‘Go boldly and steadfastly in the direction of your dreams’ were, in part, the words poetically uttered by De La Salle Holy Cross College principal, Debbie Harris, to the Class of 2021 matrics at their valedictory mass.
The recent event, which was held at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, was attended by not only some members of the school staff, but parents too. The significant event tends to signify the glorious coming to end of an era for each learner.
For Langelihle Nduku, the wait for this day dates back to their Grade 8 year, and now that it finally arrived, they couldn’t help but feel rather emotional.
Many of us will relate to the feelings of excitement coupled with reservation that this class will be experiencing as they look towards leaving the comfort high school to experience the great and inevitable unknown.
“A great deal of hard work has gone into all you have achieved since you started Gr R in 2009. Thank you for allowing all your teachers and staff to be your sounding boards, for accepting and honouring our differences as we have tried to honour yours, for allowing us to challenge you, support, advise and care for you,” said Harris.
Matric learner, Michael Liang, stated how though he hated change, his time at school encouraged him to adapt to change and accept it. Although it will be difficult for him to leave the school, he is excited to see what the future holds.
Grade 12 facilitator, Liz van der Westhuizen, urged the class to never forget how far they have come and everything they have gone through. She paired this sentiment with all the mornings they got out of bed, no matter how hard it was and all the times they wanted to give up but they got through another day.
“I am excited about my future as I am confident in the knowledge that my school has prepared me for the world out there. I know that the value my school has instilled in me to be first that I may be of service will serve me well wherever I go in this world. In the words of Dr. Seuss, ‘I’m off to great places, today is my day, my mountain is waiting so I shall get on my way’,” head girl 2021 Emma Munyembate.
For head boy 2021, Liam Power, his 13-year journey at the school brings a range of emotions, “However, I am eternally grateful for the experiences and skills this wonderful college has given me. I will miss every part of the college but the college and its values will live with me forever.”
