Bonteheuwel twins excel against the odds
DOUBLE SUCCESS: Twin sisters and teachers Ra’Eesah and Ammarah Ford graduated together and earned their BEd Honours summa cum laude and cum laude, respectively.
Friday, 11 April 2025
Growing up in Bonteheuwel was not without challenges for twin sisters Ammarah and Ra’Eesah Ford but the two teachers defied the odds and have earned their BEd Honours summa cum laude and cum laude, respectively.
On Friday afternoon, it was a double celebration for the pair when they graduated together during CPUT’s Autumn Graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Education.
Raised by their single mother, they faced financial struggles and uncertainty, but the pair found solace in their education.
“We worked tirelessly, supporting each other every step of the way, and matriculated at the top of our class,” said Ammarah.
She continued: My journey at university began soon after, as I enrolled for my undergraduate degree in Education alongside Ra’Eesah. We often juggled part-time jobs to make ends meet, but our determination to succeed kept us going. I faced an additional hurdle when my bursary fell through during my first year, but we persevered together, drawing strength from our bond as sisters and our shared passion for teaching.”
After graduating in 2023 with their BEd qualifications, they started their teaching careers and eventually found themselves teaching back where it all began - in Bonteheuwel.
“It's been a fulfilling experience, giving back to the community that nurtured us,” said Ra’Eesah.
“As teachers, we want our students to know that we're not just educators, we're living proof that hard work and determination can take you far. We've walked the same streets, sat in the same classrooms, and faced similar challenges as our students. And we want them to know that if we can do it, they can too.”
Driven by a desire to further their education and make an even greater impact, the twins decided to pursue their Honours in Educational Management and Leadership.
They enrolled in 2024 and both achieved outstanding results.
“Today, as we prepare to graduate with our Honours degrees, I'm filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. We've come full circle, and our journey has equipped us with the knowledge, skills, and passion to make a lasting difference in the lives of our learners,” said Ammarah before the graduation.
Ammarah is now studying towards her Master's in Education.
“We're committed to continuing our journey of growth, exploration, and service to our community. Our story is one of hope, resilience, and the power of education to transform lives. We hope that by sharing our journey, we can inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.”
Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za
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