Ain’t no stopping 77-year-old graduate
"Do anything that keeps you going. Age is just a number, it's not a life sentence," is Mottie's advice.
AGE is nothing but a number for graduate Minne Mottie who just completed her Diploma in Theology and is now studying towards her degree at the ripe age of 77-years-old.
The Wentworth granny is being praised by the community for defying the odds to not only complete her diploma but also her matric this year.
A single mother of five, Mottie sent all her children to college and watched as they completed their degrees in medicine, engineering and theology. “It was a dream for me to study. Now that my children have succeeded, it is my turn. I started by completing my matric, afterwards I enrolled in a Bible college where I got my certificate in theology, and now my diploma,” said the graduate.
Not stopping there, the 77-year-old has now set her sights on attaining a degree and one day “if God allows”, her doctorate in theology.
this education has given me a set of skills to go out and pray and encourage people
“I enjoy it – this education has given me a set of skills to go out and pray and encourage people. Once my studies are finished, I want to be a motivator for the youth. I will also pursue a course in counseling. I want to make a difference in the world. My community needs me and I want to show them no matter your age, colour or challenge, anything can be achieved if you believe in yourself and your capabilities.
There were times when I was told by people that I was too old but through my determination, I have achieved and am still achieving despite the critics,” added Mottie.
She thanks her pastor, Joseph Westhuizen for pushing and encouraging her throughout the journey.
In her younger years, she worked as a qualified machinist and caterer.
Besides studying, Mottie keeps herself busy by being an active member of the community and exercising her green thumb in her garden. “Do anything that keeps you going. Age is just a number, it’s not a life sentence,” is Mottie’s advice.
Do anything that keeps you going. Age is just a number, it’s not a life sentence
This woman of many talents thrived through many difficulties and it was her love of children that drove her towards theology. “I want to help educate parents about encouraging their children, teach them how to talk to them and connect. My goal is to work with the community and I believe I can change the world,” she said.
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