High praise for Ballito principal Astra Russell

An accomplished educator, Astra Russell was recently honoured for her outstanding contribution to education which has spanned more than 45 years. 

The principal of Eden Village Preparatory School was the deserving recipient of the Nation Builder of the Year 2020 in the education category. 

Having spent 20 years at the helm of one of the North Coast’s most respected schools, Russell retired as principal of Umhlali Preparatory school at the end of 2018.

However, she was not ready to accept the traditional age of retirement and took on a new role as founding principal of Eden Academy.

The new contemporary mainstream school which opened its doors this year also integrates a remedial unit – something that is close to Russell’s heart. 

Founder of the Nation Builders, Annet Michelle Sewraj, said the organisation recognised Astra Russell’s incredible work and her contribution to nation building over the years in the education sector. 

“Astra Russell is the Pep Stores academy mentor and she also mentors teachers at the DBW Vilikazi School, Thembeni Primary School and the Enkukwini Primary School in the iLembe District.

Her commitment to education over the years has been recognised and her love and passion for inclusive education continues with her current role as principal of Eden Village Preparatory School in Salt Rock.”

Eden Village co-founder Haden Keeton said: “We are delighted that Mrs Russell has been recognised by the Nation Builders Organisation for her outstanding contribution to education, which has spanned several generations.

In our community we often bump into parents who were educated by Mrs Russell, as pupils of neighbouring Umhlali Preparatory School, and whose children now attend the same school they did. 

“Mrs Russell is highly inclusive in her commitment to furthering the education and development of young children in South Africa, both in her determination to co-found and lead Eden Village Preparatory School, and in her dedication to working with the principals and teaching staff of several iLembe schools.

We salute Mrs Russell for her dedication, passion and leadership at Eden Village Prep,” said Keeton.