A determined African woman, Mantoa Mabel Mphambo, has defied the odds to achieve a remarkable milestone, earning a Bachelor of Divinity degree at the age of 70 from the University of the Free State, in South Africa.
Her story is not just inspiring, it is deeply moving as she battled illness that almost left her useless but she overcame the challlenge and now she has achieved success.
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Mantoa's Story and How She Did It
Mantoaโs journey was marked by serious health challenges that forced her to step away from her career as a teacher.
At one point, her condition affected her memory so severely that she struggled to read or even recall simple things like the Lordโs Prayer. It was a painful season that left her feeling like she had lost parts of herself, her confidence, her identity, and the work she once loved.
But she refused to give up. Reflecting on that difficult period, she shared how it was her faith that kept her going.
โThere was a time when I lost pieces of myself, my memory, my confidence, and the work that once defined me. But I never lost my faith. I chose to believe that my story was not ending, only changing direction,” she said.
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In the midst of her struggles, she found renewed purpose in her faith.
Becoming more active in her church, she was eventually ordained as a pastor at the New Testament Church. But with that role came responsibility, she wanted to guide others with clarity, truth, and understanding.
Then, a turning point came in 2019 when she watched a televised sermon that promoted harmful practices. Disturbed by what she saw, she felt a strong need to deepen her theological knowledge so she could lead her congregation with wisdom and sound understanding.
That decision led her to return to the university. She enrolled in a Bachelor of Divinity program at UFS, determined to learn more about theology and strengthen her calling.
However, the journey was not easy. In 2024, she had to pause her studies to care for her 94-year-old mother full-time. But even that did not stop her. She returned in 2025, more determined than ever, and finally completed her degree in 2026.
Today, as she walks across the graduation stage, Mantoa stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, faith, and lifelong learning.
โToday, I stand as proof that it is never too late for God to restore, renew, and fulfil His purpose in your life,” she said during her graduation.
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