Parktown Boys’ High celebrates alumni giving back

Parktown Boys’ High School experienced a day filled with positivity as alumni contributions, unveilings, and learner recognition showcased a strong culture of giving back.

Alumni John, David, and Philip Zylstra made it back to their former school to put forward a R24m donation through their family foundation.

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John said the family foundation, founded in 1997 by their father, has been focusing on providing scholarships and bursaries for postgraduate students studying at the best universities in the world.

“The foundation is specifically focused on scholarships and bursaries taking talent out of South Africa and developing and building into something special, so they can come back to South Africa and contribute towards the country.”

The donation includes a match funding programme that will double additional donations up to R4m over the next 30 days, encouraging participation in supporting the school.

Beyond the financial contribution, a wing of the school, formerly known as the new wing, got a new name, as the school surprised the family with the unveiling of a plaque on the newly named Zylstra Wing.

This is to give thanks to the family for the generosity to the school. “It was fantastic, and it is in a beautiful area. We didn’t expect that.”

John added that their legacy will remain there, and hopefully it will inspire the next generation to also give back.

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School deputy head boy Humaid Timol described the donation as a significant opportunity for the school.

“We’ve been given a really generous amount. This will help us in the long-term develop our programmes.”

Head boy Ndyebo Pongwana stated that the donation will have a great impact on the school, adding that the experience inspired him to give back in the future in his own way.

“My main goal, once I leave school, is to always have a part of it with me, whether it’s through contributing in sporting activities, cultural activities, or even teaching.”

The event reflects how gratitude and never forgetting where one comes from can help in building future leaders.

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