By Kenny Mashaba.
A 19-year-old first-year law student , Nkadimeng Dineo, at UL is a shining example of resilience and determination. Born and raised in Sekhukhune, Nkadimeng has faced numerous challenges, yet she continues to defy the odds and inspire others through her achievements. Despite living with a disability that limits her to the use of one leg, she has overcome physical, emotional, and societal barriers, carving out a path of success and hope.
Dineo Nkadimeng, redefining whats possible, everyday. Photo by: Kenny Mashaba
Growing up in a family of four, Nkadimeng was the only one with a disability. From primary, she faced discrimination and mockery from her peers. Her mother, her steadfast supporter, carried her to school until grade three, as she did not have crutches at the time. Despite the emotional toll, Nkadimeng displayed remarkable strength, never feeling sorry for herself. She participated in physical activities, even excelling in competitive rope skipping. Using just one leg, she outperformed students from ten schools and secured first place, a victory that shattered stereotypes and highlighted her determination.
In high school, Nkadimeng developed a passion for writing poems and drama, which helped her cope with her emotions. Writing became her outlet for processing feelings of anger, frustration, and self-doubt. “I would write poems and later burn them out of anger. I had suicidal thoughts, but writing kept me going,” she recalls.
Frequently changing schools, challenges continued, where Nkadimeng traveled an hour to and from school using crutches and often managed household responsibilities while her mother worked. Despite these hardships, she consistently ranked first in her class from grade 10 through to matric.
Initially applying for Education, Nkadimeng eventually opted to study law (LLB). Her dream, however, was to become a pilot. “I wanted to travel the world, learn new cultures, and come back to share those experiences and knowledge,” she says.
The discovery of the LLB program marked a pivotal moment in Nkadimeng’s journey, providing her with a platform to advocate for the rights of disabled individuals. She is particularly passionate about addressing the lack of resources for blind students on campus. Now using a wheelchair provided by the Reakgona Disability Center (RDC), she highlights the need for better accessibility.
“Blind students are not given the same conveniences to navigate campus as we are. Becoming an attorney would give me a platform to raise such issues,” she explains.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Nkadimeng is an active member of the Inspirational Book Club, where she participates in debates, book reviews, and shares her extensive collection of over 100 poems and four dramas, with a focus on her disability experiences.
Nkadimeng Dineo wants to be seen for who she is, beyond her disability. “My disability does not define my future, only my past,” she asserts. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with determination and resilience, no obstacle is insurmountable.
