’40-year-old student’: Zuraida Jardine goes back to university

Zuraida Jardine became a household name when she co-hosted the second season of Big Brother South Africa in 2002 alongside radio personality Mark Pilgrim, who passed away in March this year.

Jardine was also the first winner of Strictly Come Dancing South Africa back in 2006, and she made the list of FHM’s 100 Sexiest Women in the World in the early 2000’s.

Now, more than two decades later, Jardine has decided to make a 360°C turn in her life, enrolling as a full-time student at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

While she already holds an Honours degree in Psychology, is an internationally-certified Functional Medicine Health coach, an advanced Breathwork practitioner, at the ripe age of 40, the media host and speaker has decided to complete her Masters degree, with research, in Critical Diversity Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand.

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‘Breaking a generational cycle’ – Zuraida Jardine

Taking to her Instagram account on Tuesday morning, Jardine proudly shared a video clip featuring pictures and moments of her during various important times on campus.

Starting off the video clip, Jardine is seen just happily smiling, spinning around in a circle, showing off her surroundings.

“At the age of 40 I decided to go to university as a full-time student to not only pursue a degree but to break a generational cycle. I come from a family where income was a necessity and higher education a luxury. Today, 8 years later, I have 3 degrees and changed the generational narrative,” Jardine captioned her video clip.

‘Such an inspiration’

Several of Jardine’s industry peers, fans and friends took to the comments section of her Instagram post to congratulate her.

“You are such an inspiration Z. Thank you for sharing and congratulations,” said television presenter Pabi Moloi.

“Beautiful! I love this for you! It is really up to us to change the narrative in our families,” said content creator and influencer Babalwa Mcaciso.

“Love this! I remember you posted about this a while ago and you then inspired me to continue with my studies, it’s hard working and studying and now becoming a mom but I will keep at it. Thank you for inspiring me,” commented Instagram user Alicia De Roos (neè Vermeulen).

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