ONCE again, the Annual St Mary’s DSG Kloof High School Speech Awards was the highlight of the academic calendar for the school. It took place on October 6.

The evening celebrated the achievements of the high school girls, and their diligence and hard work were also acknowledged. The ultimate prize, of course, will be their final matric results.

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The guest speaker for the evening was the recipient of the school’s National Old Girls award for 2023, Bongiwe Beja-Ntsiko from the Class of 2004. Beja-Ntsiko is the executive director of a youth development NPO called Youth Bridge Trust which focuses on youth employment. Her message really resonated with the girls as she told them to be bold because the Lord determines our steps.

“‘A piece of my heart is in St Mary’s. My faith was born there and the sense of knowing that, through God, I can do all things,” said Beja-Ntsiko.

Congratulating the prize-winners, St Mary’s DSG Kloof marketing and communications administrator, Sarah Bartholomew, said, “Well done to all our matrics and prize-winners – your work ethic and commitment are commendable, and we are so proud of you. Thank you to our supportive parents and our dedicated and committed teachers who walked this path alongside you.

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“We particularly congratulate our two top academic girls whose outstanding marks earned them both first place to share the coveted position of Dux of School for 2023. Well done to Camryn Smart and Amy Lamplough on your incredible achievements.

“We also congratulate the Sportswoman of the Year, Tayla Haslam, and the Most Promising Sportswomen awarded to Nicola Forbes, Sibabalwe Mfazwe and Jessica Carmody,” she said.

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