Michelle Obama once said, "...it's important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.”
Angelique Billings receiving her late brother's BCom General degree in September 2023
Obama’s remarks deeply resonate with 21- year - old Angelique Billings, a fourth-year LLB student at the University of the Western Cape, who almost two years ago lost her mother, father, two siblings and even her cousin.
Billing’s life changed forever in April 2022 when her mother Juliet, who was 45-years-old at the time, succumbed to cancer. Four months later, a car crash near Gouda in the Western Cape claimed the lives of her father, Albert, older brother Peter-Jacques and her cousin, Kéan. Her younger brother Albert Jr who was also in the vehicle, died in hospital.
Despite life’s tragedies, Billing will return to UWC’s Bellville Main Campus this year determined to complete her degree this year.
“I intend to achieve everything I have set out for myself. I want to honour my family because I know that is what they would’ve wanted for me,” said the future graduate.
Raised in a strong faith-based home, the Billings always turned to their bible for strength and guidance. The practice intensified before the passing of her mother.
In a recently published article about the student, she refers to a bible verse her older brother read shortly before his untimely death: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear and be afraid of them, for the Lord your God, he is the one who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you”.
It’s these words that have carried the young woman.
“At the beginning of 2023 I was standing on the brink of a new academic year and had to adjust to a new household. I considered dropping out of university but quickly came to the realisation that I needed to take ownership of my future. I then decided that completing my studies would give me comfort and a sense of purpose.”
On 12 February this year, more than 24 000 students are expected to start their 2024 academic journey.
UWC has a diverse student population - each dealing with their own adversities. Billings’ message to them: “Focus on what you can control; find your cornerstone, which will ground you. Whatever is troubling you, know this too shall pass.”
She has also praised UWC for its unwavering support. The University provided professional counselling and additional resources to help her navigate the tragic year.
Her achievements have been hailed by the Dean of Law at UWC, Professor Jacques de Ville.
“The faculty is very impressed by Angelique's perseverance. We believe Angelique will successfully complete her degree and carry the UWC flag high in the legal profession. We wish her all the best,” said Prof de Ville.
For more information about UWC orientation which started on 5 February, visit:
admission-and-financial-aid/admission-support-services/welcome-and-orientation-2024
Listen to the advice given by Angelique Billings to those students who have experienced tragedy:
Angelique Billings receiving her late brother's BCom General degree in September 2023Obama’s remarks deeply resonate with 21- year - old Angelique Billings, a fourth-year LLB student at the University of the Western Cape, who almost two years ago lost her mother, father, two siblings and even her cousin.
Billing’s life changed forever in April 2022 when her mother Juliet, who was 45-years-old at the time, succumbed to cancer. Four months later, a car crash near Gouda in the Western Cape claimed the lives of her father, Albert, older brother Peter-Jacques and her cousin, Kéan. Her younger brother Albert Jr who was also in the vehicle, died in hospital.
Despite life’s tragedies, Billing will return to UWC’s Bellville Main Campus this year determined to complete her degree this year.
“I intend to achieve everything I have set out for myself. I want to honour my family because I know that is what they would’ve wanted for me,” said the future graduate.
Raised in a strong faith-based home, the Billings always turned to their bible for strength and guidance. The practice intensified before the passing of her mother.
In a recently published article about the student, she refers to a bible verse her older brother read shortly before his untimely death: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear and be afraid of them, for the Lord your God, he is the one who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you”.
It’s these words that have carried the young woman.
“At the beginning of 2023 I was standing on the brink of a new academic year and had to adjust to a new household. I considered dropping out of university but quickly came to the realisation that I needed to take ownership of my future. I then decided that completing my studies would give me comfort and a sense of purpose.”
On 12 February this year, more than 24 000 students are expected to start their 2024 academic journey.
UWC has a diverse student population - each dealing with their own adversities. Billings’ message to them: “Focus on what you can control; find your cornerstone, which will ground you. Whatever is troubling you, know this too shall pass.”
She has also praised UWC for its unwavering support. The University provided professional counselling and additional resources to help her navigate the tragic year.
Her achievements have been hailed by the Dean of Law at UWC, Professor Jacques de Ville.
“The faculty is very impressed by Angelique's perseverance. We believe Angelique will successfully complete her degree and carry the UWC flag high in the legal profession. We wish her all the best,” said Prof de Ville.
For more information about UWC orientation which started on 5 February, visit:
admission-and-financial-aid/admission-support-services/welcome-and-orientation-2024
Listen to the advice given by Angelique Billings to those students who have experienced tragedy:
