🌸Feature 4 – Ms Zoliswa Mthembu (2026/27 School RCL President) Zoliswa Mthembu, School President at Ullovu Secondary School, proudly representing her school as a young woman in leadership. 🌸 There was a time when standing in front of a crowd was one of the things Zoliswa Mthembu feared most. Speaking publicly came with self-doubt and anxiety, and there were moments when she questioned whether she could ever accomplish something great in her life. Today, she stands as the School President of Ullovu Secondary School, a young woman who has learned that leadership is not about never being afraid, but about finding the courage to step forward despite the fear. Beyond her role as School President, Zoliswa is a Grade 11 learner at Ullovu Secondary School, pursuing the science stream and working towards a future she has already begun to imagine. She is the first-born child in her family and was raised by an incredible mother and father who have both worked hard to support their children and teach them important values. Among her siblings, she is proud to be the first to pursue the science stream and the first to take on the responsibility of becoming a School President. For her, these milestones are not simply personal achievements; they represent the beginning of something new within her family. Her journey into leadership was not an easy one. Before stepping into a position where she would have to speak, represent and serve others, she was a learner who was deeply afraid of public speaking. She constantly questioned herself and wondered whether she had what it took to do something meaningful with her life. But rather than allowing those fears to determine her future, she decided to challenge them. Her faith became an important source of strength, particularly the words found in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With that belief, she began stepping outside her comfort zone and deliberately working on her confidence. Becoming School President therefore represents much more to Zoliswa than holding a title. It is proof that a person can overcome the very things they once believed would hold them back. She sees leadership as an opportunity to demonstrate to others that fear does not have to be permanent and that confidence can be developed when one is willing to take the first step. At the same time, she understands the responsibility that comes with being a young female leader. She is not only conscious of the learners who look up to her at school, but also of her younger siblings who are watching her journey. She wants them to see through her life that anything is possible. One of the biggest challenges she has had to overcome has been her own self-doubt and the anxiety she experienced when speaking in front of crowds. Learning to trust her own voice has taken courage and persistence. As a young woman in leadership, she has had to learn to stand in spaces where she may not always feel completely comfortable and to speak even when nervousness tells her to remain silent. The experience has not always been easy, but it has been rewarding because every time she steps forward, she proves something to herself. Her responsibilities as School President also come while she is navigating the demanding academic workload of the science stream. Balancing her studies with leadership responsibilities requires discipline, commitment and careful management of her time. For Zoliswa, however, both aspects of her journey are connected to the future she wants to build. She understands that leadership requires responsibility, while her academic journey is preparing her for the career she hopes to pursue after school. Much of her strength comes from the people and values closest to her. Her mother is her greatest influence, and her resilience has played an important role in shaping the young woman Zoliswa is becoming. Her younger siblings also motivate her because she knows that they are watching the path she takes. She wants to be an example to them and to show them that they can dream beyond what they may currently see around them. Her faith is another important part of her journey. Zoliswa describes her relationship with Jesus as a source of courage and guidance, particularly during moments when she feels terrified or uncertain. Her faith reminds her that she does not have to face every challenge through her own strength alone. She is also grateful for the support of the Ullovu Secondary School family, whose encouragement has contributed to her growth as a learner and leader. While she is proud of becoming the first School President among her siblings and pursuing the science stream, one of her greatest personal achievements is something that may not appear on a certificate: she conquered her fear of public speaking. For someone who once struggled to stand confidently before a crowd, being entrusted with a leadership role represents a significant personal transformation. It is a reminder that some of the greatest victories are not always the ones other people can immediately see. Sometimes, they are the battles fought quietly within oneself. Her ambitions extend well beyond her current role at Ullovu. After completing Grade 12, Zoliswa dreams of pursuing a medical degree and becoming a medical doctor. This ambition is deeply personal because she hopes to become the very first medical doctor in her entire bloodline. Her dream therefore carries the weight of both personal aspiration and family legacy. She is not only imagining the career she wants for herself; she is imagining a future that has never existed in her family before and working towards becoming the person who opens that door. Her journey has also changed the way she understands leadership. She has learned that a leader does not have to be perfect, nor does leadership require a person to never feel nervous. A leader can have doubts and still show up. A leader can feel afraid and still speak. A leader can be uncertain and still choose to serve others. For Zoliswa, leadership is ultimately about showing up for people even when it would be easier to retreat. This understanding shapes the way she views her responsibility towards other young women at Ullovu. She knows what it feels like to doubt yourself because she has lived through it herself. She knows what it feels like to be afraid to speak because she once stood in that exact place. Her hope is that the girls who see her today will understand that confidence is not something reserved for a select few. It can be built, strengthened and discovered through taking opportunities and refusing to allow fear to become the final word. To the young women and girls of Ullovu Secondary School who may currently be doubting themselves, Zoliswa offers a message rooted in her own experience: do not let fear tell you what you can or cannot do. She encourages girls to step out boldly, trust God and believe that they have what it takes to create a different future for themselves and their families. Her story is still being written. She is still a Grade 11 learner, still balancing the demands of the science stream, still growing into leadership and still working towards her dream of becoming a doctor. Yet, perhaps that is what makes her story so powerful. She does not speak from the perspective of someone who has already reached the end of the journey. She speaks as a young woman who is still becoming, still learning and still finding the courage to take the next step. From a learner who once feared speaking before a crowd to the young woman trusted to lead her school, Zoliswa's journey reminds us that sometimes the greatest transformation begins when we decide to confront the thing that scares us most. Her story is not simply about becoming School President. It is about discovering her voice, trusting herself and using that voice to create possibilities for those who will follow. For Zoliswa, the future is not simply something she is waiting for. She is already working towards it — one courageous step, one academic goal and one act of leadership at a time. And as she continues towards her dream of becoming the first medical doctor in her family, she carries with her a lesson she has already learned: you do not have to be fearless to change your story. Sometimes, you simply have to be brave enough to begin.

🌸Feature 2 – Ms Pamela Mbali Mthembu Ms Pamela Mbali Mthembu proudly wears the colours of her academic journey, celebrating her achievements in Higher Education as she continues to inspire the next generation through education. Being the first is never easy. It means entering spaces without a familiar example to follow, facing challenges without a roadmap and carrying the hope that those who come after you will have an easier journey. For Ms Pamela Mbali Mthembu, being the first in her family to enter the science stream, graduate and establish a professional career meant carrying that responsibility while creating a path that had never existed before. Ms Mthembu is a Mathematics and Science Educator at Ullovu Secondary School, where she teaches Mathematics, Life Sciences and Digital Technology. However, her journey into education began long before she stood in front of a classroom. It began with a young girl who understood that education was her strongest opportunity to change her circumstances and who was willing to work hard for the future she envisioned. As the eldest child in a family of four, Ms Mthembu grew up without someone in her family who had already travelled the path she wanted to follow. There was no relative who could show her what a career in science looked like or provide a clear roadmap into the professional world. She became the first in her family to enter the science stream, the first to graduate and the first to establish herself professionally. Each achievement represented more than a personal milestone; it was a step into unfamiliar territory and the beginning of a path that others in her family could one day follow. For Ms Mthembu, academics became the foundation on which she could build that future. With financial constraints making her journey more challenging, she understood that education was the opportunity she had to change her circumstances. She did not have an established professional pathway to follow or someone who could simply guide her through every stage. She had to work hard, remain focused and make the most of her academic abilities. Education became more than a qualification she hoped to obtain; it became the means through which she could create new possibilities for herself and her family. Her journey was tested during her first year at university when her father passed away in the first semester. His death brought a profound sense of loss at a time when she was already navigating the demands of higher education and financial challenges. Her father was someone she had hoped to make proud, and his passing also brought uncertainty about who would provide for the family. With her mother and siblings still depending on the family, she knew that she could not simply abandon the journey she had started. She had to continue. She had to study, remain focused and work even harder. The circumstances around her had changed, but her determination could not. She knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but she also knew what education represented for her. It was an opportunity to become something different, to open doors and to prove that where there was no established path, one could be created. Financial constraints remained part of her journey, requiring her to work hard academically and make use of every opportunity available to help her progress through her studies. Without a network of relatives who could simply provide a way forward, she had to depend on her determination, her academic ability, guidance and faith. Her journey required resilience, particularly because she was not only pursuing her own dreams but also becoming an example for the people around her. One of the things that continues to motivate Ms Mthembu is the belief that a girl from a township can do wonders. She knows that there are people watching her, including members of her family and the children she teaches at Sunday school. She understands that her journey can influence how young people see their own possibilities. For her, success is therefore not only personal. It carries a responsibility to those who may be inspired by her. Her faith has been an important part of that journey. A Scripture that holds particular meaning for her is Genesis 16:13, where God is referred to as El Roi, the God who sees me. For Ms Mthembu, this speaks to the reassurance that even during moments when she felt that she had to carry difficult circumstances on her own, she was never unseen. She believes that God saw her through the challenges of her studies, the loss of her father, financial difficulties and the uncertainty that accompanied her journey. Her faith taught her that she did not have to carry every burden alone. Even without relatives who could simply create opportunities for her, she believed that God was present and that He would help her through the challenges ahead. That belief gave her the strength to continue moving forward, even when the road was difficult. Her perseverance eventually led her to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics and Cellular Biology. She later pursued a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, majoring in Life Sciences and Mathematics, turning her academic journey into a profession centred on helping others learn and grow. The young woman who had once had no one to show her the way had now become the person who could stand in front of a classroom and show others what was possible. It is this part of her journey that makes her role at Ullovu Secondary School particularly meaningful. For Ms Mthembu, being an educator at Ullovu means everything. She sees teaching as an opportunity to multiply herself through the learners she teaches, particularly the girls. When she looks at the young people in her classroom, she sees parts of her own journey in them. She sees the learner who may come from a township and wonder whether a career in science is possible. She sees the girl who may struggle with Mathematics and begin to question her own ability. She sees the young person whose family may not have the professional experience or resources to provide a clear roadmap for the future. And she wants them to know that it is possible. Ms Mthembu uses her own experience to encourage learners to believe that their circumstances do not determine the size of their dreams. She wants young girls to understand that they belong in science, that they can pursue careers in fields they may never have considered and that their backgrounds should never become a reason to limit their ambitions. Her presence at Ullovu allows her to do more than teach a curriculum. She is able to become the example she once needed. She also carries a deep sense of responsibility towards the learners she teaches. Ms Mthembu says that she refuses to give up on her learners because people before her did not give up on her. She remembers the opportunities and support that helped her continue when the journey was difficult, and she now sees it as her responsibility to extend that same belief to the next generation. In her classroom, she makes an effort to give everyone a chance. She understands what it means for life to give someone an opportunity without first asking about their background, position or circumstances. Having received opportunities that helped shape her own journey, she wants her learners to experience that same possibility. Her message to young women and girls is built around one important principle: focus. “Whatever you focus on is magnified,” she says. For Ms Mthembu, young women need to take their academics seriously and develop a clear picture of the person they want to become. She encourages them to understand that they are already building their personal brand from a young age. From Grade 8 through Grade 12, every decision they make, every action they take and every choice they make contributes to the story they are writing about themselves. She wants learners to think about their futures early, particularly those who choose the science stream. Knowing what career they want to pursue can help them set goals and make deliberate choices about their education. She encourages them to set the picture clearly, put their goals in front of them and aim high. But she also wants them to understand that the road towards success will not always be perfect. Failure, she believes, is not the end of the journey. It can be another step towards becoming the person you want to be. What matters is the willingness to continue, to learn from mistakes and to improve. Her advice is simple: try today, try again tomorrow and keep getting better. She compares the brain to a muscle that becomes stronger through continuous use. For her, this is a reminder that young people should not allow a difficult subject or an initial failure to convince them that they are incapable. With practice, persistence and a willingness to learn, they can improve. At the same time, she warns young people about the consequences of losing focus. Distractions can take learners away from their goals and eventually leave them with regrets about opportunities they did not take seriously. She wants young people to avoid looking back at their lives and asking, “What if I had done this?” Instead, she encourages them to give themselves every possible opportunity while they are still in school. Her message is ultimately one of possibility. She believes that the world is their oyster and that young people can do extraordinary things with their minds when they nurture those minds through education and focus. She wants young women to recognise that there is power within them and that their circumstances do not have the final say over their futures. For Ms Mthembu, this belief is deeply personal. She knows what it means to start without a roadmap. She knows what it means to face financial challenges, to lose a parent during university and to carry the responsibility of being the first. She knows what it means to have to work harder because there is no established path waiting for you. But she also knows what it means to keep going. Today, she stands at Ullovu not only as a Mathematics and Science Educator, but as living evidence of what education, perseverance and faith can make possible. Every Mathematics lesson, every Life Sciences discussion and every conversation with a learner becomes another opportunity to pass forward what she has learned along her own journey. Her story is therefore not simply about becoming the first. It is about what she has chosen to do with being the first. She has taken the road she built and turned back to help others find their way. As Ullovu Secondary School continues its 🌸 #USSWomen | Women Who Inspire campaign, Ms Pamela Mbali Mthembu's story reminds us that some of the most powerful forms of leadership happen quietly—in classrooms, through conversations, through encouragement and through the decision to believe in another person's potential. The young woman who once had to create her own roadmap is now helping a new generation draw theirs. She is showing young girls that a township background does not have to define the limits of their ambitions, that science is within their reach and that education can open doors they may not yet be able to see. She was the first to walk the road. Now, she is helping others walk it too. Where there was no road, she built one. 🌸

🌸Feature 3 – A Women Who Inspire Some stories are not defined by a name, but by the impact of a life lived with purpose. For this edition of #USSWomen | Women Who Inspire, we share the story of a woman whose journey reflects perseverance, determination and the courage to continue pursuing her dreams even when life takes an unexpected direction. In keeping with her wishes, her identity will remain private. Her story, however, deserves to be heard. She was born and raised in a small town in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, where her family background instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance and responsibility. These values would later become important foundations in both her personal and professional journey. From an early age, she developed aspirations for a career in economics. Her dream was to become an economic analyst, and this ambition led her to pursue a BCom in Economics. Like many journeys, however, hers did not unfold exactly as she had imagined. Life presented new circumstances and opportunities that ultimately led her into education. What may initially have seemed like a departure from her original career path became an opportunity to discover another form of purpose: the opportunity to influence, guide and empower young people through education. Today, she serves as a teacher, where her role extends beyond teaching content in a classroom. Through education, she contributes to the development of young people who are preparing to navigate a complex world and build futures of their own. Her journey reminds us that success is not always about following the path we first imagined for ourselves. Sometimes, purpose is discovered along the way. The transition from aspiring economist to educator also speaks to the importance of adaptability. A change in direction does not necessarily mean that a dream has been abandoned. Rather, it can become the beginning of a different journey—one in which our skills, knowledge and experiences are used to serve others. Her story is particularly meaningful during Women’s Month, because it highlights a form of inspiration that is often found in ordinary, everyday perseverance. It is found in women who continue to work, learn, teach and contribute despite the challenges they encounter. Her experience also carries an important message for young people: the career you begin pursuing and the person you eventually become do not always have to follow the same route. Dreams may evolve. Circumstances may change. Opportunities may appear in unexpected places. What matters is the willingness to keep moving forward, to learn from every season of life and to use each experience as part of one's growth. Her journey from a small town in northern KwaZulu-Natal, through higher education and an initial ambition to work in economics, to becoming an educator demonstrates precisely that. She may have entered education through a path she did not originally plan, but today she occupies a position where her knowledge and experience can help shape the lives of others, and perhaps that is one of the most powerful forms of success—not simply achieving the career we once imagined, but finding meaning in the work we eventually do. A story worth remembering. We often celebrate women for their titles, achievements and visible milestones. Yet some of the most powerful stories are found in the everyday choices to persevere, to keep learning, to accept change and to continue making a difference. This is one of those stories. For the woman whose story we share today, anonymity does not make her contribution any less significant. Her identity may remain private, but her message can still inspire. Her journey reminds us that the road to purpose is not always straight—and that changing direction does not mean losing one's way. Sometimes, the unexpected road becomes the one that allows us to make the greatest difference. This is her story.This is her journey.And this is why she is one of the women who inspire us.

ULLOVU – The male staff members of Ullovu Secondary School took time to celebrate and appreciate their female colleagues on Friday, 14 August, as part of the school’s commemoration of Women’s Day. The celebration provided an opportunity for the male staff to recognise and honour the women who form an important part of the Ullovu Secondary School community. Each female staff member was presented with a flower and chocolate as a gesture of appreciation. The celebration continued with the women being treated to a braai, accompanied by drinks, creating an opportunity for staff to relax, connect and enjoy the occasion together. The gesture reflected the spirit of appreciation that forms part of Women’s Month, recognising the contribution of women not only within the classroom but also across the wider school community. The celebration also highlighted the importance of creating a school environment where staff members appreciate and support one another. Through the simple gestures of flowers, chocolates, food and fellowship, the male staff ensured that their female colleagues felt valued and celebrated. As Ullovu Secondary School continues its #USSWomen | Women Who Inspire campaign, the celebration added a personal dimension to the school's Women's Month commemorations, honouring the women who contribute to the daily life and continued growth of the school. The occasion was a reminder that celebrating women extends beyond a single day, with appreciation, respect and support remaining important throughout the year.

🌸 Feature 1 – Mrs Lindelwa Nonhle Ndlovu Mrs Lindelwa Nonhle Ndlovu, entrepreneur and founder of Siyakhonya Trading. Some dreams never disappear. They may be delayed by life's unexpected turns, hidden beneath responsibilities or overshadowed by disappointment, but they remain quietly alive, waiting for the courage to pursue them once again. For Mrs Lindelwa Nonhle Ndlovu, that courage came from faith, resilience and a decision to never allow her circumstances to define her future. As Ullovu Secondary School commemorates Women's Month through the #USSWomen | Women Who Inspire campaign, we celebrate women whose lives remind us that true success is not measured only by titles or achievements, but by purpose, perseverance and the impact they have on others. Mrs Ndlovu's journey is one of those stories. Today, many members of the Ullovu community know Mrs Ndlovu as the warm and welcoming entrepreneur behind the school's tuck shop. Learners know her as someone who always greets them with a smile, staff know her for her dedication, and parents have come to appreciate the care she shows to every child who walks through her doors. Yet behind that smile is a story of determination, faith and the courage to begin again. At just 33 years old, Mrs Ndlovu is a devoted wife to Mr Senzo Ndlovu, a proud mother to five beautiful daughters and the founder of Siyakhonya Trading. Long before she became a business owner, however, she was simply a young matric learner with big dreams. Looking back at her school years, she remembers seeing herself as a successful entrepreneur, working for herself, creating employment opportunities, owning multiple streams of income and building a life that reflected the ambitions she carried in her heart. After completing matric, she took her first step towards those dreams by enrolling to study Financial Management at Swinton College. Like many young people, she believed she was following the path that would eventually lead her to the future she had always imagined. Life, however, had different plans. During her second semester, at only nineteen years old, she became engaged. While this marked the beginning of a beautiful new chapter, it also introduced responsibilities she had never anticipated. She remembers feeling overwhelmed by the expectations that often come with becoming someone's wife. There were family expectations, societal expectations and the pressure of trying to balance education with a growing family. As she embraced motherhood, those responsibilities became even greater. She eventually made the difficult decision to leave her studies. At the time, she admits that shame played a significant role in that decision. Becoming a young mother caused her to question herself and the dreams she had once held so dearly. Slowly, the confident young woman who had imagined building businesses began to believe that perhaps those dreams belonged only to her younger self. For some time, life simply moved forward. Yet somewhere deep inside her, the dreams never truly disappeared. Then came a moment that would change everything. Mrs Ndlovu recalls having what she describes as a meeting with herself. She paused and asked one simple but powerful question: "What happened to me? What happened to my dreams?". Those questions awakened something she had almost forgotten. She realised that although life had changed, the purpose within her had not. The ambitious young woman she once imagined had never left, she had simply become buried beneath life's responsibilities. That moment became the beginning of her comeback. Determined to rebuild herself, she committed to learning again. She began attending entrepreneurship workshops organised by eThekwini Municipality and other organisations. She registered on business development platforms, attended conferences, seminars, business indabas and every opportunity she could find to grow her knowledge. She understood that before she could build a successful business, she first needed to rebuild her confidence. Every workshop became another lesson. Every conference became another opportunity to believe in herself again. Every seminar reminded her that it was never too late to start over. In 2014, Mrs Ndlovu registered Siyakhonya Trading, taking one of the biggest steps of her life. By 2016, the business officially began operating. "It was then," she reflects, "that I truly fell in love with entrepreneurship." For Mrs Ndlovu, Siyakhonya Trading represented far more than a registered company. It represented the fulfilment of a promise she had made to herself, that she would never abandon the dreams placed inside her heart. Throughout every season of her journey, one thing remained constant, Her faith. Mrs Ndlovu describes herself first and foremost as a woman of God. She believes that every achievement in her life has been made possible through trusting God's plan, even during seasons when she could not understand it herself. The Scripture that has guided her through every challenge is Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." She says this verse became more than encouragement, it became her way of living. To her, God's plans already exist. Our responsibility is to faithfully take the steps that move us towards those plans. That belief continues to shape not only her business, but also her family. Together with her husband, they have built a home centred on God. They believe they are called to live lives of purpose and that everything they do should ultimately glorify Him by serving others. Perhaps nowhere is that purpose more visible than at Ullovu Secondary School. Many people may simply see a tuck shop, but Mrs Ndlovu sees something completely different. She sees an opportunity to change lives. When she first began operating the school's tuck shop, she remembers hearing people describe her as "just the tuck shop aunt." Rather than becoming discouraged, she challenged herself to think differently. She wanted to become more than someone who sold food. She wanted to become someone who gave hope. She noticed that some learners arrived at school without having eaten breakfast. Instead of seeing hungry learners, she saw children who needed someone to care. She introduced early morning breakfasts and warm tea, ensuring that learners could begin their day with something nourishing before entering the classroom. But food was never her greatest contribution, Love was. She believes every learner deserves kindness, respect and genuine care. Every smile she gives, every conversation she has and every word of encouragement she shares is intentional. "It is not about selling," she says. "It is about a heart-to-heart exchange." She believes that learners should leave the tuck shop feeling better than when they arrived. Even on difficult days in her own life, she chooses not to carry those burdens into her interactions with learners. She understands that a single smile or encouraging word may be exactly what a learner needs to face the rest of the day. That, she believes, is her real purpose. Being part of the Ullovu family has also inspired another dream she once thought she had lost forever, Graduation. Looking at the learners she serves every day reminded her of the young girl who once dreamed of completing her studies. Rather than allowing that dream to remain unfinished, she decided to pursue it once again. Today, Mrs Ndlovu is studying at Capsicum Culinary Studio, expanding her culinary knowledge and developing new skills that will help transform the Ullovu tuck shop into something even greater. Her vision is ambitious. She dreams of creating a restaurant-quality experience within a school environment, introducing exciting recipes, innovative menus and new ideas that will continue improving the service she offers to the Ullovu community. Yet for her, graduating represents far more than obtaining a qualification. It is about healing the younger Nonhle who once believed that dream had ended. Her story is a reminder that no dream has an expiry date. As Women's Month encourages us to celebrate women who inspire, Mrs Ndlovu hopes her journey reminds young girls and women that their circumstances should never determine their future. She encourages them to return to school if they have left. To start the business they have been afraid to begin, write the CV, apply for the opportunity, and believe that they can achieve far more than they imagine. Her message is simple, yet powerful: "Never stop dreaming. Believe in yourself. Trust God's plan for your life, because He has already prepared a future for you." She smiles before sharing the words she hopes every young woman will carry with them: "Mbokodo, qhawe elinamandla. Kunamandla avalelwe kuwe. You are powerful. A heroine of strength. There is incredible power locked inside you." At Ullovu Secondary School, we are privileged to celebrate women like Mrs Lindelwa Nonhle Ndlovu, women whose influence extends far beyond their job titles. Through entrepreneurship, unwavering faith, compassion and purposeful service, she has transformed an ordinary tuck shop into a place where learners experience kindness, encouragement and hope. Her journey reminds us that success is not only about reaching our dreams. Sometimes, it is about finding the courage to dream again. And perhaps that is why her story deserves to be told. Because in inspiring others, she continues to live the very purpose she once feared she had lost. You are destined for greatness. 🌸

ULLOVU – Grade 9 learners at Ullovu Secondary School were given an opportunity to explore the relationship between subject choices and future careers when Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) visited the school on Saturday, 25 July 2026, as part of a community outreach programme. The engagement focused on helping learners make meaningful decisions as they prepare to choose their subjects for the senior phase of their schooling. MUT representatives guided learners through the importance of understanding their interests, abilities and future aspirations when making subject choices, while highlighting how different subjects can support various career pathways. The programme was aligned with Ullovu’s different academic streams, allowing learners to consider how their subject choices can connect with future studies and careers. Learners were assisted in understanding the importance of particular subjects for different career pathways and were encouraged to make informed choices rather than selecting subjects based only on the choices of their friends or popular perceptions about particular streams. A key message from the engagement was that all streams are important and can lead to meaningful opportunities. Learners were encouraged to recognise that different academic pathways provide different opportunities, with the most important consideration being whether their subject choices align with their interests, strengths and future goals. The engagement also gave learners an opportunity to think beyond their immediate academic decisions and consider the possibilities that exist after Grade 12. By connecting subject choices to future careers and further study, the programme helped learners begin thinking more carefully about the direction they want to take in the years ahead. As part of the outreach, MUT also provided lunch for the learners, adding to the engagement and creating an opportunity for the university to connect with the school community beyond the formal career guidance session. The visit formed part of the ongoing long-term partnership between Ullovu Secondary School and Mangosuthu University of Technology. Having already engaged with the school twice this year, MUT continues to support learner development through initiatives that expose learners to career opportunities, further study and meaningful educational experiences. The partnership is expected to continue creating opportunities for Ullovu learners in the years ahead. For Ullovu’s Grade 9 learners, the programme came at an important stage in their schooling as they prepare to make choices that will shape their academic journey. The engagement reinforced the importance of making those choices with knowledge, purpose and a clear understanding of the opportunities that different subjects and streams can offer.

Ullovu Secondary School continues to strengthen learner development through its partnership with PPR Education, which has enabled strategic collaboration with BET Software focused on both immediate learning support and long-term career pathways. As part of this partnership, BET Software provided a technology sponsorship that includes 15 laptops with keyboards, a projector, an interactive whiteboard, and a smart power source for appliances. These resources are intended to enhance digital teaching and learning, improve learner engagement, and ensure continuity of learning during power interruptions. In addition to infrastructure support, the partnership introduces a future-facing opportunity for Ullovu learners. From 2027 onwards, learners who pursue ICT and technology-related qualifications at university will be eligible to apply for the BET Software Dare To Dream Bursary Programme. This national programme supports passionate ICT students by funding their studies and preparing them for entry into the technology industry. Learners who excel during their tertiary studies may further progress into the BET Software Graduate Programme, a structured 12-month development programme. Through this programme, graduates gain practical workplace experience, develop soft skills, business acumen, and product knowledge, and rotate across different departments under the guidance of experienced mentors. This pathway provides Ullovu learners with a clear progression from secondary education to tertiary study and into the workplace, particularly within high-demand technology fields. It aligns with Ullovu Secondary School’s identity as a Mathematics, Science and Technology school, reinforcing its commitment to preparing learners for careers in the digital economy. The collaboration between Ullovu Secondary School, PPR Education, and BET Software reflects the value of partnerships that combine education, industry exposure, and long-term skills development. Through such initiatives, Ullovu continues to expand access to resources, opportunities, and career pathways that support learner success beyond the classroom.

ULLOVU – With exactly 100 days remaining before the start of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, Ullovu Secondary School officially launched its countdown campaign on Tuesday, 7 July, bringing together the Class of 2026 in the school hall for an afternoon of reflection, encouragement and renewed commitment to academic success. The programme marked the beginning of the final stretch towards the matric examinations, reminding learners that every lesson attended, every page studied and every decision made over the next 100 days will contribute to their final results. Throughout the event, learners were encouraged to remain focused, plan their time wisely and support one another as they prepare for one of the most important milestones of their school careers. A defining moment of the programme came as Principal Mrs Gcabashe led the Class of 2026 in the school's newly introduced 100-Day Daily Affirmations. During a candle-lighting ceremony, learners collectively affirmed their commitment to discipline, resilience and excellence, declaring: "We are the Class of 2026. We are focused. We are determined. We are resilient. We will work hard, support one another, and make Ullovu Secondary School proud. We believe in ourselves, and we will succeed." Each learner also received a printed copy of the affirmations, which they were encouraged to display in their study spaces and recite every day throughout the examination countdown. The school also welcomed Mrs Ndlovu, a parent, who shared a message of encouragement with the matric class before leading them in prayer and a declaration over the final 100 days. Her message reminded learners that they do not walk the journey alone and encouraged them to place their trust in God while remaining committed to their responsibilities. Learners also took ownership of the programme by motivating their classmates through a series of peer addresses centred on planning, perseverance and self-belief. One of the speakers, Owami Khoza, challenged the class to approach the next 100 days with determination, repeatedly declaring, "I will. I can. I must." Reflecting on the journey ahead, she reminded learners that just as a diamond undergoes a process before it shines, success is achieved through preparation, discipline and consistent hard work. She also expressed appreciation to the school's teachers for their continued commitment to supporting the matric class. Addressing her fellow learners, Owami Vezi urged the Class of 2026 to recognise that their future depends on the choices they make today. Quoting the words, "The future depends on what you do today, not tomorrow, not next week, but today," she encouraged learners to make every day count. She further challenged the popular saying that pressure creates diamonds, arguing instead that pressure reveals what people are truly made of. Encouraging unity among the class, she reminded learners that while one may go fast alone, lasting success is often achieved together. She concluded by encouraging every learner to leave a legacy, saying history remembers those who tried, not those who almost did. Another learner, Mr Stokwe, reminded his peers that while they may come from different backgrounds, they all have the opportunity to change their circumstances through education. He challenged the matric class to remain focused despite the social and economic realities many face at home, noting that some learners dream of one day buying a refrigerator for their families, while others have the opportunity to become the first in their bloodline to obtain a matric certificate. His message encouraged learners to see education as a tool for breaking barriers and creating a different future for themselves and their families. As the countdown to the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations officially begins, Ullovu Secondary School continues to invest in initiatives that strengthen learner confidence, promote academic excellence and inspire resilience. The next 100 days now stand as an opportunity for every member of the Class of 2026 to turn preparation into performance and determination into success.

UllovuSS has concluded the election of its 2025 Representative Council of Learners (RCL) , following formal learner leadership processes held from Friday, 30 Jan - Monday, 2 February. The first elections resulted in the appointment of Zoliswa Mthembu  as RCL President and Lwandile Mthiyane  as Deputy President. The two also serve as the school’s Head Girl and Head Boy respectively , with Mthembu from Grade 11B  and Mthiyane from Grade 11C . Other members of the executive include Mana Wosiyana  as Secretary, assisted by Kwanele Mthethwa  (Grade 11E ) as Deputy Secretary. Athayanda Ngwabe  from Grade 12A  was elected Treasurer, with Ndumiso Nzama  serving as Deputy Treasurer. The handover of leadership took place during a school assembly on the 2nd of Feb, where the outgoing RCL President and Deputy President formally transferred responsibilities  to the newly elected executive. A full RCL Assembly is scheduled for Monday next week , during which all RCL members will be officially introduced to the school community. In addition to the executive, learners were elected to serve on various RCL desks, each tasked with supporting specific areas of school life. The Education Desk  comprises Mkhize Kwanele, Olwethu Sokhela, Mkhize Kwenzokuhle, and Aphiwe Mhlongo , focusing on academic matters and learner support. The Cultural, Sports and Entertainment Desk  includes Magutshwa Bongeka, Madonsela Aphelele, Ngidi Avuyile, Maphumulo Sibusiso, and Msomi Muziwakhe , and will be responsible for promoting learner participation in cultural activities, sport and school events. The Religious and Bereavement Desk  is made up of Sinenjabulo, Aphiwe Gambushe, Nzama Bandile, and Athalente Ngubane , providing support around spiritual activities and learner welfare during times of loss. The RCL remains a key structure in promoting learner leadership, accountability and representation at Ullovu Secondary School. The election process reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to developing responsible young leaders who contribute positively to the school environment.

ULLOVU –  The Class of 2025 has made us proud! Ullovu Secondary School achieved a phenomenal 93.9% pass rate , building on the 80.1% of 2024. This is a clear reflection of the dedication, discipline, and hard work of our learners and educators. This year, 98 learners wrote the NSC exams , and 92 passed , with 70 earning Bachelor passes , 16 Diploma passes , and 6 Higher Certificate passes . Every subject offered at the school saw learners achieve distinctions, proving that excellence was a hallmark of this matric year. Highlights of learner achievement include: Mathematics:  75% pass rate, 1 distinction Mathematical Literacy:  94% pass rate, 2 distinctions Physical Sciences:  85.4% pass rate, 1 distinction Life Sciences:  95.8% pass rate, 1 distinction Economics:  96.3% pass rate, 1 distinction Our learners also excelled across languages and subjects: IsiZulu HL 59 As, English FAL 9 As, Life Orientation 46 As, Accounting 1 A, Geography 3 As, History 1 A, Tourism 1 A, Business Studies 8 As . These results are not just numbers; they tell a story of resilience, perseverance, and the power of teamwork  between learners, teachers, and parents. The Class of 2025 has set a new standard of excellence at Ullovu, showing what is possible with focus and determination. As we celebrate this achievement, Ullovu Secondary School remains committed to supporting learners, nurturing talent, and preparing them for success in further studies and beyond. The Class of 2025 has left a legacy of pride and achievement. The future is bright, and Ullovu continues to shine!

ULLOVU – Learners in the Class of 2026 at Ullovu Secondary School received motivation from a former learner during their Grade 12 Headstart programme on Wednesday, 7 January. The alumna, Sibongile Mtolo , a 2024 matriculant who is currently studying Medicine in North America, visited the school to encourage learners as they begin their final year of schooling. During her engagement with the Grade 12 learners, Sibongile urged them to remain focused and avoid distractions, emphasising that their future is worth protecting. She encouraged learners to dream big, apply widely when the time comes – including to institutions abroad – and to take full advantage of opportunities presented to them without doubting their abilities. She shared her own journey, explaining that she applied to study medicine even though she did not fully meet the minimum requirements, but believed in herself and took the chance. She expressed confidence in the current matric class, describing the Class of 2026 as a strong and capable group that has the potential to achieve positive results at the end of the year. Sibongile is set to depart South Africa for North America on Saturday, but committed to returning to spend more time with the Class of 2026 when she is back in the country. Her visit formed part of the school’s efforts to expose learners to real-life success stories and to reinforce a culture of ambition, resilience and academic focus. The session left learners encouraged as they begin a crucial academic year that will shape their post-school opportunities.

Ullovu Secondary School has entered into an official partnership with PPR Education , a Durban-based education organisation that works with public schools to strengthen teaching, learning, and learner support. The partnership is centred on a shared commitment to improving academic outcomes and creating meaningful learning experiences for learners and teachers alike. By working together, Ullovu Secondary School and PPR Education aim to enhance classroom practice, provide additional academic support, and expand access to learning resources. PPR Education supports schools through a range of education-focused initiatives, including technology integration in classrooms, teacher development, after-school academic support, and digital literacy programmes. These interventions are designed to complement the work already taking place in schools and to respond to the real needs of learners and educators. For Ullovu Secondary School, this partnership brings several key benefits. Learners will gain access to additional academic support and learning opportunities that reinforce classroom teaching and encourage deeper understanding. The integration of digital tools and interactive learning approaches will also help make lessons more engaging and relevant. Teachers will benefit from professional development and support aimed at strengthening lesson delivery, learner engagement, and the effective use of technology in teaching. This aligns with the school’s ongoing efforts to support educators and continuously improve teaching and learning practices. The Ullovu × PPR Education partnership reflects the school’s broader vision of academic excellence, innovation, and learner development. It is a step towards building a learning environment where learners are supported holistically and prepared to succeed in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven world. Further information regarding specific programmes and activities linked to this partnership will be shared as they are rolled out.