Rand Park High School recently traded its traditional uniforms for bright colours and costumes as Grade 11 learners took to the stage for the annual matric ball fundraiser.

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This year, the voluntary pageant embraced a lively carnival theme. The event serves as a unique opportunity for students to step away from traditional sports and cultural activities, raising funds through a combination of ticket sales and individual sponsorships.

School representative Heather Robinson expressed immense pride in the teenagers who stepped into the spotlight to support the matric ball committee. “Every learner who took part can be incredibly proud of themselves for having the courage to participate and put themselves forward. We are proud of all the participants and celebrate the confidence, character, and individuality that each one brought to the event.”

The pageant featured several distinct categories designed to test creativity and presence. Students showed off their individual style in a creative dress-up section matching the carnival theme, walked the stage in casual jeans to showcase neatness, and stepped out in formal wear. Finally, finalists were asked fun, lighthearted questions by the fundraising committee to test their confidence and quick thinking.

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To ensure fair adjudication, the school invited a panel of independent judges. Among them was Merlene Spies, the owner of Figures Models Randburg in Bromhof. Spies has judged at the school since 2007, and brings 40 years of industry experience to the panel. However, Spies noted that the school fundraiser is judged quite differently from professional modelling competitions, as most of the teenagers have never walked a runway before. “Judging is based on preference of choice, based on appeal, how they carry themselves, their look, and enthusiasm.”

She emphasised that creativity was the deciding factor in the carnival dress-up category, while the final question-and-answer round allowed the judges to see how the teenagers would respond and show confidence on the spot. Spies strongly encouraged future Grade 11 learners to take advantage of the platform, noting that the winners serve as vital role models for the rest of the school. “My advice to learners taking part in future school competitions is to grab this opportunity, enjoy it as it’s a fun competition, and close to your finishing school years. It will be something that takes you out of your comfort zone if you have never done it, and you will not forget it.”

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