A 48-year-old mom from Kraaifontein, who went back to school to get her matric certificate, turned heads last week when she finally attended her own matric ball.
Lancia Coetzee and her 22-year-old son are both students at Northlink College in Bellville and went to the ball together.
Lancia and Jenino both looked stunning as the red carpet was rolled out for them at their Eikendal home, in what can only be described as a fairytale come to life.
After three years of blood, sweat and tears and almost giving up, Lancia passed her matric exam, albeit 20 years later, and celebrated in style on Friday night.
Lancia looked like a queen in a midnight blue and silver ball gown, complete with a tiara and silver heels.
Her coach was a sleek Audi RS5, which literally roared to a stop outside her home.
The larney sports car was a gift from André Fortuin, who was inspired by her story when it was first published in the Daily Voice earlier this year
The mom completed her matric and Level 4 in Hospitality this year, while her son is studying Tourism.
The single mom of three said she went to apply for Jenino to study when inspiration hit.
Lancia and Jenino had a motorcycle convoy escort, courtesy of the Brotherhood Motorcycle Club.
Her “fairy godmother”, Laylah Zukofu Khan, was also on hand to ensure it all went perfectly and brought along delicious platters for the tafel.
Khan has assisted many underprivileged matric pupils across the Cape Flats to have the ball of their dreams.
Lancia says it was an unforgettable evening.
“I cannot describe how I feel about this magical evening. It was like something straight out of a fairytale,” the excited mom said.
“The decor and the gorgeous red carpet is something I can never get over.
“My children chose a dress for me and made sure I had the perfect evening.
“I had to fight not to cry as I became very overwhelmed by all of it.
“I worked really hard and it was not always easy, but I made it and can proudly say I have my matric certificate.”
Her son, Sergio Vergotine, 28, says his mother deserved everything.
“Three years of struggle and look where my mother is today. We are very proud of her and we hope she inspires other people. It is never too late to get an education,” he says.
Khan said she was glad to be part of Lancia’s happy ending: “Tonight was amazing to see her turn into a Cinderella. Let’s continue to tell our stories to the community and ignite change.”