s determination, they are unstoppable.
Matt Crowcombe (Founder/CEO, SOS Africa)
