Dominique da Silva

28 September 2022

Dominique da Silva Curro Hazeldean - 2014

 

We dream, we make plans, we set goals for ourselves … but sometimes life knocks us down. What do we do when we experience hardships? Dominique da Silva, Curro Hazeldean Class of 2014, would not trade the hardships she experienced for anything else. They turned her into the woman she is today.

Dominique recently qualified as a post-basic pharmacist’s assistant from the University of the Witwatersrand and Regent Business School – on a full bursary! Patience, dedication, hard work, and little sleep certainly paid off. Dominique did not always have it easy. ‘There was a time in my life when I thought I wouldn't make it, living in a difficult position of poverty for the bigger portion of my life. After school, I had to start my entire life from the ground up, and I was unfortunately alone while doing this. But I wouldn't trade the hardships for anything, now. They made me into the woman I am today. I am truly blessed.’

Working hard to achieve her dreams is something that Dominique has been doing since her days as a learner, and an expression of passion is a highlight of her school journey. ‘Whether exploring my own passions or seeing my peers thrive while expressing theirs, the expression of passion is a highlight. It was always great so see and meet so many diverse and wonderful people who were truly passionate about what they could learn or explore.’ The amazing things the Class of 2014 did as a team are more memories that Dominique cherishes. ‘Matric 40 days must have been one of the most incredible highlights of my school journey and I also loved experiencing new and different things such as Curro @ Night!’

Dominique has certainly come a very long way since her first day at Curro Hazeldean when she was introduced to the entire assembly – a very bashful moment according to her. Now she has achieved some of her biggest goals. ‘I have a great qualification and a very stable, well-paying job. I've turned my writing hobby into a part-time paying job, and I now write and program interactive storybooks internationally as a second income. I have my family, friends and I'm soon to be married,’ she says.

Dominique is truly an example that anyone can achieve their dreams. Through hard work, dedication and perseverance, nothing is impossible!