It was double the joy for the parents of Charlotte and Charmaine Setati as they watched their daughters walk across the stage to receive their Bachelor of Accounting degrees.
The twins, dressed in striking blue power suits, graduated early in May, embodying the fulfilment of their dreams through perseverance and determination. Originally from Soshanguve in Pretoria, they moved to Sophiatown to be closer to their university of choice, the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
“I researched the best universities, and UJ came out on top for Accounting, so it was a no-brainer to enrol here,” Charlotte explained. Both sisters received the SAICA Thuthuka Bursary to study at UJ, a decision they’ve never regretted.
Reflecting on their journey, Charlotte highlighted the challenges they faced, especially during their first year. “Transitioning to the online learning environment was tough because we didn’t have the access we wanted to our lecturers. I struggled with constant computer work and technical issues,” she recalled. Charmaine agreed, noting that university life was a significant shift from high school. “It was especially hard during that first year, coming out of the pandemic. I didn’t benefit as much as I wanted to from online learning and not being able to see lecturers face-to-face.”
As they adapted to online learning, they were relieved to return to campus, though this transition brought new challenges. “Adjusting to being around people was difficult for me since I’m not very social. University life really opened that door,” Charlotte admitted.
Their second year introduced them to their major modules, demanding even more dedication. “We pulled through by working hard and focusing on the goal to get to the other side. That was my motivation. Second year laid the foundation for the rewards of third year,” Charmaine said.
The twins’ study regimen included teamwork, daily schedules, and mutual support during difficult subjects. “When graduation finally came, I felt a mixture of emotions and remembered how hard the journey was. I felt so blessed to have made it,” Charlotte shared.
For Charmaine, crossing the graduation stage was a dream come true. “Seeing the smiles on our parents’ faces, I just knew I made it. It was difficult for them to raise us as we don’t come from a financially stable home. It was a truly beautiful moment to see them so proud of us.”
The Setati twins are now pursuing their Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting. “Graduation day marks not just an end but a celebration of resilience and the strength found in never giving up. We stand as a testament to the power of perseverance,” they affirmed.
