This 21-year-old pilot shares his inspiring message, five years after failing Matric

We’ve come to the end of a contrasting week for South African learners. Many received the grades they were hoping for, but others were left crestfallen with their Matric results.

However, the disappointment on results day is far from the end of the road for our youngsters. There are plenty of great options available for those who feel like they fell short. Just ask Siyakholwa Zazini: He failed his exams in 2014, but it would be the beginning of the rest of his life.

Matric inspiration

Zazini posted on his Facebook page that he was initially overcome with sadness and depression. But he picked himself up, and quite literally took flight. He aced his exams when he re-took them the following year and went on to work in a supermarket to make ends meet.

With his improved grades in tow, it wasn’t long until opportunity came knocking. He was accepted onto a flight training course and in 2018, he successfully qualified as a private pilot, at the tender age of 21. Siya shared some salient advice via his social media page, and they’re words we can all live by:

“If you fail, always remember that you’re not the first one to fail. People before you have failed and then went back to claim victory. It’s also important to remember that athletes start their race together but finish at different times. We’re all going to make it but that all depends on our efforts… Don’t allow people to intimidate you with their criticism.”

Siya Zazini

Siya’s tips for success

Inspiring stuff. Zazini has also developed a seven-point checklist for young South Africans looking to achieve their dreams. His pearls of wisdom include accepting your own mistakes, and having the ability to keep yourself in check:

• Acknowledge your mistakes.
• Neglected all the negativity.
• Self-motivation brings your best performance.
• Self-discipline helps improve decision making.
• Don’t compare yourself with others.
• Remain in your route and stay focused.
• Never let them belittle you.

Zazini eventually earned his Matric qualifications from Solomon Mahlangu High School in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. Next up for the high-flyer is yet another huge challenge: He’s looking to acquire his commercial pilot’s license, which would allow him to fly with passengers on board. The sky really is the limit for this incredible youngster!