From homeless to law graduate: Zamile August (67) proves it’s never too late

Zamile August is wildly inspirational.

Originally from Nyanga, his life took a turn for the worse in 2013 when his Philippi home burned down.

Unable to find a stable place to live and without employment, he found himself on the streets of Belville in 2015.

Despite these challenges, he continued to pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer.

With the help of grants, money made from collecting cans, and much time spent in the city library, August completed his LLB at the University of South Africa after 15 years.

He is currently working towards the board exam while living in a shelter in Lansdowne.

“He would come to the Central Library here in Cape Town because he said the library has more resources," explains community reporter Kaylynne Bantom.

"This [exam] is also taking him so much longer, but he says he doesn't care. To him, it's just about completing it because this is his dream, so he's determined and wants to achieve his goal.”

Bantom said that August’s story has inspired perseverance and hope in the community.

“He’s this person who just doesn’t give up. He’s a person of perseverance and really just a man that whenever you speak to him, you can’t help but walk away and feel so much hope.”

To listen to Bantom in conversation with CapeTalk’s Clarence Ford, click below: