Kutlwano Mahlangu proves that success comes through discipline, support and determination.

The 18-year-old matric learner and head boy at Springs Boys High School has found a way to balance academics, leadership responsibilities and a busy extracurricular schedule while keeping his future firmly in sight.

Mahlangu shared that being elected head boy was a moment he will always cherish.

“I am honoured and grateful to the brothers who have trusted me to represent them,” he said.

Beyond his duties as head boy, Mahlangu enjoys writing poetry, listening to jazz music and learning new skills.

He credits careful planning and discipline for helping him manage his many commitments as his day begins long before sunrise.

“I wake up at 04:00 to revise schoolwork. I start getting ready for school around 05:30. After a long day at school and on the sports field, I do my house chores, then homework,” he explained.

While many learners struggle to balance academics and extracurricular activities, Mahlangu has learned to prioritise.

He explained that last year, he participated in athletics, rugby, football and the school band while maintaining his academic commitments.

However, with the increased demands of matric, he scaled back his activities to focus primarily on athletics and band.

“This year I have mainly been focused on athletics and band, but I do step on the rugby field when needed,” said Mahlangu.

He indicated that the decision has helped him dedicate more time to his studies while remaining actively involved in school life.

Balancing matric studies with extracurricular activities can be demanding, but Mahlangu believes the habits he developed earlier in high school have made a difference.

“Building a good timetable in my early years in the FET phase has made matric less hectic, I would say.”

Like many matric learners, he admits that the workload can sometimes become overwhelming.

Mahlangu said that at times, the workload gets to him, but he thinks taking everything one step at a time really helps. During difficult periods, he relies on the support of those closest to him.

“Plenty of times, I have been blessed with a wonderful group of friends who make life easier for one another in a way,” he noted.

One philosophy that continues to guide him is a motto he adopted during Grade 11.

“I adopted the motto ‘C’est la vie’ (that is life) in Grade 11 during a troubling time in my life, and I have been reciting it ever since.

He believes that support from family, friends and teachers is essential for anyone striving to achieve their goals.

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Mahlangu highlighted the importance of family and friends and that without their support, the life he is trying to build would crumble.

The experience of balancing leadership, academics and sport has also helped him develop important life skills.

“I think maintaining composure in dire situations, as well as a sharpened sense of empathy, which I think the world needs more of.”

As head boy, Mahlangu hopes to inspire younger learners with a simple but powerful message.

“No one will do it for you, so find people who will do it with you instead,” he said.

After matric, Mahlangu hopes to attend the University of Pretoria to study biotechnology while continuing to pursue his athletic ambitions.

Looking back on his achievements so far, however, it is not leadership, academics or sport that makes him proudest.

“The relationship I have developed with my mom is by far my proudest achievement. I love my mom,” he concluded.

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