For Laila Seedat, Ashton International College’s top matriculant, the late nights, early mornings and countless extra classes handsomely paid off after she attained eight distinctions in last year’s NCS examinations.

Seedat scored full marks in English, Afrikaans, geography, life orientation, life sciences, mathematics, physical science, and further studies mathematics, with a 91.25% average.

Her outstanding journey crowned her the school’s top achiever and marked a memorable end to her matric journey.

“I’m proud of myself and very happy. I didn’t expect it. It’s all because of all the hard work that I reached this position. I’m ecstatic,” she said.

The Beyer’s Park resident had set herself the ambitious goal of attaining eight distinctions at the start of the academic year, and through discipline, hard work and dedication, she turned that vision into reality, proving that persistence and commitment remain the cornerstone of academic excellence.

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“My goal was eight distinctions and a 90% average. I managed to get that, thankfully. All the hard work paid off.”

Reflecting on the most challenging moments of the academic year, the 18-year-old admitted that the heavy workload often tested her resolve, but meticulous planning helped her overcome periods of doubt and stay on course.

“There was a point when I wasn’t sure I would get my eight distinctions. I achieved them through hard work and determination.

“Some say matric is Grade 11 revision. It was not. It was sleeping at 02:00 and many cups of coffee. As a Muslim, I put faith in God. That helped me believe I can do it,” said Seedat.

She thanked her teachers for their support, saying, “They played a huge role in my success. I would take extra classes if I didn’t get what I wanted on a test. They were always there and ready to help.”

The top achiever, who will study occupational therapy at the University of Pretoria, advised incumbent matric learners to remain disciplined, draw up a to-do list, don’t stress, and tackle their studies one day at a time.

“There are going to be times when you feel you can’t do it because the goal is too big. Just keep your head down and work hard. Pay attention in class. Don’t stress. Take it a day at a time.”

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