Hope restored: How R120 000 donation helped a student overcome financial barriers

What began as a challenging journey for Stellenbosch University student Courtney Du Plessis has transformed into an inspiring story of hope and generosity. 

Just days after her struggles were featured in the Weekend Argus, a sister publication of the Cape Argus, her outstanding tuition fees were paid in full.

Within three days of the article's publication, SERR Synergy, a nationally recognised legal compliance company, stepped in to cover the full amount of over R120 000.

Du Plessis, a third-year education student, had earlier shared that she was facing the devastating possibility of attending her graduation ceremony without being able to receive her official certificates. 

Her funding had been withdrawn after the bursary responsible for paying her university fees reportedly informed her that her application had never been fully approved. The communication came late in the year leaving her with large debts for 2024 and 2025.

“I’ve worked hard to reach this point, but I was told I would not be able to graduate officially or register for my postgraduate certificate in education unless my fees were paid,” Du Plessis said in the earlier story.

Chantelle Damons, the company’s receptionist, said their Business Unit Manager, Sanet Schnetler, acted immediately after seeing the article. 

“When she saw Courtney’s story, she told me to get in touch with her straight away. We usually help students where we can, so when we verified the documents and everything checked out, we made the full payment within 30 minutes. We do it because we want people to climb up the ladder, no expectations, just the desire to help,” Damons said.

An emotional Du Plessis said she was overwhelmed when she received the email from SERR Synergy confirming payment.

“I called my mom, who then called my grandmother, and we immediately started to pray. I still can’t believe what just happened, my fees are paid in full. I can now graduate and receive my certificates. I can also do my postgrad next year. I’m so grateful. Thank you SERR Synergy for helping me work towards my dream and thank you Weekend Argus for publishing my story, but above all, Praise be to God!” she said.

Her mother, Chantal Du Plessis, expressed deep gratitude to the company and to the newspaper. “All glory and honour be to God, who ultimately made this possible,” she said.

Du Plessis, who previously shared her battle to secure her right to education, said the gesture had restored her faith in humanity. “I just wanted to share my story in the hope that it might inspire others. I never imagined it would end like this,” she said.

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