Grantleigh’s cream of the crop
Seven distinctions each for four Grantleigh school learners.
FOUR Grantleigh Schools learners each earned seven distinctions for their IEB Matric exams, a showcase of the best and brightest from Zululand.
Sana Hashmi, who features on the front page of this edition of the ZO, placed in the top 5% in the country – but she was given a run for her money by her peers, who we caught up with for a quick chat:
Vuyiswa Nompumza (distinctions for English, isiZulu, Maths, Life Orientation, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Accounting):
‘Just getting through the year has been a great achievement trying to balance work, leadership and other responsibilities with relationships with my friends,’ said Vuyiswa, who was also Deputy Head Girl for 2016.
She hopes to study medicine at the University of Pretoria, with an eye on becoming a surgeon.
‘My greatest motivation this year has definitely been my twin sister and best friend, Lwethu, who always pushes me to be the best person I can be.’
Tessa Stallard (distinctions for English, Afrikaans, Maths, Life Orientation, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Accounting):
‘Preparations for exams were stressful but the tests themselves were fair,’ said Tessa, who will be studying a Bachelor of Science at the University of the Witwatersrand next year.
‘My family and friends kept me going with lots of love and support, with my parents being my main inspiration,’ she said.
Saman Akhtar (distinctions for English, Afrikaans, Maths, Life Orientation, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and EGD):
Saman this year battled not only the stresses of Matric exams and studying, but was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer in July – just as prelim exams were due to start.
But in a true display of absolute determination to succeed no matter what challenges life could bring, Saman had to endure chemo therapy while studying for the most important exams of her life so far.
And she didn’t just pass, she knocked the ball out of the park.
‘I have been working really hard since Grade 1, and I was not about to give up,’ said a smiling Saman, who exudes energy and cannot seem to stop a smiling.
‘Yes, cancer is bad and it was a massive shock for myself and my parents to find out, but I accepted it. You have to, to be able to carry on.’
Saman plans to study medicine at either University of Pretoria or Cape Town, depending on a few factors.
‘God has been my primary source of motivation this year,’ she said.
‘My family and friends have also encouraged me and motivated me, and I think I made them proud.’
Her parents, Dr Saad Akkhtar and mom Aneesa both expressed their gratitude to Grantleigh and the teachers, the oncology team and everyone including friends and family who helped.
‘I received an award this year for ‘Triumph over Adversity, which made me proud of my decision to carry on and work hard.’
Saman’s year book quote summed it up perfectly – ‘Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.’
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
