Gaby’s star shines brightest

Northlands Primary School’s learner, Gaby Mkize was named the overall winner (Primary Schools) in KwaZulu-Natal for the SPAR Superstar competition.

The Grade 4 learner won a R5 000 voucher from SPAR, as well as a goodie bag.

Earlier this year, Mkize surprised her school’s media director, Jason Kemp, with a book she had not only written, but illustrated and produced all on her own.

The 12-page marvel was an adventure story in which Kemp gets to save the planet.

“Mr Kemp told us a story about a student who wrote a book about her journey during lockdown and that’s what inspired me to write this book. I’m really proud of this book and I was so happy with the reaction from Mr Kemp when I presented it to him. I had no idea that I’d won the prize from SPAR but, when I was called down to reception, I thought I was in trouble,” she said.

Principal of the school, Alistair Naidu was full of praise for Gaby.

“Gaby has been a model learner since she joined us. I think we all truly enjoy her humility, manners and warmth she brings to the school, especially among her peers and staff. She’s humble and there’s always a smile on her face, even with the mask on,” he said.

Business Manager for Caxton Community Newspapers Durban, Nicole Vosser said the SPAR Superstar competition was a way to give young children a platform to shine.

“By giving this opportunity to schools and its learners, it really opens up more doors for them. As community newspapers, we need to showcase more of what our young children are doing because they are the future,” Vosser said.

SPAR KwaZulu-Natal’s advertising and sponsorship manager, Nozipho Mkhize, echoed Vosser’s sentiments.

“We are excited that we were able to reward this wonderful young lady. She has an amazing heart and has an incredible talent for story-telling and illustrating, which we hope will carry her far in whatever career she pursues,” Mkhize said.

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