Benoni High School annually enters a group of candidates for the prestigious De Beers English Olympiad.
There are approximate 8 500 entries nationwide. This year, the theme was Consequences and the subject matter in the anthology demanded an exploration of one’s moral choices and the consequences of said choices.
Grade 12s are usually encouraged to enter this competition, but this year educator Tracey Mills entered a Grade 10 learners and her brother, who is in Grade Nine.
“The results were very pleasing, with Benoni High receiving two merits, three bronze awards, five silvers and a coveted Diamond Award,” she said.
Zayanah Laher (Grade 10) achieved the Diamond Award and placed 30th in South Africa.
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“Which is an awesome achievement for a first-time entrant and such a young candidate.”
Mohammed Laher (Grade Nine) received a Silver Award.
Zayanah said words are magical.
“They hold so much power within them.
“I’ve always been captivated by the impact words can have.”
She added that words can paint pictures and evoke emotion, to build up or break down.
“Writing the De Beers English Olympiad gave me the ideal opportunity to cultivate my love for the English language.
“I thoroughly revelled in exploring the themes and nuances within the set work.”
She thanked her teacher and fellow Olympiad entrants at Benoni High for their stimulating input.
