She faced severe bullying about her condition at the start of her high school career in 2014, so it was a big deal for this pint-sized Mitchells Plain meisie when she celebrated her matric ball this week.
In 2015, the Daily Voice brought you the story of Martinique Petersen who was born with Achondroplasia, commonly known as dwarfism.
Martinique, 17, lives a totally normal life, “just like all my teen friends”.
Despite minor challenges, Martinique says she has dealt with life’s punches and “can do everything else any of my friends can do”.
Martinique went solo to her matric ball. Picture: Kathrine Didloff
The confident teen from Glendale High posed for photos with her family and friends in the lounge of her Rocklands home on Wednesday night at her tafel before setting off to her matric ball that was held at her school.
Martinique went solo and drove to her matric ball in a grey VW Golf 6, escorted by 12 motorbikes.
“I failed Grade 11 and was disappointed at the setback,” she says.
“This year of matric was hard, but I pushed and I’m still pushing to make the most of the final exam coming in October.
“Like every other matric pupil, I was looking forward to the matric ball and made sure I look ravishing,” she adds with a giggle.
PROUD: Mom Nicolette Carelse
Martinique says she searched the internet to find the dress of her dreams, but added a few changes here and there to make it unique, “like me”.
“This dress took three weeks to make, it’s made of mesh, Morrocan satin, sequins and lace,” the teen explains, showing off her stunning silver and white dress with the long slit down the side.
She completed the look with a silver wedge shoe and silver clutch bag.
Her mom, Nicolette Carelse, says she is proud of her daughter’s achievements.
She says while her daughter’s growth may have been stunted by her condition, there is absolutely nothing wrong with her brain.
PROUD: Mom Nicolette Carelse
“Martinique has come a long way and now she is all grown up and becoming an adult,” Nicolette says.
“She looks so beautiful tonight. I’m just happy that she is happy with the matric ball outfit because, wow, this child is hard to please.”
Martinique wanted to study nursing after school, but can’t because she doesn’t have the proper subjects.
“I might have to go work next year and then try and sort out the studies later,” she adds.