A woman in her 20s was ecstatic to find that she had won the National Lottery after she played the same numbers her late father always played.
The Lotto jackpot winner claimed her R5.3 million pay-out from draw number 2515, which took place on February 12.
Having lost both parents, the woman and her sister have been responsible for raising their younger siblings - facing many challenges.
"Life has been difficult for us, but this win will change our circumstances. We will now have a beautiful, suitable home, and I can ensure my siblings receive a proper education."
She said her father regularly played the National Lottery, always hopeful for a better future.
"He played Lotto often," she said.
"I found an old ticket of his and decided to play his numbers. I never expected this outcome."
She understood the importance of financial planning, so she decided to make use of Ituba's financial advisory services, available to all winners of R50 000 and above.
"When I realised I had won, my priority was ensuring that this money would benefit my family in the long term. The financial guidance I received has been invaluable, and I plan to invest a significant portion of my winnings."
The winning ticket was purchased at a Shoprite in Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal, with a R5 ticket wager, and manual selection.
Charmaine Mabuza, the CEO of Ithuba, said: "This heart-warming story highlights the true purpose of the National Lottery – to give people hope and a chance to change their lives for the better. We are overjoyed to have played a role in changing the life of this remarkable young woman and her family.”