Masana Mkhabela believes authenticity, hard work, and relatability earned her the esteemed leadership role she’s taking next year.

The Grade 11 learner from Roedean School SA will be head girl next year, explaining that the announcement was surreal, and she was elated.

“I am passionate about my school. I have been at the school since Grade 0, and I have grown since schooling here at an early age. I thought about taking up this leadership role at the end of Grade 10, because I believe that I have the ability to do so.”

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When Masana is not playing soccer on the school grounds, she is playing the piano and harp.

“Being involved in sports and cultural activities has helped me to know people, sit down and have conversations with them so that they also get to know me.”

She said learners in the school would not have voted for her, had she not built the relationships she has.

Masana highlighted that her family has not only been her biggest cheerleaders, but an inspiration as well.

“As a child, I suffered from skin issues, which caused me to lack confidence, but my family always tried to uplift me. Especially my brother, who has always protected me, has always motivated me.”

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She added that her family’s guidance and encouragement is the mindset she had when she began high school.

Masana concluded by advising aspiring leaders to be their authentic self.

“Look at yourself and ask yourself: ‘What goals do you want to achieve?’. Focus on your passions, while still being open to other people.”

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