Nothing can stop you from achieving what you want, like a learner who obtained distinctions in his final matric exams, despite the fact that he was using a candle to study.

The remote village of Mianzwi-Vuwani outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo has fought many years to get electricity and is still waiting, but nothing has stopped them from celebrating and honouring the learner who put them on the map.

Rofhatutshedza Mashishimise (18) said that he wrote the matric final exam in 2008 while using a piece of candle to study, due to the shortage of electricity. His poor family background never stopped him from obtaining distinctions in Tshivenda, English and Life Orientation, while obtaining a C for Mathematics, Physical Science, Biology and Geography and a D for Agriculture.

His plan is to go to study metallurgical engineering at Wits or the University of Pretoria.

Mashishimise said that he made it because of dedication, hard work and determination. "I´m happy to be honoured by the community. I also thank my teachers, principal, classmates and parents, who encouraged me. Wherever I go, I will never forget my poor village because I´m proud of that," a delighted Mashishimise said.

A traditional leader, Musanda Mpfariseni Netshimbupfe, said that honouring the best students is part of an annual programme of motivating community learners who work hard. Netshimbupfe said that this year the community has selected twelve learners from Grade 1- 12 and honoured them with trophies and certificates.

"We are trying to show others learners that even without electricity you can make difference. Because of working together day and night our village is fighting crime, drugs and alcohol," Netshimbupfe said.