Waterfall College celebrates resilience at Speech Day
Waterfall College has grown in numbers in their ten years of existence.
This year, Waterfall College’s Speech Day was not only noteworthy due to it being the school’s tenth year Anniversary but it was also the first year that Waterfall College has had two matric classes.
The event is a highlight on the school calendar and a chance to recognise the learners achievements and bid a fond farewell to the Grade 12s.
Top achievers included Dux of the School,Siobhan Cahill and the Proxime Accessit to Dux, Ayanda Ngcobo. The Principal’s Award for Exceptional Commitment, Leadership and Integrity was shared by Peter Mthembu, Head Boy and Siobhan Cahill, Head Girl. Sports Person of the Year Award was awarded to Sicelo Thwala.
Waterfall College also places high regard on resilience as a life skill, in line with the theme of this year’s Speech Day. Ashton Blignaut was the recipient of the Jenny Schingler Award for Perseverance and Robyn Caelers was presented with the Siobhan Cahill Extra Mile Award.
Mrs Jeanette van der Merwe, Principal of Waterfall College had this advice for the matrics in her address, “Such a lot of information, advice and encouragement has been shared with you, I would simply like to wish you well. May you make a positive difference out there as you remember our teaching and nurturing. Share what you’ve learnt with others in need and help make our world a better place.”
Guest of honour Mr Fabice Muhizi (BCom CFA, UCT) spoke about resilience and encouraged the learners to persevere. In his humble manner, he recounted the personal story of his family’s escape from Burundi in the mid 90s and their momentous journey to South Africa as refugees and how he succeeded against all the odds.
He concluded his speech with, “Everything I’ve spoken about this morning means nothing, if you are not prepared to own your life. You have choices and this is a privilege. Understand that the choices you make today will determine your tomorrow. Choose carefully, seek advice and help if necessary but understand that your choice is yours to live with. Today is valuable so please use it. Dream big but be prepared to work hard. I wish you well as you prepare to write your finals, and may God guide you in your future endeavours.”
At the end of the morning, the matrics each rang the school bell for the last time before walking through the annual Guard of Honour created by the other Grade learners in an emotional farewell.
