Young leaders at Cedar High recognised by Mayor for community impact
In the back from left are, Ashley Potts, Ward 81 councillor, Marvin Sampson, community liaison officer from the mayor's office, and in front are Raelene Arendse, PR councillor, Melissa Verkuil, parent, pupils, Kirsten Verkuil, Janaan Abrahams, Aisha Essop, Charline Hama, Matthew Gililand, and Belinda Groeneveldt, principal, holding their prize.
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Cedar High School pupils have been named recipients of the Mayor’s Civic Pride Award, which recognises individuals and groups demonstrating civic pride and actively contributing to making Cape Town a better place.
Cedar High teacher Danii Kempshall said it was a pleasure and honour to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of pupils Janan Abrahams, Matthew Gilliland, Aisha Essop, Dominic van Wyk, Charline Hama, and Kirsten Vercuil, who were nominated by their teachers for their exceptional contributions.
“These pupils have distinguished themselves not only through their academic dedication but also through their involvement in numerous school and community initiatives,” Ms Kempshall said.
Principal Belinda Groeneveldt, Kirsten Verkuil, pupil, and Ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts on Wednesday, November 12, at the handover gathering.
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The pupils received their awards at a ceremony at the school on Wednesday November 13, attended by stakeholders, teachers, and community members.
Principal Belinda Groeneveldt said it is an honour and a privilege to receive the award, adding that the pupils are focused on doing well, show pride in their school, and give back to their community through leadership and goodwill.
Programmes include the Kirstenbosch Rotary Interact, Colombia Leadership, Awareness Programmes in Substance Abuse (APISA), the Duncan feeding scheme, and the Cedar High Humanitarian Awards.
Father, Bradley Van Wyk, ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts, mother Renee Van Wyk and her daughter Dominique Van Wyk. They were very proud of their daughter and classmates achievements.
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Pupils run feeding schemes at home, promote respect, anti-littering, and dignity, and even introduced mirrors in bathrooms so pupils can maintain their appearance. The school also launched its own drilling squad this term, Ms Groeneveldt said.
Among their achievements, the pupils have contributed to the drilling team, instilling discipline and teamwork; participated in community service projects through the Rotary Club; and developed communication and leadership skills through the Media Club. They also assisted in mentoring younger pupils, organising charity drives, and supporting local environmental and educational initiatives, said Ms Kempshall.
Ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts said Cedar High continues to shine through academics, arts, and discipline-driven activities. "This Mayor’s Civic Pride Award is well deserved, reflecting the school’s strong leadership and commitment to developing confident, capable pupils. I am proud to have such a progressive school in Ward 81 and commend the pupils for their excellence."
“What sets these pupils apart is their resilience in overcoming socio-economic challenges. They have chosen hard work, perseverance, and integrity, showing that character matters more than circumstance,” she said.
Their actions reflect the core values of the Department of Basic Education - respect, integrity, accountability, and compassion. By serving others and excelling academically, they uplift both themselves and their peers, embodying the spirit of Cedar High School, she said.
"As they move toward new opportunities, Cedar High celebrates them not only for their achievements but also for who they have become: young leaders carrying hope, resilience, and integrity into their communities," said Ms Kempshall.