Academic excellence took centre stage at The Venue Melrose Arch on May 21, as Cambridge University Press & Assessment honoured some of South Africa’s highest performing learners at its Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards ceremony.

The event celebrated 128 exceptional learners from 44 schools across the country who achieved remarkable results in the June and November 2025 Cambridge examination series. In total, 146 awards were presented, including prestigious Top in the World, Top in South Africa, and Best Across accolades.

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Among the learners recognised was Kabir Budlender, from St John’s College, who achieved Top in the World for Cambridge International A level geography.

While the awards celebrated academic success, speakers focused on a message that extended far beyond examination results.

Louise Hendey, managing director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Cambridge, encouraged learners to recognise the importance of finding environments where they can thrive. “Where you plant yourself really, really matters. A sunflower growing in a cave is not lacking motivation; it is just in the wrong place.”

Hendey also reflected on the rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence, urging parents and educators to create opportunities that allow young people to flourish.

“If the last couple of years in this lovely AI generation have taught us anything, it’s that we know nothing. We have no idea where this juggernaut is heading. So, we have to eat a little bit of humble pie and actually create environments in which our children can thrive.”

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Guest speaker Wallace Isaacs, deputy director from the University of Pretoria, reassured learners that human qualities remain irreplaceable despite technological advances.

“Technologies change and industries change, but your ability to think critically is very important. The discipline to persevere, your ability to solve problems, your courage to face difficulties, and the willingness to keep learning. These qualities, in my mind, will never become obsolete.”

Addressing students preparing for university and the workplace, Isaacs reminded them that uncertainty is part of every generation’s journey.

“The fear of the unknown should not paralyse you. Every generation before ours has stepped into some level of uncertainty, yet progress always belongs to those who move forward despite fear.”

The ceremony highlighted more than outstanding marks; it celebrated the resilience, curiosity, and determination that continue to shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem solvers in an increasingly complex world.

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