Dr Colleen Cozett from Northlink College speaks to pupils during the mentorship programme at Beacon Hill High School which was organised by Juven Rittles and Mark Jackson, matriculants of the class of 1987 and members of the school's alumni association.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Beacon Hill High School alumni are encouraging the matric class of 2025 to stay focused, to push through challenges, and complete their final year of school with purpose and determination.
They shared this message during a mentorship programme, which took place at the school's hall last Friday, April 11.
The programme was organised by Mark Jackson, matriculant of the class of 1989, and Juven Rittles, matriculant of 1987, and members of the school's alumni association.
Each pupil received a card as a reminder that they are seen, heard, and supported, said Mr Jackson.
Juven Rittles said last year’s mentorship event helped teachers improve the school’s matric pass rate to 88.6% in 2024, placing Beacon Hill sixth in Mitchell’s Plain.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Dr Colleen Cozett from Northlink College told pupils that everything they need to succeed is already within them. “There’s no help coming — if you're waiting for someone to do it for you, get up. Your teachers and we will guide you, but it starts with your decision to listen and act.”
Zeenat Grey, former deputy head girl and now a University of Cape Town law student, congratulated pupils on reaching matric. She shared how she moved between schools and experienced personal loss during her final year, but continued pushing forward. “No one’s always going to tell you to keep going — you must do it for yourself. You’ll miss these moments one day. This place is your starting point.” She is the first in her family to matriculate, she said.
Shadleigh Claassen from Elsies River studied sport coaching at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology but dropped out due to mental health struggles. After working several jobs, he now works for Royal Caribbean on a cruise ship, managing activities like rock climbing, boogie boarding, and zip lining. Paid in dollars, he was able to buy a house and a car. “Do your research. Life is bigger than your community. Prices are rising — think globally. Life is what you make it. Get uncomfortable. Look at the bigger picture.”
Singer Fagrie Isaacs, who joined the boy band The Boys in the late 90s, said: “You are a blank canvas — create your own masterpiece. If you’ve made up your mind, reach for it with everything.”
Image: Marsha Bothma
Singer Fagrie Isaacs, formerly from Strandfontein, attended Oval North High School. He was bullied at a young age and knows what it’s like to become the bully — an experience that taught him about consequences and growth. Music kept him going, and singing in school corridors led to his talent being recognised. He joined the boy band The Boys in the late 90s. “You are a blank canvas — create your own masterpiece. If you’ve made up your mind, reach for it with everything.”
Mr Rittles said they are proud of the school’s matric pass rate of 88.6% in 2024, placing Beacon Hill sixth in Mitchell’s Plain. “This programme shows pupils that no matter where you live, what you look like, or the gangs blocking you on your way to school — if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything,” he said.