The Iris Magazine 2007

Volleyball

VOLLEYBALL U19B VOLLEYBALL U16A

Back Row (L-R): Jessica Meyer, Mariska Grimbeek, Ekemini Eyita, Nancy Back Row (L-R): Melissa Pike, Thumo Nelovhalani, Onela Mtilwa, Carin
Kachienga, Andrea Spyron Jansen van Vuuren
Front Row (L-R): Danila Molgy, Ms E Mostert, Caitlin Gandy, Ms T Mtimkulu, Front Row (L-R): Kgomotso Mogadime, Robyn Williams, Ms T Chobokoane,
Nazan Korkmaz Caitlin Pike, Masego Maleboa

VOLLEYBALL U16B VOLLEYBALL U14A

Back Row (L-R): Tenushka Govender, Jeenette Mabasa, Diane Mathibe, Back Row (L-R): Mpho Biko, Bronwyn Aspeling, Jenna Rossi, Shadi Monkoe
Cassandra Willers, Atelma Ponelis, Kgaogelo Mkhonto, Cintia Carvalho, Sibongile Front Row (L-R): Lynne Daniels, Ms T Chobokoane, Vanessa da Silva,
Mahlangu, Mikayla Platts Ms C Wenhold, Ting-Ting Zhang
Front Row (L-R): Tayla Paul, Ms T Mtimkulu, Nonkululeka Mkwanazi, Ms C
Mdletshe, Lebo Mokolane

VOLLEYBALL U14B

Back Row (L-R): Alex Senatore, Chevaughn van der Westhuizen,

Nicole Camara, Suzette Esterhuizen, Gale Maimane

Front Row (L-R): Bronwyn Binedell, Ms B Cass, Chantelle Fekete,

Ms T Mtimkulu, Chelsea Paterson The Iris 99PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Water polo

Water polo

WATER POLO 1ST TEAM

Back Row (L-R): Christie Prost, Rachel Pickering, Kym Smith, Nadine Watson, Liz Bolink, Janneke Hattingh, Christine Roos,
Kimmie Bosman, Sammy Prost
Front Row (L-R): Severn Williams, Siobhan Oelofsen, Ms L Austin, Sheila-Ann Roos, Vicky McGaw

No aquatic sport can match the spirit and camaraderie water some of the top girls' school teams in South Africa. At the
polo evokes within its participants. The challenges this game Aquatics Festival they proved themselves a force to be reckoned
presents to its athletes can prove intoxicating, becoming (in with, with no game after that being an exception as they
most cases) addictive! conquered Boys High's U16A and Third Team which should
Starting the 2007 polo season, we saw our teams in the pool for a serve as proof enough (we don't believe that went down too well
gruelling match against Crawford Lonehill. This match at old PBHS!)
appeared most challenging for the Grade 10 girls who had only Our First Team therefore showed incredible talent and
just returned (minus sleep and beautifully bruised) from the enthusiasm while remaining members are also sure to reach great
EEC excursion. heights. With every passing year, water polo attracts more and
As the ice-breaker to a terrific season of water polo, our girls more young talent to the poolside, creating bonds of friendship
learnt never to give up (no matter how much pain they had to that are never forgotten. More gratitude is owed to the coaches
endure) because giving up gave our coaches far too much and liaison teachers than can be expressed. I wish to thank Ms
satisfaction! Thus every team gave it their all. Our First Team Austin (Head of PHSG Water polo) for all her hard work and for
participated in a number of tournaments, including the St ensuring that each team has games to play. We owe you a hug and
Peter's three day National Tournament, and they played against Coach Claire … thanks for putting up with us this year!
Siobhan Oelofsen

The Iris100 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Water polo

WATER POLO 2ND TEAM
Absent: Dominique Sfreddo, Jessica Speechly
Back Row (L-R): Leanne Holliday, Clarina du Preez, Valerie Hopf, Benita Boegman, Michelle Mills,
Alexia Oelofse, Kate Manson, Bernadette Fourie
Front Row (L-R): Glenda Hopf, Megan van Schoor, Ms L Austin, Diale Maepa, Claire Batchelor

WATER POLO U16A&B TEAM

Absent: Bianca Geere, Mandy Westwood, Bonita Lubbe
Back Row (L-R): Lauren King, Shereen Kennard, Mary Ann Nel, Kerry Bodenstein, Nicola Hayes, Dizelle Oberholzer
Middle Row (L-R): Lauren Wood, Lara Heilgendorff, Roxanne Kellerman, Zjuan Mann, Teresa Griessel, Shandré Fortuin
Front Row (L-R): Lisa Grunewald, Mrs C Daniels, Sam Steyn, Mrs M Brown, Leigh-Anne van Heerden

The Iris 101PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Water polo

WATER POLO U15A WATER POLO U15B

Absent: Mila Edwards, Amber Capra Absent: Amber Burnett
Back Row (L-R): Danaë du Plessis, Rochelle Kirstein, Megan Boegman, Kaylee Back Row (L-R): Luzaan de Beer, Maryna Jordaan, Deneel Lotz, Jade Twiname,
Higgins, Gabriela Malan, Stephi Ellington, Jade Janeke, Olivia Middleton Michelle Pienaar, Sarah Scrimgeour, Genevieve Edwards
Front Row (L-R): Suné Gerber, Nadja Barnard, Mrs J Knoetze, Kirstin Front Row (L-R): Cassandra Willers, Maureen Grobbelaar, Mrs J Knoetze,
Combrinck, Kelly Blair Kally Stückler, Sheena Ryder

WATER POLO U14A WATER POLO U14B

Absent: Inneke Sauerman, Danielle Wiggill Absent: Anke Kuhn, Jessica Clyde
Back Row (L-R): Kylann Robbertse, Nadine Boshoff, Nadéne Kotzé, Back Row (L-R): Genevieve Rauff, Klara Sebright, Marjoke Terblanche, Jeannine
Caroline Fourie Fourie, Liesje Stander
Front Row (L-R): Lisa Pickering, Heynieke Brits, Mrs K McConnell, Front Row (L-R): Jennifer Davis, Gabi Gioia, Mrs K McConnell, Skye Coutinho,
Jessica Aeroboe, Georgia Raffaut Liezel van Graan

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Cultural Highlights

Cultural Highlights

Luet Buys receiving the National 1st place from the Minister of
Education for the ‘Hands up for democracy’ competition

The Iris 103PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Music

Choirs

SENIOR CHOIR

Back Row (L-R): Rosie Blersch, Natalie Reid-Ross, Bronwyn Pieters, Cara Loubser, Roxanne Malan, Anré van der Westhuizen, Marelie Theron, Rorisang
Skhosana, Nokwazi Zimu, Jill Pieters, Helen Acres, Chanelle Harbour, Kendall Harbour, Ikanyeng Mothlamme
5th Row (L-R): Dominique Skeen, Stephanie Baek, Nicole Liebenberg, Tamaryn Pike, Molwazi Mjwara, Dionné Lutz
4th Row (L-R): Skye Pienaar, Katherine Humphries, Marissa Venter, Refentse Masha, Lauren Sackett, Tsenolo Ntsane, Candice Naudé, Amelia Potgieter,
Simthembile Nkwali, Ruthanne Harbour, Katherine Harding
3rd Row (L-R): Sarah Atkinson, Wilmarie Dippenaar, Mischa Muller, Banele Lukhele, Thuto Masilela, Nicole de Klerk, Caitlin Pike, Kayleigh Nienaber,
Nomhi Nhantsi, Zaheeda Tshankie, Mr M Barrett
2nd Row (L-R): Mr P Ferreira, Kelly Brookshaw, Chloé Cormack, Tutula Nhantsi, Simphiwe Shongwe, Catia Frazão, Melissa Pike, Cleo Floudiotis, Bonita
Lubbe, Michal Dahan, Siphesihle Ziqhu, Boitshoko Mochaki, Olebogeng Morolo
Front Row (L-R): Sung-Ha Choi, Claudia De Oliveira, Tshego Phele, Lebo Mahlare, Karabo Seate, Wandile Nkosi, Mannana Tshoagong, Mokgabo
Tshenkeng, Kgosigadi Moroeng, Shandukani Mulaudzi, Akhona Mafenuka, Tjedza Peba, Thandiwe Makhathini, Nicole Godfrey

Choir Lastly to the Choir Matrics
of 2007 … our time has
Being a member of the Choir has been an amazing come. For the past four
experience. years that we have been in
the choir we have watched
I joined the Choir not knowing all the wonders that lay as the matrics have packed
beneath. All I wanted was to get my four signatures but all their bags, somehow inside
that changed after a weekend away with the one and only hoping that our turn
Senior Choir of PHSG, when Mrs van der Sandt was still in would never come, but it
charge. I was part of a new family. We were given has … The sense of
opportunities to tour South Africa and, even better, THE belonging I have found in
WORLD! I can say that Mr Barrett, the Choir head, has had the Choir will always be a
numerous opportunities of laughing at us and not with us … part of me. Best wishes
(oops did I say that?) Joking (snigger). for the years to come.
Kgosigadi Moroeng
To my fellow committee members, we made a great team
even though some of you might think, “Ag, seriously Kgosi!”
To the Grade 9s, 10s and 11s enjoy the beginning of many
great years to come.

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Music

JUNIOR CHOIR

Back Row (L-R): Philile Mhlanga, Nolo Matubatuba, Klinka van Damme, Benedict Luposo, Thato Mahuma, Melanie Cope
3rd Row (L-R): Michelle Mlati, Rebecca Wise, Lethabo Motswaledi, Busi Ntisa, Netéske Horton, Emma Nurse, Rebaone Mmutle, Nokuthula Nzimande,
Didi Onwu, Mmakhotso Lamola
2nd Row (L-R): Jolandi Swanepoel, Rayann Moodley, Yentel le Roux, Masego Seboka, Lesedi Peu, Angelique Kossolapov, Ingrid Benadie, Danielle Millar,
Phindi Mogashane, Kelebogile Lebakeng, Sechaba Makhura, Mpho Biko, Neo Bontsi, Mr P Ferreira
Front Row (L-R): Boitumelo Masihlelo, Rachel Sola, Victoria Horne, Carla Classen, Naledi Gololo, Siyanda Mavuso, Kamogelo Maaka, Vuyo Matlebyane,
Leseho Moletsane, Miliswa Mdiziba, Nothando Mudzingwa, Tando Gqwede

UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA YOUTH CHOIR

Back Row: Sibongile Ndlela, Rosie Blersch, Natalie Reid-Ross
Front Row: Thando Sikhutswa, Tjedza Peba, Marissa Venter

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Music

Les Fées Qui Chante

LES FÉES QUI CHANTE

Back Row (L-R): Clementene Milton, Dominique Skeen, Natalie Reid-Ross, Tamaryn Pike, Nolwazi Mjwara
Middle Row (L-R): Banele Lukhele, Karabo Seate, Skye Pienaar, Catherine Humphries, Marissa Venter, Jodi Nagel
Front Row (L-R): Kgosigadi Moroeng, Rosie Blersch, Mrs B van der Sandt, Lebo Mahlare, Katherine Harding

Les Fées performances included performing alongside Prof van der
Sandt at the beautiful St Albans Cathedral, the church in
Ding, Dong, Ding, Dong! These are some of the words of a Stella Street, an old age home and finally at the Four Schools’
song that is near and dear to our hearts. The carol of the Bells Concert.
was one of the first songs sung by Les Feés 2007 at last year’s Touching people’s lives through music is our prime goal. We
Christmas concert.Every year is filled with challenges but this fairies have truly maintained a standard of which we can be
year they have been few and far between. The way we most proud. We have strived to be the best we can while still
overcame our challenges gave me faith in the group. The enjoying the music. This has been the best Les Feés year of
many activities, especially the Les Feés camp at the beginning my high school career and it is truly sad to see it come to an
of the year, was great fun and the spirit of our group became end.
apparent. The outing to Hatfield, where we shopped and Lastly, to our dear conductor, Mrs van der Sandt, we thank
shared stories, was enjoyable and brought us closer. you for the love that you have shown the group, the passion
As always we participated in the annual Beeld Eisteddfod. you exude and the way in which you were able to make the
After endless hours of note-bashing and hard work we were group an instrument. We appreciate all that you have done
able to showcase our repertoire and ended up winning the and wish you well as you leave PHSG for new challenges at
competition once more! We wonder if they will ever learn to Seuns Hoër.
spell our name correctly... Some of the many other Lebo Mahlare

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Music

Orchestra

ORCHESTRA

Absent: Kgosigadi Moroeng
Back Row (L-R): Joanie van der Heever, Shoki Maleka, Diana Mawoko, Kirstin de Beer, Tammy-Lynne Niemand, Nicole Liebenberg, Gabriela Malan,
Abby van Niekerk, Josephine Hamman, Jess Cameron, Megan Boegman, Mae du Toit, Daniella van Wyk, Clementine Milton
Middle Row (L-R): Miliswa Ndziba, Jenny Chen, Robyn Williams, Thato Mampane, Isabella Kao, Nicole Godfrey, Samantha Ferreira, Shanna-Leigh
Davidson, Anke Kuhn, Jana Kuhn, Sharon Wu, Liang Yu, Hannah-Marie Fobian, Kelly Blair
Front Row (L-R): Melanie Rutten, Lebo Mahlare, Marina de Freitas, Mrs V Hohls, Claire Batchelor, Mrs N van Wyk, Piette Cÿrus, Rosie Blersch, Sheree
Leong

Orchestra We have only received praise throughout the year. The success
of the orchestra and the dedication of the
This year proved to be an outstanding year for the orchestra. girls is due to the hard work, passion and
The quality of our performances and the increasing number enthusiasm exuded by our conductors
of talented individuals is an indication of the passion that we Mrs van Wyk and especially Mrs
girls have for music. The enlargement of the orchestra Hohls, who have spent many hours
enabled us to have a repertoire consisting of pieces from a helping us achieve these standards.
variety of periods and styles. It has been an honour to lead the
Our participation in the Kingsmead Festival was proof of orchestra, along with Kgosigadi
how hard everyone has worked to produce music of a high Moroeng, this year and I can
standard. This year the orchestra performed in the “Concert only hope that the
in the Garden” - a new take on the Sunday Morning Concert. orchestra continues
We were invited to perform in an assembly at Arcadia Primary to grow. Never
School and the pupils thoroughly enjoyed our performance forget that when
and were amazed at the variety of instruments. words fail, music
We also took part in a music festival held at Afrikaans Hoër speaks.
Seunskool and although the audience was small, we received Claire Batchelor
praise for the improvement of our sound quality and our
professionalism. This year, the annual Gala Concert was held The Iris 107PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
at Girls’ High and it was, again, an opportunity to perform for
the “Girls’ High Family”.

Music

WOODWIND ENSEMBLE

Back Row (L-R): Clementene Milton, Mae du Toit, Megan Boegman, Abby van Niekerk, Kirstin de Beer, Danielle van Wyk,
Shanna-Leigh Davidson
Front Row (L-R): Lebo Mahlare, Piette Cÿrus, Mrs N van Wyk, Rosie Blersch, Marina de Freitas

STRING ENSEMBLE SIMFONIA JUVENTI

Absent: Kgosigadi Moroeng Kirstin de Beer
Back Row (L-R): Liang Yu, Josephine Hamman, Sheree Leong
Front Row (L-R): Jess Cameron, Mrs V Hohls, Claire Batchelor

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Music

Rhythmony

RHYTHMONY

Back Row (L-R): Thuto Masihlelo, Tumi Monareng, Stephanie Baek, Thando Sikutshwe, Refilwe Mthimunye, Rorisang Skhosana, Tshegofatso Keebine,
Halaletse Diale, Blessing Ndebele, Lenah Bapela
Front Row (L-R): Mrs I Maas, Thando Nhlapo. Tshegofatso Phele, Mpumi Skosana, Siphesihle Ziqhu, Refilwe Sebothoma, Shandukani Mulaudzi,
Roelandi Smit, Tsenolo Ntsane, Tjedza Peba, Mr M Ndlovu

Rhythmony awarded second place and earned the respect of the audience
and judges because we were competing against choirs as large
Rhythmony experienced a very fulfilling Term Two and as sixty members whereas we were only fifteen. Although we
Three because of our achievements when we won the would have loved to come first and compete nationally, we
regionals for the National Eisteddfod. We were also invited believe that this is only the beginning of future greatness.
to sing at Laerskool Garsfontein’s Gala Evening as a Music will always be a profound forum for expression but for
congratulatory event for all the regional winners of the Rhythmony, music is the forum where we are heard and
competition. appreciated. For that, I want to thank the school for its
In Term Three we went to the Benoni School of Arts in support and give special thanks to Mrs Maas and Mr Ndlovu.
Johannesburg for the provisional qualifying round. We were Refilwe Sebothoma

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Clubs and Societies

HEADS OF CLUBS

Absent: Nicole Olwagen, Jessica Yasbek, Kasulwa Masondo
Back Row (L-R): Amanda Kandawire, Chanelle Harbour, Severn Williams, Teneil Taggart, Claire Batchelor, Kory Shukrani
Middle Row (L-R): Gamu Mutezo, Tebogo Monare, Diale Maepa, Musaba Kangulu, Nikita Lume, Gerda Tshimbombo
Front Row (L-R): Tshegofatso Moota, Nicole Godfrey, Cassandra Pringle, Katherine Harding, Brenda Skosana, Morgane Cailloux,
Lebo Mahlare

Amnesty International The Art Department Staff at this year’s Art Exhibition

What exactly is Amnesty International? As a Grade 9, I was Art
still trying to adjust to the ‘Girls’ High System’ yet somehow
Amnesty intrigued me. I walked into a room where I met such Wow! One could not have asked for a more rewarding and
intellectual ladies! They inspired me to know more about our privileged experience! To watch art come alive and grow the
world and the issues which we face. way it has at this school has been nothing less that amazing.
Our talented, committed and dynamic art group have
This year we have spent many afternoons discussing topics produced excellent work this year.
such as the situation in Zimbabwe, the antics of some of our
own politicians and the crime problem in our country and in
our own school. We were fortunate to attend an enlightening
and rather frightening lecture with the Debating Society on
human trafficking. We also spent some time examining the
issue of slavery and watched the moving film Amistad.

I am very proud of the Amnesty girls – each of them has
the amazing ability to have an opinion and that is so important
in the society in which we live today. Many thanks to Ms Cator
who has always taught us to think and to listen to others. I
would like to encourage other girls to join the Amnesty
International ranks; may the group grow and continue to
enrich the lives of all of all its members!
Musaba Kangulu

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Clubs and Societies

Judging from the amount of achievers (with even more to dedication this year, which should provide for an exciting and
come), no one can deny the bright future of art at PHSG! The fun-filled year next year.
highlights of our art calendar included the Seragona Arts Jessica Yasbek
Festival, Santam, “Hands up for democracy” National
Competition, the MTN, as well as our very own annual Art Chess
Exhibition.
Chess has had a very successful year this year as our girls,
Our thanks must go to all those who made is possible: firstly proved to be tough competition for all the schools that played
to Mrs Booysen, Mrs Greenberg and Ms Nel for putting up with against us (even the boys’ schools!). The girls worked very
us crazy artists and for all their hard work and commitment to hard all year to stay ahead and this paid off when we came
the subject we all love; secondly, to the girls themselves and to second in our division of League matches, as well as first at the
the wonderful art monitors for their service. May our passion All Girls’ Schools Festival at Eunice.
for art continue!
Kory Shukrani

BRIDGE CHESS

Absent: Anne Lin, Candy Wong, Else Muhl, Yolanda Teixeira, Faaiza Absent: Jiha Kim
Solomon, Michelle Francia Back Row (L-R): May Khine Kyaw, Fei-Fei Qi, Sophia Liu
Back Row (L-R): Amanda Naidoo, Tanja Schmid, Nicole Stafford, Jae Lim, Front Row (L-R): Anré van der Westhuizen, Cassandra Pringle,
Esther Li, Nicole Christie, Anré van der Westhuizen, Keneilwe Makwela, Eleanor Mrs S Labuschagne, Londiwe Mahlangu, Palesa Rammego
Harding, Shanna-Leigh Davidson, Glenda van der Westhuizen
Middle Row (L-R): Liang Yu, Ting-Ting Zhang, Michelle Franca, Chrissandra The social chess group has also been a pleasure to work with,
Naidoo, Shelley Nowosenetz, Stacey Egan, Mabel Anyimadu, Candice Botha, as their enthusiasm for learning how to play the game, has
Blessing Ndebele, Nicola Antioniadou, Sofie Zway renewed the spirit of chess in our school. Keep it up girls!
Front Row (L-R): Sonja Wronski, Carmyn Gast, Mrs J Cowan, Jessica Yasbek,
Mrs J Otto, Stephanie Naidoo, Lena Knudsen I would also like to commend Mrs Labuschagne for going to
so much extra effort to help us reach our best performance. We
Bridge really appreciate everything you did for us.

The game of Bridge starts with the shuffling and dealing of a For the team, I hope you have many more future successes
pack of cards, just as the year began with a classroom full of and I wish you the best of luck for the years ahead. Don’t ever
enthusiastic girls who arranged themselves, four to a table. back down from a challenge!
Cassandra Pringle
The bidding follows, which requires concentration, skill and
interpreting the subtle signals from your partner (although some Contact Club
girls unsuccessfully try to establish a psychic connection). The
beginners quickly got the idea of bridge through a simple game 2007 has been a truly remarkable year for the Contact Club. The
called Whist taught to them by Mrs Cowan. Mrs Otto assisted first term started enthusiastically with our planning for the year
the more advanced players. Mrs Pieters and Mrs Fourie from the ahead. There were some great ideas, but unfortunately some
Pretoria Bridge Club taught us the advanced rules of bridge. were not very practical. Many girls wanted to assist with some
of the organisations on a weekly basis but transport, school
Finally the actual play begins. We played three friendly activities and academic commitments made it very difficult.
matches against Boys’ High this year. In the Inter-high, Boys’
High managed to trump us and won once again, but Girls’ High It is truly wonderful to see and listen to the girls as they
was proud to achieve second place. discuss the social problems facing our country. Reaching out,
The girls have shown a lot of hard work, determination and visiting and helping, often with very basic requirements for

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Clubs and Societies

those in need, has really touched the hearts of many of the Where possible we tried to meet all the requests.
girls.One of our biggest responsibilities at school is the sorting There is a Chinese proverb that says “Time spent laughing
out of the jerseys, packing according to the needs of the
organisation and, where possible, delivering. is time with the gods.” This sums up the Contact Club in
2007. It was a privilege to be the bearer of that laughter. On
We returned to innocence when we visited the Mohau Centre behalf of all the members, a big thank you to Mrs Ronander
in Atteridgeville as we ran around and played games with the for not only making it possible, but also for making it special.
children. Valentine’s Day was a day of sharing and giving love
and no-one did it better than the super Contact Club members. I To the Contact Club
am confident that, after the wheelchair race for the annual Buddy members – my sisters – I
Day, the scholars of the Alma School will definitely agree. have been blessed and I
could not have done it
Abba House, where the girls can feed and test their skills at without your input and
pacifying babies, is always enjoyed. Something new, but enthusiasm.
definitely a great mix, was the inclusion of our SCA members on Tshegofatso Moota
a visit to the children’s cancer wards at the Kalefong Hospital.
The children there appreciated the teddy bears, Easter eggs and
juice we gave them. Some girls read and told them stories and
others took the patients outside to play. It was difficult for the
girls to leave the cancer wards and the silence in the bus on the
way home was a true indication of the impact of the visit and the
realisation of how blessed we are.

Sparrow’s Ministries in Johannesburg confirmed the rising
scale of the Aids pandemic and poverty in our country, but
impressed the girls with how much is being done and how care
can improve the quality of life of those who suffer from the
disease.

We visited the Phehella Day and Night Crèche in
Silverton twice, where the children are happy and well cared
for by an amazing woman, called Grace. The lesson we
learnt was never give a large group of children Jelly Tots and
juice on a hot day… but, I must say, it is their vibrant
energy and warm souls that keep us wanting
to go back.

We received several requests
for toiletries and food parcels
for destitute families and
havens for street children,
cakes for special
birthdays for pensioners
and donations for
flowers for funerals.

Dance that it will draw more and more members as the years go on.
Thanks to all those who have made it a special year.
Dance Club has been quite interesting this year. At the
beginning of the year we received a new dance instructor. Lebogang Moloisane
Following this were auditions, which separated the best from
the rest. Each session came with memorable and exciting Debating
moments as the energy-filled girls danced their hearts out and
then battled their way to the top at the end of the day. Both If it is to be believed that a leader is determined by the work that
Brenda and I enjoyed the sessions and had fun teaching the girls she puts in, the debaters of Pretoria High School for Girls are
how to ‘get down to the beat’. However, with great moments in certainly equipped to take over the world! 2007 has been a year
the first and second terms came challenges in the third term of immeasurable success for the Debating Society. We have
with the start of Drama Club, which tested the club as a whole. come to the end feeling more confident, if that’s possible, than
However, both Brenda and I have faith in the club and we know

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Clubs and Societies

we were to begin with. We delighted in having many friendly PHSG
debates with Boys’ High, winning every time. Even so, we came
DEBATING 1ST TEAM AND PUBLIC SPEAKING to love these debates and they were eagerly anticipated. We
entered St Peter’s Sport and Cultural Festival with enthusiasm
Back Row: Mashadi Mogase, Barbara-Anne van Wyk, Minette Cilliers, and won the senior section of the competition with only one
Jolandi Swanepoel, Tumi Ramafoko defeat. In addition, the junior team was placed second and the
Front Row: Humayra Garda, Mrs J Cÿrus (with Penny Bear), Senior Best Speaker of the tournament was Katherine Harding.
Katherine Harding Feeling like we couldn’t be happier, we were then chosen to
participate in the Provincial League. We were undefeated after
the first round and moved through to the second. Again, we
won all three debates. In the third round we faced some strong
competition, winning three of our five debates but we did not
break through. After three rounds, however, Katherine Harding
was ranked fifth and Tumi Ramafoko ranked twelfth in Gauteng.
We participated in the Model United Nations Debates of the
General Assembly and the Security Council, coming third in the
latter. Our countless trips to Johannesburg and the many ice-
creams from the traditional McDonald’s have inspired us to
achieve more than we thought was possible.

With the generous help of Mrs Cÿrus, the Debating Society
reached new heights this year and created memories that will last
forever. It is, fortunately, an inherent attribute of a debater that
she feels that the world is not enough and that this year, we
conquered it with 007-like precision.
Katherine Harding

Ecology

Wow, wow, wow! This year has gone by so fast it hurts! Why?
Well, with a group of enthusiastic nature-loving girls with so
many things to do and so many places to visit, time just seemed
to fly. We went to Mogale’s Gate, the Pretoria Botanical
Gardens, the Hartebeespoort Snake Park and the Cradle of
Humankind to name only a few activities. We were lucky enough
to stroke the beautiful cheetahs from the De Wildt Cheetah
Conservation Park and learn more about them.

Apart from our fun-filled outings, we also did weekly
recycling, watched videos, did presentations and played
environmentally-based games. 2007 has been a tough, but good
year, for all of us. May the Ecology Club continue blossoming.
Gamu Mutezo

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Clubs and Societies

First Aid In the Limelight

FIRST AID If it’s hard-hitting, factual journalism that you are looking for,
Pretoria High School for Girls is the place to find it. As the
Back Row (L-R): Josephine Hamman, Deidré du Toit, Chanelle Harbour, editor of this fine school publication, I encountered many girls
Joyce Lubuma, Janneke Hattingh, Aline Mwambakana, Funge Mulaudzi, who have the potential to make a successful career in
Megan Heath, Valerie Hopf journalism. Every issue was filled to the brim with newspaper
3rd Row (L-R): Marissa Venter, Stella Echelu, Shereen Kennard, Qaqamba articles written by girls with a passion for writing. I could not
Mgijima, Helena Pikirayi, Megan Steyn, Ralie Seymore, Akhona Gubevu, have asked for anything more. Yet, I was given more by every
Deborah Kabambe, Mary-Ann Gettliffe, Nolo Tjale, Keleigh-Ché Zukor girl as their articles were not only passionate, but interesting,
2nd Row (L-R): Lebo Sebolai, Keletso Modise, Meriza van den Berg, Nicole factual, funny and inspiring. Most importantly, every reporter
de Klerk, Eva Wu, Britney Powell, Leanne Holliday, Sinazo Tshayana, had fun. I allowed them to write articles that they would be
Mokgabo Tshenkeng, Caitlin Browne, Jenna Evans, Blessing Ndebele interested in reading and the resulting variety was valued highly.
Front Row (L-R): Keeley Reyneke, Rufaro Rusike, Lebogang Moloisane, Each edition contained a tantalizing mix of restaurant reviews,
Motladi Matatiele, Ms J Jardim, Tebogo Monare, Katiso Mogale, Alsa political analyses, cartoons, poetry and stories that were just
Abraham, Theodora Noyile fun. The students have never before responded to In the
Limelight as they did this year. Photos of girls were seen on
Term 1 started with the arrival of Ms Schwartz (our school every page and it added tremendously to the excitement of
nurse) making life much easier for us and we increased our flipping through the pages, especially when you saw your face
numbers after the Level 1 First Aid Course. The Grade 8 camp there. The quality of writing, which I received from girls,
proved to be quite a task for the first aiders, from pains, to inspired me and I am honoured that I gave everyone the
children faking injuries to avoid activities. Although the days opportunity to see how wonderfully talented these girls are.
sometimes seemed dark on occasions, the hope that we would The newspaper has become an asset to every girl and it has
be able to help an injured or distressed person in need always given some the opportunity to shine as talented writers.
put a smile on our faces. Katherine Harding
We knew Term 2 had started when the hockey girls came
running with their sticks! From sprains to strains, aches and Museum
pains, the hockey girls experienced it all! It proved to be a very
busy term with Saturday games always keeping us entertained This was another year of hard work for the Museum club. The
and putting our knowledge to the test. In Term 3 we improved Big White Cupboard still seems to have an endless supply of
our skills by completing the Level 2 and 3 Courses. photos and documents to be filed. The museum opened on
Open Day and quickly filled with visitors lured by the old
First Aid has truly been a wonderful experience and school uniforms put on show in the morning assembly amid
it has taught us a LOT of perseverance, patience many giggles. Matrics who had never seen the museum before,
and dedication. First Aiders we will always love had the perfect opportunity to grant their wish “to see the
you in sickness and in health, for better or museum before I leave the school”.
worse and 'til death do us part!' This year has been fun and interesting with new members and
Tebogo Monare lots of laughter and, of course … dust!
Gerda Tshimbombo

The Iris114 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Clubs and Societies

Peer Counselling photography and have started perfecting our own
techniques.
This year has been full of new experiences and challenges, Ms Nel, thank you so much for everything you have done
especially for the Grade 9 form counsellors. A lot more girls for us and the club. We wish you well in your new venture;
have needed our services this year and this has been a very you have really made a huge difference to us all and to
welcome change. We were also privileged enough to have an photography at Girls’ High.
afternoon session with Voula and Steph, who came to share Nicole Godfrey
their knowledge and life experiences with us and to help us
become better counsellors. To all of my wonderful fellow Pottery
counsellors, believe in your dreams and goals because you are
making a difference. This year the Pottery Club has been very productive and it
Amanda Kandawire has been a great success. The girls express their creativity
and emotions in their works of art. We hope to see more
Peer Tutor Programme new faces next year.
Teneil Taggart
Term One was extremely busy as everyone settled in and
adjusted to a higher level of understanding. Thanks to the The Iris 115PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
tutor programme, tutors were able to assist girls in different
areas and aspects of their work. The girls being tutored as well
as the tutors themselves, learnt something new. We also had
the pleasure of having Mrs Grover visit our school to train new
tutors. The girls learnt all about studying strategies and
teaching techniques which will undoubtedly improve the
programme. We gained many new eager tutors and on the
whole, the girls responded positively and co-operated fully.
Everything during the year seemed to run smoothly, with
credit due to all the tutors and Ms Turpin who held meetings
every Wednesday which included the TLC, the TLC Executive
as well as peer tutor meetings. The meetings were held to
ensure co-operation and a full understanding of the system.
Any problems were seen to by the respective head of the grade
and the TLC members – thank you for your hard work!
During Term Two we were inundated with girls applying for
tutors as the June exams were just around the corner. We also
decided that girls applying for tutors should only apply for a
maximum of two subjects as we have a limited number of
tutors. We urge more girls to become tutors as tutoring is
rewarding and fulfilling.
Nikita Lume

Photography

The Photography Club 2007 was filled with energetic, new
faces who were eager to expand their knowledge and share
their love for photography. The year, as always, was filled with
some disastrous, yet funny moments. We all learnt so much
and used techniques such as sandwiching and panning. We
also tried our hand at motion shots. At the moment we are
working on our own year work exhibition.

With great sadness we say farewell to an extremely special
person, Ms Nel. We will miss her smile and contagious
passion. She has been an inspiration to all of us, not only in
photography, but also with her positive outlook on life.
Through her, we have developed a deeper love for the art of

Clubs and Societies

PowerWalking Sculpture

‘I don't know but I've been told … if you don't walk you will get The Sculpture Club has been described by the girls who attend
old.' Fun, walking and laughter are just a few ingredients to it as a place where you can bear the fruits of your artistic talents.
make a dull day bright. Walking briskly through the beautiful oak This year the girls explored many media including: silk-
trees and past the variety of embassies soothed our stressed and screening, lino-cuts, dry-point etching, mosaics
tired bodies. The big group of power walkers and Mrs and painting among other things.
Campbell-Atkins always made every Monday afternoon very
enjoyable. At the end of every term, we would go to a park Every Thursday a fantastic mix of girls
down in Johnston Street, Arcadia and bury ourselves in food and attended and expressed themselves in a
laughter. Not only did we exercise and have fun, but this was relaxed and carefree environment. Luët
also an easy way to keep in shape and look good for the Buys won the, “Hands up for
Valentine's Ball and Matric Dance. I hope everyone enjoyed this democracy” competition.
year and is looking forward to next year! Congratulations also go to Luët and
Gamu Mutezo Robyn Ferguson who will be heading the
Sculpture Club next year.

None of this would be possible,
however, without the dedication of Mrs
Booysen. On behalf of all the girls, I would
like to thank her for giving up her time for
the enjoyment of the whole club.
All in all it was a wonderful year and I hope
that the club continues to inspire the girls
and act as a platform for their creativity!
Nicole Olwagen

Students’ Christian Association

Science SCA EXECUTIVE
Absent: Janice de Wet; Robyn Veary
The word “science” brings thoughts of dread and images if Back Row: Lebogang Moloisane, Ivannih Nel, Benita Boegman,
mini-Einsteins to the minds of many. This image is something Tammy-Lynne Niemand
that we at the Science Club are striving to change because science Front Row: Claudia Cunha, Mrs S Harbour, Chanelle Harbour
does not have to be a daunting undertaking. We embarked on a
journey of discovery: building volcanoes, making soft goo and The SCA has enjoyed an amazing year this year! The SCA runs
slime. This helped us to learn new phrases and terms for for three sessions on a Wednesday. The first session is known
everyday solutions, mixtures and chemical reactions. as the Chat Room where we discuss very relevant and real
issues which we are faced with in today’s world. It is a time
Learning about the laws of science and physics becomes a lot when girls can find answers and are not judged when asking
easier when it is done in a relaxed and less formal environment questions. In the second session, we sing praise songs and do
and we were given a chance to interact with other girls, both various activities according to the theme of the day. Special
younger and older than ourselves getting to share our
knowledge. The basic principles of science were brought to our
attention and this often cleared some cobwebs we might have
had during lessons.
We had great fun on the Grade 7 Open Day, displaying our
projects and getting the future Grade 8s excited about the
Science Club and other extra-curricular activities at the school.
The help and guidance of Mrs Mjadu and the Tuks students is
really appreciated. The Juniors’ spunk and enthusiasm was
infectious and it brought life to the lab every Tuesday afternoon!
Kasulwa Masondo

The Iris116 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Clubs and Societies

friendships between girls of all ages and backgrounds were staged great performances including on Open Day and at
formed here. We are very excited to say that in the third session the Spring Fair. Every time we performed, new energy was
we have introduced a Bible study where we work through the created and generated. Many thanks go to the Chinese and
books in the Bible. It is a deeper, more ‘nourishing’ time, for the Greek groups and to Missy van Heerden who helped us out
hearts of the girls and we always walk out with our hearts immensely.
blessed.
This year there was the introduction of a new dance
The highlights of the year were: the release of ‘The SCA group, African Dance, and the Gumboot Group took on a
Messenger’, a Christian magazine written by the committee, new direction.
aimed at equipping and encouraging young Christian girls in Great appreciation goes to the Executive members and to
their relationship with God; the Silver Ring Thing, a life altering my deputy, Vhudi, for motivating the dance groups
concert where girls and boys alike pledge to remain sexually constantly and for their commitment. To Mrs Dowlath and
abstinent until marriage and the main event on our calendar, the Mrs Mjadu, who kept us going throughout the rough
SCA Camp – ‘Survivor or Overcomer’? The camp was all about patches - thank you. Finally, to all the dedicated SICC ladies
meeting new people, staying up late and eating lots of food, who are what make the club, keep the fires of ubuntu
getting up really early, making the committee work really hard burning. May you grow into caring young women
and ultimately learning about the living God whom we serve embracing one another’s different and unique cultures.
and who loves us unconditionally. We also tried to emphasise Thanks to the SICC, we have found a place to form one
the point that Christianity is not a religion but a relationship movement, one unit, one culture and one club.
with Jesus Christ. Diale Maepa
To sum up, the SCA has grown tremendously from about ninety
girls last year to about one hundred and thirty girls. It has been Yoga
filled with exciting new challenges and experiences for the
committee and girls alike. The SCA has blossomed into a fun- Yoga this year has been phenomenal! With a regular group
filled, God-focused group where girls find God and themselves of girls attending classes, classes became more advanced
and are encouraged to develop strong Christian morals and throughout the three terms, with the girls learning new
values while developing a personal relationship with Him. I exercises and positions. We have even proceeded into
praise God for the amazing people-affecting opportunity I had practising the famous yoga headstand! With the girls’
of leading this committee and a special thank you goes to Mrs participation and enthusiasm, yoga has developed into not
Harbour for her love, care and for nurturing the SCA (and only a relaxing activity, but a fun sport.
committee) as well as being a role model to us all.
Chanelle Harbour Special thanks go to Ms Russell for her support and
expertise.
Student Inter-Cultural Club Morgane Cailloux

Wow, where does one start ? Hmmm … The Iris 117PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
SICC is a club representing diversity and individuality

through rhythmic movement and it is a club where we have
learnt that individuality is everywhere and
it is to be embraced and respected.

Heading this club was like
teaching an old dog new
tricks. We started off by
preparing, very intensely,
for the highly anticipated
annual SICC Fashion
Show in April 2007,
already in November the
year before. Thank you
to all the marvellous
models, exceptional
dancers and
enthusiastic sponsors
who contributed to the
success of the show.
Throughout the year, we

Viewpoint: English

Creative Writing

English

Spirit Confined now lie on the floor. Her body is wet with sweat although she is

chilled to the bone.

Green. She crosses the road and enters the premises. Walk The day has only just begun.

on the path: the prefects will be waiting. Her throat Anelia de Waal Grade 8

tightens; she forgot her name badge. She signs the defaulter

slip. Better order a new one. The lavender’s scent creates

Miss Widowthe illusion of tranquillity.

Grey. It’s cold: another winter’s day. The wind stings her

face and numbs her hands. She wraps her scarf tighter. I’m a black widow spider

“Thud-thud”, her shoes on the road. She hears laughter but With 8 hairy legs

no reason to rejoice. Her world spins and her mind is Who mates with her husband

clouded. It must be test day. And lays lots of eggs

White. The bell rings yet she does not

rush. She passes the main entrance. And when I’ve laid my eggs, my dear

Nameless, faceless people flooding in. You better stay away

There is tension in the air, does no one As the hourglass foretells

notice? Today is not my day

Red. Her eyes fall on the windowpane.

“If bricks bear memories, then I then proceed to eat my husband
windows must be able to see into one’s So he’ll trouble me no more
soul?” So watch out human beings
She sees a face; it smiles like a forgotten I’ll wait behind your door
dream with neither a beginning nor an

end; all it did was happen. She looks If you want to try get rid of me
around; was it for her? She looks back Don’t dare try the Doom
and the smile is gone. It has That stuff smells so bad
disappeared, engulfed by all the And I’ll hide away from the broom
unimportant ones. Numbers; math

first period. Claire Gritten Grade 12 Then I spin a brand new web
Black. She makes her way down the And plan my future too
hall. A million voices sounding in her I think I will have some more kids
head. The shadows cast pictures And name them, Annie, Betty and Stu
mockingly. She climbs the stairs as she

has done so many times before. Well farewell all my listeners
Blue. She reaches the top landing. Nearing her form class, This time has been so great
she appreciates the silence. This is the only time at school But I have to go away now
that she will get to be alone. Pigeons swoop low and peck at To find another mate
crumbs. The trees standing on their own look as though Melanie Cooper Grade 8
once upon a time they might have been gods flung to the

earth, and are now reaching towards the sky. A lonely fate

for disobeying orders. If only the leaders knew … if only

The Blurred Mantheyfelt,butno.
Bronze. She heads for the door knowing that her peace
would soon be broken the second she walks through the He strolls down the middle of a cobblestone street
door. She gently lays her fingertips on the cold handle and Making his way through rain, snow and sleet
turns. Her day flies past her eyes. Everything that she has He stands looking down from upon moss-covered boulders
felt and seen. She wakes up. Her covers have twisted and During night-time, he carries the moon on his shoulders

The Iris118 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

He twirls his hands and flies over the sea
Stopping to rest on the planet of Mercury
He stashes a star in his coat, where it burns a hole in his
pocket
He floats whimsically through space, smiling at astronauts in
a rocket
He dances on Jupiter’s sixty-three moons
And comes back to Earth before late afternoon

He strolls down the middle of a cobblestone street
Making his way through rain, snow and sleet
He stands looking down from upon moss-covered boulders
During night-time, he carries the moon on his shoulders

Claire Gritten Grade 12 He journeys the world, doing all the good he can
He is not a shadow, he is the Blurred Man
Trudie Spangenberg Grade 8

He wears a smart suit, his leather shoes gleam Effervesce
The bowler hat he wears encloses a dream
One hand grasps an umbrella, always furled When most people think of bubbles they think of magic and
Accompanied by secrets, he travels the world fairies and beautiful worlds. When I think of bubbles I think
of fun. The bubbles trigger my memory and a feeling of
His heart is good, his mind is pure contentment and joy. Sitting in the gardens of our school,
His future filled with destitution he has yet to endure which is usually a place of dusty books and cold corridors, I
He has a passport to travel the universe think of my brother and me, when we were very small, taking
He is a man of few words; his answers are terse the amazingly simple creation that is bubbles out into the
garden and having the time of our lives. I think of my aunt
“Spare a penny, sir?” asks the boy on the street and uncle’s wedding and how flowers were simply not
His clothes are torn and dirt obscures his face and feet enough and how we blew bubbles instead of throwing petals.
“Certainly,” the neat man replies I think of catch-a-bubble and running through the garden,
And summons sixpence from the skies hands in the air, in the hopes of catching the marvellous and
The man smiles, glad to pay this small fee colourful bits of magic that floated through it. Bubbles
To the Oliver Twist of the twenty-first century create a sense of magic, the sense that anything is possible. In
this second period English lesson my peers and I each
On the horizon’s edge he walks experience that feeling. We watch as the bubbles float
He stops for meals, but rarely talks through the air in a kaleidoscope of colours. Each ray of
He sleeps at odd hours under a leafy fig tree sunlight highlights a different colour, first blue and then a
He savours his life for few know what it is to be free fantastic mixture of gold and red. Around me is the chatter
of friends as they each come up with their own dreams and
He relies in thought to carry him west fantasies that the bubbles prompt. Bubbles land on our
For, although the sun sets, it does not end his quest faces, feeling like gentle raindrops on a cool summer’s day. I
He keeps moving forward, continues to persevere sit on the emerald-green grass and imagine a world of fairy
While spending time in Venice, he meets a gondolier rings and regal queens riding in beautiful carriages and magic
The wiry man sings with a voice like a nightingale and rainbows. The bubbles encourage the imagination and
As his song fills the air it makes the sky seem less pale turn a simple assignment into a mystical adventure.
Chloe Rushovich Grade 9
In Paris he meets an extraordinary baker
Whose baguettes make mouths water, whose eyes sparkle Paging through my photograph album
like nacre
She gives him a scone and a slice of apple pie The pages are fragile between my fingers. Like life, I think. I
And as the man eats it, he tries hard not to cry look at them without seeing them, but take my time over
For he will be gone by the first light of day them in a way that’s become systematic. Prolonging the time
And in the morning, he leaves amidst the snowflakes’ ballet before I reach the one of you. The memory stabs with a dull
pain.
He spends an hour or so on the streets of Peru, When I remember other things from two years ago, happens-
where, on a windowsill to-everyone-things, they never seem as far away or surreal.
He sees a potted plant – a bright yellow daffodil Your face takes up the whole page easily. Pictures of you in
It fills him with sorrow, for the flower is starting to wilt my head are fading. I’m forgetting the exact lines of your
Moving close to it, he hums a short lilt face. Your face can’t be as clear in my memory as on paper,
The plant’s leaves broaden, the flower petals swell
The man walks away for he feels all is well The Iris 119PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

but what it was like to be watched by those eyes is. I resign myself over and over as I waited to feel something, not able to
myself to my memories, going back to the very first day I believe … Believing hit later, when they lowered what had been
encountered them. the brightest light in the world into a dark hole in the ground. I
You were more there than anyone else in the room. Your was so angry I was terrifying myself. I wanted revenge on
difference offended other people. Not understanding why something so badly. I wanted something to fill my never-ending,
you didn’t need to be like them, they often felt that had to colossal empty hole.
defend who they were. Their defence was cruelty. You did At times I wanted never to have met you; to go back to what I had
not seem to notice them. You still disarmed them with your thought was happy. I was more furious at myself than the world
smile, showing them how ridiculous they were. I felt at those times. My head was full of new, dark, vindictive
nothing like them, drawn to you immediately, wanting to thoughts, the shock of which gave me a strange pleasure. There
catch you like you’d effortlessly caught me, like a kitten was nothing but the thought of you in my head every day,
wants to catch a butterfly. It seemed just as possible. nothing able to pull me away from it, I realised I still had you.
I was rushing down the corridor, forgetting to look in front The me I am is because of you and I feel you everywhere in it.
of me again, when I flew into you. Our books scattered Visiting you in my mind everyday with less and less anger, I can
over the floor. Mine in the plain, boring, brown paper my live again without having to forget. Your beauty is woven into
mother had selected, yours bright and different. Like pieces me forever
of you and pieces of me, there to remind me how different Carole Godfrey Grade 9
we were. I looked so shocked that you started to laugh. I
started to laugh too, and the laughter formed our friendship. A conversation with a page
I saw something different in your eyes then, thanking me. I
realised you needed acceptance as much as I did, you needed Looking at this blank page before me, I’m trying to understand
me too. And suddenly I didn’t feel so far away from you any feelings I have about it. At first, I have none. I think I should
anymore. try harder. Should I look at the page, feel it, taste it even? Staring
You taught me how much more there was to living. I learnt at the page, all I see is white. Blank, glaring at me, challenging me.
everything that was important. I became myself. “Come on,” it seems to say “write something. Write something
Then I learnt pain. Run over, I was told. A small, stupid, so interesting, write something funny, write something meaningful,
unnecessary death. Never a death for you. I told it to

Charon Bartosz Grade 12

The Iris120 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

Liesl le Roux Grade 12 Stella Leigh Kibuuka Grade 12

write something that will make people think. Can you do it, I sat in my big comfortable rocking chair and started
Sam? Can you? No? Thought not. All I ask is that you make rocking backwards and forwards as I waited for the kettle to
me worthwhile. Why can’t you? Because you can’t make finish boiling. My old chair was creaking and I couldn’t help
yourself worthwhile. You and I are just the same; white, but laugh to myself as I realised I sounded just like my old
useless and covered in your inane scribblings. I suspect I’m chair. I felt a soft, tickling sensation on my legs and peers
better than you, Ogle. I don’t change my mind continually, I down to see what it was. “You silly old cat, Tabitha!” I
can help people. And I don’t lie.” chuckled. She arched her back and purred. I wish I was as
“But I don’t lie!” I stammer in reply. “Well, not that much. flexible as Tabitha. She was young and could run around, as
Does it matter that I change my mind?” It never affects I no longer could.
people. And I can help people. I can! I mean I’ve helped – “ I stirred the raisins into the porridge and watched intently as
“Exactly,” says the page dismissively, “you can’t think of a it started to bubble. Porridge and Raisins were my
single person you’ve helped, can you? And I’ve counted six speciality and I made it with great enthusiasm because it was
treasons in your last pathetic statement. You lie in thinking for my very special granddaughters. Particularly Emily, my
that you can help people. You can’t. You lie to yourself and eldest daughter who absolutely loved it. I was very fond of
those around you in thinking you can. You lie in thinking you her and we had a very special bond.
can make me interesting. I’ve never lied.” Suddenly, I dropped the pot onto the floor. “Clang!” The
“But you do lie,” I cry. “You lied to ME! You tricked me into pot lay on the floor and its contents were spilled out all over
believing you’d help me create a good essay.” the tiles. My heart was thudding in my chest. I staggered
“No, Samantha,” says the page calmly, “I don’t offer false backwards and fell into the nearest chair. A tear fell slowly
hopes. I expect people to write on me and they expect the down my cheek. I sat there and realised that they weren’t
same. I am a good listener and that’s all I offer. I have no really there; they were at home in Africa. I was alone in that
false ideas about helping people but you do. Remember your big old house of mine and they were … gone.
brother? Remember how his mother left him and he looked Emily Millar Grade 10
to you – only YOU for solace? What did you do? Nothing.
Look at him now. LOOK AT HIM! He is still grieving his “Brace Yourselves”
mother’s abandonment but he won’t show it. Oh, no! You
could have saved him by letting him know you were a blank I think a book should be written on how to survive your
and couldn’t help him. But did you? DID YOU? No. teenage years and I think that the first chapter of said book
You’ve left him as a shell. He used to be so unlike you. He should cover the trials and tribulations of orthodontics.
was colourful, lively and imaginative. Now you’ve turned For those of you who need more enlightenment on this
him to nothing, a blank. Just like you. You’re all the same.” matter – braces. It’s a terrifying word: enough to make
“I can fix it – I can! Help me, how do I make it right?” I ask grown men weep, send families into hiding, cause birds and
the page but it stays silent as it is completely covered in my animals to migrate out of season, the sea to dry up and the
inane scribblings. sun to eclipse. Well, perhaps I’m over exaggerating but one
Sam Ogle Grade 9 thing is for sure – it’s enough to send any normal teenager
running for the hills – and I guarantee that there are millions
Gone out there who will agree with me.
This nightmare first began way back when I was in Grade 7
I stood bent over the kitchen sink and watched my knobbly and blissfully unaware that such a word as “orthodontics”
hands turn the tap on. Water gushed out and soon the kettle even existed. A mother of one of my friends (she was an
was filled with icy cold water. I slowly lifted my head upwards orthodontist’s assistant) had informed my mother that I
and was sure I heard my old bones creak as I looked out of was in desperate need of braces as I had a small mouth and
the window. It was mid-December and the first signs of too many large teeth. So if there’s anyone to blame it’s her –
snowfall started to appear. My granddaughters would be although my mother often says I should hold my father
thrilled. They were visiting me from Africa for Christmas accountable: “He’s the one with the big teeth!” Anyway,
and the climate-change was proving to be difficult for them. within a few days I found my mouth and all related
I hoped they would be getting out of bed soon as I was components being prodded and poked at by my new
treating them to a real English breakfast. orthodontist who then proceeded to inform my parents

The Iris 121PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

that my teeth were likely to be fitted with all Liesl le Roux Grade 12
sorts of terrifying things (most of which I
can’t pronounce), including head brace. It trench war-zone. The brace blocks leave permanent
was at this stage that I began to question indentations and over and overlooked excess wires slash my
whether perhaps a higher entity had a grudge gums to ribbons. Just the other day I was subject to an
against me. By some stroke of good luck (or, excruciating sessions with my orthodontist who was (with
at least, that’s what I thought it was back considerable force) trying to force and overly thick wire into
then) my orthodontist deemed it necessary the brace blocks and, needless to say, I was unable to talk or
for me to be fitted with a head brace and he eat properly for the next few days.
prescribed a “palette expander”, a relatively An interesting observation I’ve made over the years is that the
harmless sounding contraption but it would popular children always seemed to have perfect teeth and
later drive me to the borders of insanity. never need orthodontic treatment or that they were subjected
According to my orthodontist, a palette to less than a year of braces (and often it wasn’t even braces, it
expander would expand my palette. Funnily was a simple or retainer). I have resignedly accepted this as
enough I figured that much out for myself. some sort of cosmic principle and left it at that. I maintain
What he didn’t get round to telling me until though that some sort of guide should be written for those
much later was that my palette was widened deemed to suffer at the wires of their braces so that they may
(slowly and agonizingly) until it would be able to come out on the other end sane and (with a bit of
eventually be torn in two and ultimately be luck) the owner of a stunning smile that was certainly worth
rendered wide enough for him to begin the trauma. I still live in hope that I may yet come to see the
working on straightening my teeth. day when my teeth have been set free of their shackles and
I cannot remember exactly how long it took manacles and I can chew toffee and munch biltong to my
for this episode to conclude, but it seemed to heart’s content. One thing’s for certain though: the guide to
last for ever (as most people who have surviving orthodontics should be called “Brace Yourselves”.
endured such ordeals will tell you), but when Catherine Rogers Grade 11
it was over my orthodontist fitted a type of
retainer across my torn palette to prevent it
from collapsing – oh goody. This was only
the beginning, however.
Railway tracks (as my father often jokingly
said and I very often did not laugh at) were
fitted to my teeth about half-way through
Grade 8. My friends frequently reassured
me that they’d be off by the end of Grade 9
and I’d be wondering why I’d kicked up such
a fuss about them. A few months later I was
told by my orthodontist to go and visit a
“maxillo facial surgeon”. I had no idea who
in the universe that could be and so prepared
myself for the very worst – and got it. According to this
surgeon, one side of my bottom jaw was growing faster
than the other and would cause my jaws to be
asymmetrical and that it was highly likely that I would
need an operation in which a piece of my bottom jaw
would be cut off in order to get my jaws to align. So for a
few months my parents paid huge sums of money for
fancy x-rays to be taken to assess the “damage”. It
transpired, in the end, that the situation wasn’t that bad
and that an operation would be unnecessary. I was so
thankful I almost did a rain dance but stopped myself
after remembering that I still had to wear braces for an
undecided period of time.
I soon reached Grade 10 and felt quite despondent as I
viewed the future stretching bleak ahead to many never-
ending days with metal glued onto my teeth. My parents
must’ve taken pity on me because they decided to get me
fitted with the latest and greatest – “Speed Braces” –
despite the extra cost. These, as the name indicates,
supposedly get the job done more quickly and I was
assured I would be brace-free by mid-year Grade 11.
Well, mid-year Grade 11 has come and gone and I am still
wearing braces and my mouth is now somewhat akin to a

The Iris122 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

O Negative

My luscious blood was leaking out onto the pavement, it kept Liesl le Roux Grade 12
flowing forward like a tenacious little red stream, swallowing
the cracks and creases in the concrete as it meandered along. during these exhilarating night-time brawls. I turned to face
"You 'ad enuff yet?!" him, my giggling was dying down now, reduced to a few
His grimy mug was scrunched up and fierce looking, all his sporadic chuckles. “Nonsense, it’s part of the experience.” I
features seemed to converge in the centre of his face as if said, pulling up my tongue to lap up some coagulated blood that
there was a vacuum at his nose, sucking it all in. "Certainly had settled on my upper lip. “The whole point is to provoke
not." I wheezed. His nostrils flared, and long tendrils of saliva these ruffians and hopefully get a good beating. “He gave me a
began oozing between his cigarette-stained teeth. He lunged demeaning glare but it was difficult to take his watery grey eyes
forward, planting a solid boot between my ribs. A splintering seriously. “It’ll be the death of you, Henry.” “Perhaps,” I said
crack rippled across my torso. The feeling gave me goose while my lips parted into a grin, revealing neat, blood laminated
bumps, my exposed arms looked like a freshly plucked chicken rows of teeth, “But what a spectacular death it will be.”
and I revelled in the knowledge that at least two of my left ribs Nena Maree Grade 11
were broken and one was undeniably cracked.
"You want me to kick you some more!" he screamed, The Worst Part is the Wait
catapulting more putrid saliva into the atmosphere.
"Oh yes, yes please!" I pleaded. His already narrow eyes As I enter the dentist's waiting room, I feel a sharp pang in the
became thick black slits and looked like little ebony rice grains pit of my stomach. The heavy wooden door swings closed
against his bullish head. behind me, and I stand still for a moment so that my eyes can
"What did you say?" The words squeezed between his teeth. I adjust to the dim light inside.
suppose that was a rhetorical question because he plunged I carefully take a seat in one of the hard, uncomfortable metal
another muck coated shoe into my gut before I could answer. chairs and I am very aware of everyone watching me. Directly
It was a nice sturdy punt that constricted my breathing. I opposite me sits a girl with a wild bush of frizzy brown hair and
started to laugh. How could I stop myself ? Tiny droplets of a face so full of freckles that she looks almost tanned. She
scarlet tinged spit popped from my mouth as I began to gargle smiles at me to reveal glinting braces over incredibly skew teeth,
with delight. He started kicking harder and faster with a manic like an exceptionally curvy train track. I am glad my teeth are
fury, spurred on by my infantile giggles. not like that!
When he was done I was certain that not one of my ribs was A steady ticking sound in my ear causes me to look up at the
intact and that my left wrist as well as my radius were most clock, perched on the dull white wall. It shows that there are still
definitely cracked or even broken. Oh heaven, oh glorious twenty minutes until my appointment. I sigh and lean back in
bliss, all those miniscule bits of bone scattered around my my hard chair. My back is becoming stiff.
spongy lungs and my sturdy little forearm snapped like a
pathetic twig. This evening was panning out quite well and I The Iris 123PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
even dared to hope for some internal bleeding or perhaps a
punctured lung.
"Wewl?!" he boomed, in his thick London accent. I tried to ask
for a few punches to the face but instead I just coughed up
phlegmy clots of blood; the mucusy strands of saliva
stretched to the ground as I hoisted myself on all fours. My
pudgy assailant spread his greasy fingers between my hair and
ripped up my head with a forceful jerk. What happened next
was almost too good to be true. He pulled back his chubby
arm and suddenly let it spring forward, a pair of white-strained
knuckles bludgeoned my nose, I could feel the cartilage bend
and snap under his powerful fist. And then, Oh and then came
my glorious 0 negative; flowing from my twisted nose,
dribbling across my mouth and chin, streaming down my neck
and pooling at my collar bone before soaking into my shirt
collar and saturating my starchy garment with its beautiful
scarlet colour. My vision was somewhat blurred after that, but
I heard his footsteps trail away into what was left of the night.
I lay on my back for a while, enjoying my biological pain killers
kick in, and allowing myself the pleasure of examining the
various gashes, bruises and lumps that were dappled across my
body. I stood up, slowly and uneasily, laughing and smiling. “If
you’re not going to give up this ridiculous activity, at least try
not to make them so angry." The voice of Dr Carnegie crept
over my back. He was my personal physician, always lurking in
nearby shadows, keeping a watchful eye on me and always
ready to tend to any serious wounds I may have sustained

Viewpoint: English

My eyes now travel to the small coffee table in he centre of the Claire Gritten Grade 12
room. It snowed under by a mountain of old, outdated
magazines, the majority of which are torn. I can see that most And let me live mine,
of the magazines are sports magazines, and my attention That is what I am good at.
drifts to the only painting in the room. It is situated behind the Don’t say yes on my behalf,
secretary's desk. It is a very dull landscape painting of the sea, Don’t say no either.
and lacks any life and vitality. I do not particularly like it. I can answer that myself.
The awkward silence in the room is suddenly broken by the I may be me,
shrieking cry of a small toddler who has messed water from But that’s who I want to be!
the water dispenser. A stressed-looking mother rushes over to Don’t tell what I want
the child and desperately tries to quieten her. Her cheeks are Or when I want it.
burning a brilliant red which clashes amazingly with her vivid, I’ll have what I want
carrot-coloured hair. And I’ll have it when I want.
Behind me is a small round fish bowl containing three tiny You can’t make up my mind for me,
goldfish. The water is pale blue, and even the fish themselves You can’t live my life,
seem bored. Like everything else in the room, it lacks all Make up your own mind,
liveliness. Live your own life.
Suddenly a door across the room opens and a tall young man You are you,
exits from it, a pained expression on his face. He walks briskly And I am me.
to the other side of the room and out of the big wooden door, That is who you are,
as though he cannot leave quickly enough. The secretary And this is who I am —
opens a book, consults it for a moment, then looks up, directly I am me.
into my eyes. Catherine Buys Grade 11
"Miss Oates, Doctor will see you now." I walk slowly to the
small door across the room. It looms up at me, as though it is Learning to Drive
daring me to enter. I shake my head to rid myself of these
ridiculous thoughts, take a deep breath, twist the doorknob, I picture myself cruising effortlessly along the German
and enter. autobahn, rolling gracefully through the English countryside
Aimee Oates Grade 11 and weaving through the streets of Monaco with 007-like
precision in my sporty, stylish car. I picture myself simply
My Voice driving for the pure pleasure of it. My driving experiences,
however, are slightly less glamorous.
My inner voice comes from deep inside
it’s influenced by two different keys
One is who I honestly am
The other, what the world wants me to be
Sometimes I’m torn between voices
Sometimes I’m who I truly believe
Slowly I’m learning and changing
My eyes are beginning to open and see
No longer blindly following
No longer willing to pay the fee.
I’m beginning to stop being someone else
And starting to become just me.
Keisha Moeti Grade 11

I am me

That is who you are,
And this is who I am.
I have been told to do this,
I have been told to do that.
That is not what I want to do,
That is not what I want.
Don’t make up my mind for me,
Don’t tell me what to do,
I have my own mind
And I do have my rights.
Live your own life,
That is what you are good at,

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Viewpoint: English

“It’s all about clutch control,” my mother warns me as I am It’s one of the worst feelings in the world; telling someone how
on the brink of pulling out of our driveway. ‘Clutch control you feel. Those who say it’s empowering, noble, wonderful …
can go to blazes,’ I think as I roll my eyes. Honestly, clutch well, they’re just flat out lying.
control wouldn’t even be a problem if we all just drove Because at some stage during this “empowering” process, you’re
automatic cars! As I roll my eyes I spot a particularly fine going to have to let your guard down and stand there, completely
member of the male species. He’s obviously checking me alone, naked and vulnerable, with your rapidly beating heart
out with my wheels. But wait! What’s that look on his face? completely unprotected, hold it out to the person you’ve secretly
Oh, no! He spotted my loser … I mean learner’s sign stuck come to care for so deeply that you’re willing to go through this
on the back window! As he walks by, I stare dejectedly back torturous process for them, and pray that they feel the same.
at the steering wheel. So much for that. And if he does …
While driving in the possession of a learner’s licence, it is Well, it’s in that moment that you learn how to fly. It’s I that
necessary to have a calm, level-headed, legal licence holder moment that you feel that it was all worth it – the agony; the pain;
with you in the car. My parents, on the other hand, are the
complete antithesis of this regulation. They say I’m over- Bonita Lubbe Grade 10
reacting, but they totally fall to pieces when I get behind the
wheel. My father desires nothing more than to jump out of the uncertainty – because after seeing you so naked and
the window whilst my mother, if she were feline, would have vulnerable, he took you into his arms and comforted every bare
her claws deeply embedded into the upholstered roof! My part of you, becoming a new shield; a new reassurance; a new
older brother, who is slightly more calm, panics at every stop place to store your rapidly beating heart.
street, robot, yield sign, parking lot, keep-left arrow and But if he doesn’t …
pedestrian crossing … even when there are no pedestrians! The rushing sound in your ears becomes deafening; your throat
Well, at least they are trying to teach me how to drive. constricts; the spinning becomes out of control; your exposed
After the shameful driveway incident, I finally got onto the heart feels as if it’s going to stop beating and never be whole
road which was mercifully quiet. That is to say, nobody again; the velocity at which you’re falling becomes unbearable
heard my screechy pull away and my insistent cries that I was, and all the while you’re thinking:
in fact, well within the speed limit. So, after apologising to Why the hell did I jump?
my parents, the car and a very distressed-looking pigeon, I Liesl le Roux Grade 12
was on my way. I must say, I have made some progress with
my driving over the past few weeks. I mean, I don’t even run The Iris 125PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
red robots anymore! My parents say it’s an encouraging sign.
But yes, it has become much better: I can pull away
smoothly, I can shift gears with ease, my parents are less
jumpy and I suffer less from stress-related neck spasms. My
parents have even granted me permission to drive with the
radio on! A sure-fire good sign.
Granted, learning to drive has been a harrowing experience
(more so for the responsible licence-holder next to me than
myself, I believe). I am grateful for my parents’ training – I
have learnt so much from them. I also apologise profusely
for any premature grey hairs that may have cropped up. Just
know that it is for the greater good. Thanks, folks!
Liz-Marie Bolink Grade 12

Free Falling

It’s one of the worst feelings in the world: free falling. It
literally feels as if someone is trying to rip your soul out of
your stomach, and all the while you’re spinning out of
control, plummeting downwards faster and faster and faster,
wind ringing in your ears; blood rushing to your head;
mouth dry and an inescapable feeling of dread takes over …
Now this is the same feeling, except instead of just the
excruciating free falling sensation, it feels like you’re naked
as well. Bare. Exposed. As if you’ve laid down all the
protective armour which has always kept you safe: been a
comfort for so long; a security and reassurance; and stood
completely naked on the edge of a bottomless cliff and lust
…

Fell.

Viewpoint: English

Bone Tarot Her breath comes out in a puff of condensation in the icy
winters-night air. She is still going to be late, despite her
The old woman sits hunched over, a motley bundle of relentless pace. Maybe, just maybe, she will be on time if she
woven cloths, feathers and charms, swaying back and forth cuts through the Park.
fitfully to her moaning, unearthly chant. Her eyes roll back The old sangoma’s chant rises to a keening wail. That black
in a trance, eyes with whites the colour of the bones she is wintry stream is pierced by shafts of silver moonlight. And
rattling in her gnarled hands. in the light of that vision-moon the old woman sees a skull,
Christine glares at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. lurking like an ancient curse under the bridge. She sees the
The harsh fluorescent lighting, reflected infinitely on the skull, with dart orifices like the dots on dice. She sees the
arctic white tiles, picks out the premature crow's feet side of the feminine skull crushed by a savage blow, and a
around her nicotine-stained eyes and thin lips. She strains trickle of blood twisting like a crimson ribbon from one of
to pluck out the last stray hair from already pencil-thin the unseeing eye sockets.
brows, her third cup of caffeine-fix balanced precariously The relentless clicking of Christine's heels is muffled by the
on the edge of the basin. She glances at her watch and mud and grass as she starts walking trough the deserted
park, her mind so full of worries that the sound of her

Barbara-Anne van Wyk Grade 12 Liesl le Roux Grade 12

curses fluently. She's late. thoughts coursing through her skull drowns out the
The witch-woman's keening chant pierces the quiet sunset, expectant shuffle of heavy boots in the mulch on the other
as she appeals to the ancestors for Sight. The old bones side of the river. If she could just cross that bridge, she
rattling in her hands, bestowed with ancestral power, hold would certainly be on time for her meeting. She increases
the key to rain and droughts, births and deaths, plenty or her pace as she sees the dark silent stream and the bridge
suffering. Her earthy, wizened face creases even more as a that it goes under.
dark vision enters her mind: this vision is strange to her. The old woman throws her head back in the throes of
Click-click-click Christine's expensive black heels rush vision and trance and cries a long, banshee-like peal of
along the pavement to her all¬ important business terror.
meeting. Christine shrieks and nearly trips, as a clammy newspaper is
Click-click-click go the fateful bones in the earth-mother's blown against her legs by an unearthly, howling wind.
hands. Her body trembles and her hands shake as the The old woman pitches forward and casts the bones.
vision forms in her mind: A dark icy river flows between Filled with icy foreboding, Christine looks at the bridge,
trees, under a deserted bridge. Something glimmers just turns around and walks ~ the way she came.
under the pitchy surface. The old woman looks at the bones, looks to her client and
Christine pulls her designer coat tighter around her body. predicts fair weather and baby boy.

The Iris126 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

Liesl le Roux Grade 12 Charon Bartosz Grade 12

PorscheMarita de Waal Grade 12 Go forth.
The underworld,
Your shining Headlights full your palace
of the intelligence and cunning that is your purpose. Awaits.
Your VB powerful thrust Cassandra Pringle Grade 12
boasting agility and
specially tuned finishings of R.I.P… [L.v.N][A.O]
camouflage and fur.
Your breath of silk The warmth of the sun
and deadly grill plummets into black.
hints of your stage in evolution. Shining stars piercing the ever-lasting night sky
Your strategies, fade away …
leaving all the competition behind in your tracks. Your A door to the final chapter
unpredictability closes.
pulling at the webby strands between life and death ... The last notes play
and yet the danger and thrills you pose makes you all the a rhapsody of emotions
more desirable.
But you, my glorious, callous, captivating, cunning Queen, Disillusion and confusion entangle me
you are Mistress of the deep dark underworld, Grief grows steadily
who tricks her prey and opponents alike and tears of sorrow drip into my weeping heart
through hypnosis Numbness grips and strangles
and traps I slip into an ocean, deep with a myriad of memories
and greed of you …
and spite.
Tiny, tiny Porsche, with your eight legs Shining silver clouds
and sparkling, innocent eyes and poisonous fangs of deceit, make way for
you are able to trick those foolish giants (a hundred times brighter days
larger than yourself) into worshipping you.

The Iris 127PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: English

Bonita Lubbe Grade 10

It’s a new beginning, filled with lower
acceptance and hope. My head spins
Mind wandering into space like wisps of smoke
The warmth creeps back, A tingling sensation washes over me pleasantly
stars shine on, Stars before my eyes twinkle brighter
an open door I don’t struggle as I sink further into the nothingness
reveals the path of the abyss
of life and just go
Nicole Olwagen Grade 12 with the force that
surrounds
Untitled me; submerging me
over taking me over
As I choke on the salty water of the ocean, over
Waves of realisation immerse me Nicole Olwagen Grade 12
The undertow pulls at my weakening body, and I
d
e
s

c
e
n
d

s

The Iris128 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: Afrikaans

Afrikaans

Dink aan ‘n mens wat ernstig, stil, alleen en wêrelds is. My ma is baie grootmoedig, maar moet haar net nie vra om
Visualiseer iemand wat harmonie en takt waardeer en dit … dinge aan die skool te skenk nie. By verlede jaar se
is nie my ma nie! My ma, Magdalena van der Merwe, is lentekermis wou sy ‘n blikke tuna vir die tombola skenk! Só is
lewendig, vrolik, snaaks en vol pret. Sy het baie energie en sê dit met my ma en kos. Sy sal ‘n vis en
wat sy voel. Sy het ‘n stoute streek in haar en sy waardeer die grondboontjiebottertoe-broodjie daar sit en eet terwyl die
natuur. Ma is ‘n regte boeremeisie en het op ‘n plot in gevriesde hoender op die dak lê en ontdooi.
Bloemfontein grootgeword. Ma is baie uniek, maar sonder haar sou die lewe eentonig
Ek’s seker my ma het haar rybewys uit ‘n gelukspakkie gekry. gewees het.
Elke oggend terwyl sy in haar pienk pajamas met haar Michelle Vlok Graad 12
leeuhare en wilde groen oë in die kar sit, maak jy jou gordel
vas! Net-nou is al jou tande uitgeslaan omdat ma te vinnig Die droomlandskap lyk onstabiel, so asof die bietjie wat ek
gerem het of omdat sy die stuurwiel vir vyf minute gelos het! van die getande horison deur die mis kan sien, rondwip en
Min mense is braaf genoeg om saam met Ma inkopies te ruk. Skielik gly ek op die glibberige vulkaniese as teen die
gaan doen. Elke produk moet bestudeer word en as dit een ongelyke afdraende en ek sny my hand op een van die gitswart
sent meer is as wat dit in die advertensie geadverteer is, kom skerwe klip soos wat ek probeer keer dat ek val. Ek is
jy nooit uit die winkel nie. Ma hou daarvan om met die briesend kwaad. Die polsende pyn in my hand en gewrig
bestuurder oor pryse te stry. maak my net nog kwater en die wolke in die lug kook saam
met my eie woede.
Charon Bartosz Grade 12
Ek word wakker met die reuk van verkoolde roosterbrood en
die klank van my neulende wekker. Die oomblik toe ek die
drukker dooddruk, word die geluid van my ouers wat in die
kombuis stry, hoorbaar. Ek druk my iPod in my ore sodat ek
nie weer dieselfde ou drama hoef te hoor nie. Ek maak vinnig
klaar en toe ek voordeur toe hardloop om die bus skool toe te
haal, sien ek my ouers stry nog steeds. Hulle staan aan die
teenoorgestelde kante van die kombuis, maar hulle
flikkerende skaduwees teen die muur lyk soos ‘n Minotaurus
en ‘n griffioen wat in ‘n gruwelike geveg is.
My dag gaan feitlik by my verby in ‘n dowwe warreling van
waanbeelde en wiskunde op swartborde en ‘n gesuis van
mensestemme.
Teen die tyd toe ek by die huis kom, is ek so gedreineer dat
selfs my week-lange-toorn oor my ouers se egskeiding
afgeskaal is na die dowwe, polsende pyn van depressie.

Daai aand droom ek van ‘n onheilspellende doolhof waarin
ek hopeloos verdwaal is. Hoe meer ek probeer uitkom, hoe
meer voel dit asof ek verstrengel word in die eng,
kronkelende paadjies. Die rankende plante het ‘n wil van hul
eie, en verander hulle posisies na willekeur sodat die bruin-
groen pad soos ‘n vet koperslang, met my op sy rug, al hoe
meer na die middel van die labirint seil, terwyl die takkies van

The Iris 129PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: Afrikaans

die rankplante soos die hare van miljoene klein Medusas
krioel.
Ek stap onwillekeurig dieper in die doolhof in terwyl die
dowwe pyn van depressie, soos ‘n skoen wat styf sit, my
omhul. Telkemale sien ek skrams nimfe in een van die
afdraai-paadjies, met sekelmane op hulle voorkoppe
getatoeëer, wat in wilde sirkels om ‘n fontein dans; of
boomgeeste met skerp gesiggies in blare vermom wat deur
die plantegroei vir my loer.
Skielik word die pad wyer, en ‘n ronde opening word
sigbaar. Daar is ‘n pynlike helder vlam, en binne ‘n bal vuur
word ‘n beeldskone, lewende voël stadig veras terwyl die
voël spookagtig sing. Ek gly en hardloop vorentoe om die
arme dier te help, maar ek is te laat: die vuur het uitgebrand
en die voël is weg, al wat oorbly, is ‘n hoop as.
Huilend stap ek na die hoop om oor die merk-waardige
voël te ween……. Toe sien ek hoe ‘n lomp, pienk,
onbeholpe feniks-kuikentjie bo-op die as sit en piep.
Ek tel hom op en sit hom onder my baadjie en sy warm lyfie
smelt die blok ys in my hart.
Marita de Waal Graad 12

Dit is verkeerd om sneeuluiperde te jag Sarah Atkinson Grade 11

Ek stem saam dat dit verkeerd is om Sneeu-luiperde te jag. Jammer, Skat, maar jy het jou kans gemis!
Hoe kan enige iemand so ‘n mooi dier doodmaak - net om Ek sit nie in die hoek en pruil
iets luuks te kan dra! Jy het my verloor, so jy’s die een wat huil.
Sneeuluiperde is pragtige diere. Hulle word gejag vir hul Mashadi Mogase Graad 9
pels - dit is vaalgrys met swart rosette en ‘n swart streep oor
die rug. Hulle woon in die berge in Sentraal Asië en bly op Bo, in my gedagtes is my kêrel
hoogtes van 2700 meter tot 6000 meter. Los hom alleen, hy’s my wêreld
Die Sneeuluiperde is ‘n bedreigde spesie en word Oor alles kan ons regkom
genadeloos deur jagters uitgewis vir hul eie gewin. Ek stem Maar, ek kan nie sonder hom
saam dat dit verkeerd is, want wie gee vir ons die reg om ‘n Merissa Dunbar Graad 9
hele spesie uit te wis? Of om oor lewe en dood te besluit?
Hoekom moet ons ‘n bedreiging vir hierdie pragtige diere Ek is lief vir jou
wees oor ons eie selfsugtige begeertes, as daar klaar nie Dit is die regte tyd om te trou
meer baie van hulle oor is nie? Hulle teel nie vinnig aan nie: Maak my net jou vrou
daar is gewoonlik net twee tot drie welpies in ‘n werpsel. Ek sal jou gelukkig maak
Hulle is meestal nagdiere en bly so hoog dat hulle nie regtig en ook laat lag
vir mense ‘n bedreiging is nie, dit is dus ook nie ‘n rede om Ek is lief vir jou
hulle dood te maak nie. Diane Mathibe Graad 9
Aan die begin het God vir die mens gesê dat hy oor die diere
moet heers, bedoelende dat ons na hulle moet omsien. Ons
moet saam staan en red wat nog te redde is. Ons kan nie
toelaat dat meer van ons pragtige diere uitsterf nie. Die
mens is veronderstel om die mees intelligente spesie te
wees, maar wat sê dit vir ons as ons diere vir eie gewin
uitwis, sonder om aan die gevolge te dink? As ons nie
dadelik inspring nie, sal ons kinders eendag nooit ‘n
Sneeuluiperd kan sien nie.
Sherilyn Roelofse Graad 9

Ek het gedink ek was lief vir jou Ek hardloop. Op ‘n manier hardloop ek al vandat my familie
Dat ons eindelik eendag sou trou oorlede is. My longe brand, maar ek stop nie. Ek struikel oor
Maar nou het ons liefde verdwyn rotse en die harde sneeu kraak onder my voete, maar steeds hou
Daar is reën waar die son skyn ek nie op nie, want dan sal hy my inhaal … Ekskuus, ek laat alles
Liefde? Jy weet nie wat dit is nou baie abstrak klink. Laat ek van die begin af my verhaal vertel.
My naam is Lelje van Loggenberg en ek bly al vier jaar, vandat my
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Viewpoint: Afrikaans

ouers vermoor is, hier in die koue Antartika. Ek sal nooit hulle vergeet net soms van my ‘kondisie’. Ek wou net vuur
daardie dag vergeet nie alhoewel ek dit net vaagweg kan spoeg, maar my ma gee my een kyk en die saak is klaar.
onthou. ‘n Klop aan die deur, ‘n man met ‘n mes wat die huis Voor ek my oë kon uitvee was ons al oppad na die verpeste ete.
instorm, gille, en ergste van alles - my ouers se lewelose liggame Met ons aankoms, sien ek net geel … letterlik. Ek gaan staan
op die koue kombuisvloer. Het jy al van die Ooggetuie maar by ‘n groepie verveelde tieners wat duidelik ook nie hier
Beskermingsprogram gehoor? Die program beskerm die wou wees nie.
ooggetuies van moorde en soortgelyke skandes. Omdat ek ‘n Na so ‘n uur moes ons gaan sit om te eet. Ek moes myself
ooggetuie van my ma en pa se moorde was, is ek onder die maar net kalm hou en versigtig wees om geen mieliepitte in ore
naam Marne Pretorius na Antartika gestuur om by my oom te of neus te kry nie.Dit het als goed gegaan tot by die nagereg.
kom bly. Ek was ‘n ruk veilig totdat my ouers se moordenaar Dit was aaklig,
uit die tronk ontsnap het om my terug te kry vir sy jare in die Iemand stamp my toe van agteraf en ek val gesig eerste in my
tronk, en vanoggend het hy my opgespoor. mielie-roomys!
Dit is waarom ek hardloop om van my ouers se moordenaar Die tafel het stil geword … ek spring toe op … gee ‘n histeriese
weg te hardloop. Ek bereik die bokant van ‘n sneeubedekte giggel en hol na die naaste badkamer.
krans, en stop, want ek kan nie verder nie. Ek waag dit om by Daar het jy dit, ek is gekielie deur ‘n mielie.
Anelia de Waal Graad 8

Jess Cameron Grade 11 Alexander Snyman het die vermoë om ‘n mens met een
oogopslag te interesseer. Maar as jy dink sy voorkoms is
die krans af te loer. Ver onder my lê die moordenaar. Hy is ongewoon, kan jy boeke skryf oor sy persoonlikheid. Sou jy
dood. Hy het seker gegly en geval. Ek gaan sit op die grond en met hom begin praat, sal hy jou met elke tweede sin laat lag en
rus, met my kop in my hande. Ek is veilig! sal jy vind dat sy entoesiasme uiters aansteeklik is. Enige
Trudie Spangenberg Graad 8 persoon sal dadelik aangetrokke wees tot sy prikkelende
manier van dink en sy geneigdheid om alles wat hy sien te
analiseer.
Alexander se hare (wat hy weier om kort te sny) val in lang,
bruin krulle oor sy skouers en steek sy bakore weg. Sy lang,
effense krom neus en sy verstommende lengte laat hom jare
ouer lyk as wat hy is. Sy hande, met hul benerige vingers, lyk
veels te groot vir sy dun arms, sy voete nog groter. Sy bruin oë
is donker en loop oor van idees en denke. Hy is brandmaer en
sy hemp hang altyd los om sy skouers. Alhoewel Alexander se
mond redelik klein is, gee sy groot voortande hom ‘n
knaagdieragtige voorkoms.
Alexander se passie is rekenaars en hy kan jou alles vertel oor
die onderwerp, maar hy het min geduld met mense wat
onkundig is. Hy is geneig om te dagdroom, maar as hy in iets
belangstel, sal hy so aandagtig luister dat hy die inligting na die
tyd woord vir woord kan onthou. Omdat hy talle boeke lees,
het hy waarlik ‘n enorme woordeskat en raak maklik
geïrriteerd met mense wat nie verstaan wat hy sê nie en
alhoewel hy gewoonlik vriendelik is, is hy nie bang om te sê wat
hy dink nie. Hy is nie oor die algemeen sosiaal nie, maar as jy
hom goed ken, sal hy eindelose gesprekke met jou voer. Hy is
onvoorspelbaar en sal jou driekwart van die tyd verras met wat
hy sê en doen.
Alexander Snyman is onvergeetlik. Sy vlymskerp humor,
kleurvolle persoonlikheid en selfs sy fisiese voorkoms maak
hom ‘n ware individu.
Trudie Spangenberg Graad 8

Hulle sit net daar. Maak asof hulle van niks weet nie. Dit maak Sononder – die lug is ‘n mengsel van goud-geel, oranje en sagte
my siek. pienk. ‘n Ligte windjie waai en die see is kalm Dis die perfekte
Dit is wat ek gedink het toe my ma ‘n pot vol mielies voor my tyd om saam met jou liefling kaalvoet op die seesand te gaan
neersit en heel gemaklik vir ons vertel van ‘ons’ uitnodiging na stap. Jamai en sy vrou loop hand aan hand in die stilte. ‘n Jong
‘n mielie-ete toe. Ek dog ek gaan omval. Jammer, my naam is vrou loop verby hulle. Sy het pikswart hare en groen-blou oë
Nieke Boom en ek is ‘n mielievreser. Dit beteken dat mielies
my aanval waar ek ookal eet. My ouers weet daarvan, maar The Iris 131PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: Afrikaans

Liesl le Roux Grade 12 Liesl le Roux Grade 12

net soos die see. Jamai kry ‘n snaakse, maar wonderlike Hulle was ‘n slegte invloed. Ek het rebels geword, maar
gevoel in sy maag. Nee, dink hy, dit was sommer niks nie. steeds het my ma gebid. Hulle het my oortuig dat as ons
Die volgende middag dink Jamai nog aan die vrou met gaatjies en tatoeëermerke kon laat doen, kan ek by ‘n
daardie groen-blou oë. Hy kan nie haar groot glimlag en meisie slaap. Ek was nou al só beïnvloed deur pornografie
sagte oë vergeet nie. Hy sug en gaan in die winkel om dat ek dadelik “ja” gesê het maar ek móés die uitdaging
inkopies te doen. Hy is so besig om te droom dat hy iemand aanvaar.
anders se trollie vat. “Jammer, ek dink dis my trollie wat jy Ek het daarna verskriklik siek geword. Toe ek vir toetse
gevat het,” sê ‘n soet stem agter hom. Dis sy! Die vrou met gaan, kry ek die nuus, ek’s MIV-positief. My ouers het my
die groen-blou oë staan en kyk na hom en hy kyk na haar. Sy ondersteun en ‘n week later is ek gedoop en die Here het ‘n
glimlag skaam en probeer wegloop. antwoord op my probleem voorsien. Ek het geweet hoe
“Wag!”, roep Jamai. “Ek wil net jou naam weet. Net jou om van my vriende ontslae te raak. Hulle was besig om my
naam.” “Susan,” sê sy. Sy gee hom ‘n soen op die wang en sê, video te kyk toe ek daar aankom. Hulle het amper flou
“Ons liefde is nie onmoontlik nie, net nie in hierdie lewe nie.” geval toe hulle die woord “MIV” hoor en net daar is ek
En net so loop sy uit Jamai se lewe uit. Hy hoop elke dag dat verlos.
hy haar iewers sal sien, maar daar is niks nie. Sy is weg. Hy En hier staan ek nou, twintig jaar later en ‘n trotse
weet dat hulle eendag weer sal ontmoet. Liefde gee nie predikant. Ja, ek het VIGS, maar dit het my sterker
sommer op nie. gemaak. Die grootste les wat ek nou nog in my lewe beleef
Tamanique Kampman Graad 8 het, is dat dit nie saak maak nie hoe baie ek my ouers in die
steek laat nie, my ma sal steeds bid.
Dit het begin toe ek sestien was. Ek was nog ‘n kind met Netéske Horton Graad 8
netjiese hare. Ek onthou hoe my ma altyd vir my gesê het dat
sy vir my sal liefhê, maak nie saak wát gebeur nie. In die Suid-Afrika is ‘n skatkis van geleenthede. Suid-Afrika is die
nuwe skool het ek moeilik vriende gemaak. Die een dag toe teengif teen enige nuuskierigheid oor die wêreld en al sy
ek by die skool kom, wag “die groep” my by die ingang in. wonders. My liefde vir my land is die inspirasie agter
Dis waar my swart fase begin het. hierdie opstel. Ek en Suid-Afrika is onafskeidbaar.
Ek het gou genoeg agtergekom dat ek met die verkeerde Tafelberg, die Groot Vyf en baie ander dinge maak Suid-
mense besig was, maar ek het by hulle gebly. Die groepsdruk Afrika só betowerend. Ons het unieke toeriste-
het begin erg word. Hulle wou hê ek moet by ‘n meisie slaap aantreklikhede oral oor die land. Ons strande is van die
om myself te bewys. Ek het néé gesê, maar hulle het aan - beste en ons Kruger Nasionale Park is ‘n definitiewe
gehou. Ek wonder hoe ek so lank uitgehou het.

The Iris132 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

toerisaantreklikheid. Robbeneiland is eie aan ons Viewpoint: Afrikaans
geskiedenis. Ons strande in Durban en ander plekke is
wêreldklas. Hulle is sindelik en ‘n sensasie vir die toeriste. Claire Gritten Grade 12
Ons het so baie verskillende mense. Die meeste van ons
mense is verbind tot verandering en om te verenig in ons
diversiteit. Ons mense is goedhartig, trots en uniek. Ons het
baie uitdagings in die verlede gehad wat gelei het tot baie
dapper vryheids-vegters. Ons vryheidsvegters het baie
wysheid. Ons het ‘n demokratiese gemeenskap waar almal
saam woon. Ons verlede bepaal ons toekoms, dit is wat ons
verbind het.
Ons het verskillende kulture, elf tale en tradisies. Selfs ons
musiek word oorsee versprei soos, Lady Smith Black
Mombazo. Internasionaal is ons selfs bekend vir ons films
en produksies daarvan, soos die Oscar vir Tsotsi. Ons is
bekwaam genoeg om die 2010 sokker-wêreldbeker aan te
bied. Ek het vertroue in ons regering wat toegewyd en
vasberade is om ons mense te help.
Ons nasie is so kleurvol dat ons regtig die rëenboognasie,
met ‘n blink toekoms vorentoe, is. Dit gaan ‘n lang reis
wees, maar ek wil deel daarvan wees. Almal wat hier bly het
baie redes om ‘n trotse Suid-Afrikaner te wees. Ek weet dat
ék is. Suid-Afrika is ‘n land waar ons almal mense is, al
behoort ons tot verskillende rasse.
Priyesha Gordhan Graad 9

Frances Moerdyk Grade 10

The Iris 133PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: Sepedi

Creative Writing

Maitshwaro a Maleba Dipolokong Dirapeng gona ke mathatha, batho ba tsena ba sa apara
selo, e seng le lešelanyana hlong. Mangwele le ona a a
Lehu ke lehu, poloko ke poloko. Motho goba batho bao ba bontšhwa, le magetla a tšwetše ka ntle. Ga go na
robetšego le bona ba tsoma go robala ka kgotso, ba tlhompho lefaseng le e ile kae bagagešo? Goreng re se
ikhutše, ga se ba robalele gore lehung la bona go tle go be na tlhompho, re sa kwele batho bohloko, re sa emaema
le “pontšho ya diaparo.” Go tlo ba bommasebotsana ka maoto ra dira tšeo di lokilego re tlogele tšeo di sa
lehung, go tlo lebelela gore go jewa eng, tšeo ke tšona tše di lokago?
dirago gore phadišano e fihle le mahung.
Eupša ke thabela gore gantši bjo ke bophelo bja
Batshediše ga ba ba kwele bao ba lego dilong bohloko makeišeneng. Ga e le rena batho ba magaeng tlhompho
gore ba šeilwe, ba tlogetšwe ke bao ba ba ratago, go tsene yona re sa na le yona. Re apara ka mokgwa wo o
bommasebotsana, bomponeng ba ipoditše gore ke bona swanetšego le matshidišo re a go fa go bontšha gore re
ke bona, ba apere dimini sekete, dimmejana, le dikwaikwai, lla le wena, re kwa bohloko le wena, o dipelong tša rena.
ba se na taba gore lapa leo ba reng, sa bona ba tlišitše go
lebelela gore mang o apere eng. Batho bešo emang ka maoto le lokiše lefase, ke gore
maitshwaro a maleba dipolokong a a nyakega. Dira seo
se tlišago lethabo bathong, seo se dirago batho ge ba go
lebelela ba kgahlege ba se iše dihlogo fase.
Isabella Madiba Kereiti 11

Dijo tša mabenkeleng di baka mmele.

Bontši bja rena re rata dijo tšeo di apeilwego ka
makhura, kudukudu tšeo di rekilwego mabenkeleng. Ge
motho a tšwafa go apea sa mathomo se motho a se
naganago ke go ya go reka dijo tšeo di dirileego ke
motho yo mongwe.

Se re sa se lemogeng ke gore dijo tšeo ga se di re lokele,
ge re di ja kudu. Ge o eja gatee ka morago ga sebaka ga
gona bothata. Efela gona le batho ba bangwe bao ba
jago ka ntle ka mehla. Le ge dijo tšeo di na le merogo,
dinama tša bona di apeilwe ka makhura a mantši efela ge
o setše o filwe le merogo ga o sa kwa makhura ao.

Dijo tše ga se di lokele mebele ya rena. Ganyane
ganyane dijo tšela di a re nontšha re sa lemoge. Dijo tša
mohuta wo di ka swariša motho malwetši a go
fapafapana. Molwetši a ka hlolwa ke makhura ona ao le
matswai ao ba a tšhelwago ka mo dijong tšeo.

Charon Bartosz Grade 12 Ge re nyaka go phela bophelo bjo bo telele re swanetše
go ja dijo tšeo di nago le phepo. Re se je dijo tša
The Iris134 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS mabenkeleng kudu ka ge di tlo re nontšha. Re swanetše
go ja dijo tša go re lokela gore re bolokege.
Itumeleng Skhosana Kereiti 11

Go itaola ga baithuti dikolong Viewpoint: Sepedi

Baswa ba matšatši a, baa itaola dikolong. Ba nagana gore ka Charon Bartosz Grade 12
gore re na le ditokelo re swanetše re se ke ra hlompha. Taba
yeo yona ga se nnete. Barutiši ga ba sa tseba gore ba sware kae Otsile Matlala Grade 12
ba lese kae.
The Iris 135PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS
Tlhompho e thoma gae. Ga se mošomo wa morutiši go ruta
bana mekgwa. O tla hwetša ngwana a fetola motho yo
mogolo, a re o tla dira se a se nyakang ka gore ke bophelo bja
gagwe. Seo se a tlaba. Go ba le mekgwa ye mebe, go ka se go
iše felo bophelong. O tla ikhwetša o se na bakgotsi le batho ba
go go rata.

Batswadi ba lefela tšhelete ye ntši gore re hwetše thuto ye
botse. Bjale ge moithuti a raloka, a itaola, seo se nyamiša
batswadi. Barutiši le bona ba kwa ba kgopišegile. Dikolo
kamoka di na le melao ye baithuti ba swanetšego go sepela ka
yona. Afrika Borwa le yona e nyaka bana ba mekgwa ye botse.

Mogongwe le mogongwe go na le melao. Bjale re swanetše re
sepele ka yona. Go itaola go ka se thuše ka gore o tla tsena
mathateng, wa ikhwetša o le letlakala.
Lebogang Kgothadi Kereiti 10

Moaparo wa baswa o a nyamiša

Naa phapano gare ga moaparo wa baswa ba sebjale le baswa
ba kgale e kae? Bothata ke eng? E ka ba e le gore baswa ba
sebjale ba na le ditokelo tše dintši?

Bana ba banenyane ga ba sa hlompha batho ba bagolo ebile ga
ba itlhomphe. Ba apara dilo tša go bontšha matswele, dimpa,
marago le dirope. Basetsana ga ba sa na taba le maemo a bona
ka gore ba nyaka go kgahla bašemane. Bothata ga se bjo fela.
Bagwera le bona ba huetšana gore ba apare diaparo tšeo tša go
nyamiša. Bakeng sa gore ba thušane go apara diaparo tša go
aparega, ba ba hlohleletša go apara diaparo tše tša go nyatša
batho.

Batswadi le bona ba a solega. Ba dumela go rekela bana ba
bona diaparo tše ebile ba ba dumelela gore ba di apare
setšhabeng. Ga ba tšhabe gore bana ba bona ba ka katwa goba
ba ba gobatše. Batswadi le bona ga ba hlahle bana ba bona
gomme poelo ya gona ke moswa yo a swerwego ke malwetše a
thobalano goba moswa yo a imileng.

Nna mafoko a bofelo ke gore baswa ba itlhomphe gomme ba
hlomphe mebele ya bona.
Mapitso Makena Kereiti 10

Tšwelopele ya basadi morago ga
mengwaga ye lesome

Ditebogo le malebo a di lebišwe go mengwaga ya diphetogo
morago ga kgatello nageng ya gešo Afrika Borwa. Go tloga
kgale mengwageng ya mpo le tšhitshidi basadi ba gateletšwe,
ba rwele kgare hlogong ya kgatelelo. Tokologo e re tswaletše

Viewpoint: Sepedi

go ya pele go lwela ditokelo tša bona, ka gore go gadima
morago ga botšhwene, be bo tla re tswalela bodutu basading.
Thoriso Mashiapata Kereiti 10

Marematlou

Gona bjale ga ke leswena ga ka dula hlenkge. Go bolela nnete ke
tshwenyegile ke fifetše pelo.

Be ke bolela le mogwera wa ka re bolela ka bokamoso bja rena.
Morago ga polelo ye ke ile ka nagana ka pontšho ye ba ebitšago
Diary of a Mad Black Woman.

Mosadi ge a na le bjoko a hlalefile, a na le bokgoni o dumela
bjang ge monna wa gagwe a re “bjale moratiwa o se ke wa šoma,
dula gae.”

Mosadi yo o dira eng ge eba gore lenyalo le le ya fela? O tlo re
nkabe nkabe gomme nkabe ke namane ya morago!

Bagwera lebelelang sekolo se, bona thuto ye ba re fago mokhwi,
ke ya makgonthe. Le se ke la dumela motho a le botše gore le ka
se kgone go dira seo le senyakago.Dipelo ga di etelane, dira seo
o tsebago o se kgona. Gopola mmapelo o ja serati, senyakelwa
ga a se rate.
Diale Maepa Kereiti 12

Stella Leigh Kibuuka Grade 12 Go kitima go phalwa ke go sepela

kgatelopelo, tšwelopelo le bokamoso. Ka morago ga Ngwana ge a le lesea o thoma ka go dula, a be a abule, a be a
mengwaga e lesome ruri basadi ba tlošitšwe legapi feleletše ka go sepela. Go bjalo le ka batho ba bagolo. Ba
sefahlegong go bona tšeo e leng dihlohlo go ka tliša swanetše gore ba latelele dikgato tša bophelo. Ngwana a ka se re
tšhomelo pele. e le gona a ithutang go bolela a išiwa sekolong. Ge motho a
kitima a sa latelele ditsela tša bophelo, o tlo kgopiwa a be a boela
Basadi lehono ba ikeme sesadi ka morago ga go lwa ntwa morago ka tšwelopele ya bophelo bja gagwe. Le gona e tlo dira
ya kgaphamadi e bile lehono ke dikakapa dipolotiking gore nako e mo šie ka lebaka la gore o tshetše dikgato tše
(Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka), kgwebong le ditswerere dingwe tša bophelo.
dipapading. Ke nnete tšhuana ye e sa hwego e leta monono,
go tseba mang gore lehono basadi be e ka ba bona ba Mohlala ke gore batho ba bantši ba kitimela go dira tšhelete ka
hwetšang monyetla go ralala le naga go bapala kgatho ye mokgwa wo o sa lokang, ka go swana le ka diPyramid Scheme.
bohlokwa, go kwalakwatša molaetša wa lerato, bommogo, Batho ba beeletša ditšhelete tša bona gore morago ga
tekatekano, kgethologanyo, tokafatšo, tlala, bodulo le matšatšinyana, ba hwetše tšhelete yeo ya bona le poelo e ntši
botshwelamare. kudu. Fela batho ba ga ba tsebe gore babeeletši ba tlo timelela
moyeng ka ditšhelete tša bona.Ge nkabe ba išitše tšhelete yeo
Se kgahlišago ke gore le mmušo wa rena o na le seabe, go pankeng e be e tlo ba gona ka nako yeo ba ehlokang, ebile e tlo
hlompha basadi le banenyana go ralala naga bao ba ba e na le manamane le ge e ka ba e nyane.
kgathilego tema go tšwelelo nageng ya gešo. Letšatši la 9
Agostose, ke tšhupo gore mmušo o tšeela basadi hlogong Sephidi se sengwe le se sengwe se na le mo se felelago gona le
ka hlama tšatši le. mo se thomang gona. O ka se kgone go tshela karolo ya
mathomo wa ya go ya bobedi. Mo bophelong motho o
Go thwe ge o ruta mosadi o rutile setšhaba, ruri a gona swanetše ke go dira selo ka se tee ka se tee, a sa di gogole, a ekiša
nnete ya go feta ye. Mmušo o swerwe ke bona basadi ka ba bangwe, le bagwera ba gagwe ba ba na go le tše ntši ka
gore sello sa bona se sa wele fase. serotong sa bona sa bophelo.

Ditebogo go basadi ka moka ba Afrika Borwa, ge e ka be e Dira dilo ka mo o kgonang ka gona le ka mo bophelo bo tlang
se ka lona lešoko le lerato basadi ba be ba tla hloka sebete sa ka gona.
Gobane go dira dilo ka go kitima, o tlo feleletša o dira diphošo
The Iris136 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS goba dilo tše di tšweleng tseleng tša go se kgahliše. Bjale
kodumela gobane ga go lehumo leo le tšwago kgauswi.
Loatile Tsoai Kereiti 12

Viewpoint: Sepedi

Ge le go hlabetše, le orele Charon Bartosz Grade 12

Tšatši lela ke bego ke le emetše le ile la goroga. Ke tsebile ratwe. Ba bangwe baswa ge ba nagana go re ba iteka le gona
gore le tla fihla eupša ga se ka nagana gore le tla fihla ka ba šoma kudu go tšwela pele sekolong goba bophelong
lebelo le. Le be le ntlhabetše bjalo, ke be ke swanetše go le gomme go se na nko e tšwago lemina, ba ngala bophelo ba
orela. itagela botagweng. Bothata bjo bogolo bja diokobatši ke
gore motho a ka gobala a seke a kgona le go ba le tšhelete ya
Tšatši leo le bego le beilwe gore ke ngwale tlhahlobo ya ka go tšwela pele ka tšona. Ke ka nako e bjalo ge batho ba
ya mafelelo ya dipalo le be le fihlile. Ke rile ge ke tsoga thoma go utswa le go bolaya go fepa kganyogo ya
mesong ka kwa pelo ya ka e re ehu-e ewa. Ke ile ka tsenwa diokobatši.
ke phefšana yeo e ntsenego ka mading ka thoma go tširoga.
Ke be ke bethwa ke nako ka phefong bjalo, ke be ke Baswa ba swanetše go itlhokomela ka gore
swanetše go itokišetša go ya sekolong. Letšatši le le ntletše bommapatšadiokpbatši ba tseba gore baswa ba lehono ge
ga go ka mokgwa wo nka le tšhabelago. ba na le tšhelete ba etela mabenkeleng afe, ba tsena dikolo
tše dife le gona ba ba bona ka meaparo ya go tura le
Ke ile ka tsoga ka tšhela meetse a boruthwana ka pafong ka dillathekeng tša bona.
tsentšha leoto go kwa gore meetse ao a bose naa. Ke ile ka Bona bommapatšadiokobatši ba gwerana le baswa go re ba
gopola matšatši ao ke bego ke balela dipalo tše gomme ka ba tshepe.
gopola gape mašego ao ke sanka ka robala ka baka la tšona
dipalo tše. Ka nako yeo mmele wa ka ka moka o be o Se e lego manyami ka diokobatši ke gore ge o di thomile go
nweletše ka gare ga meetse ebile ke thoma go kwa boiketlo boima go di tlogela ka lebaka la go gobala, bjalo ka katse le
bo kokota. Ka ipotša gore “ashi ke lokile, ke tseba mošomo maswi. Motho yo o tšeago diokobatši o tlo feletša a befile
wa ka. Seo se tlago se ka se mpalele.” mmele ka ntle le ka gare. Ge a bonwa o tlo lebelega bjale ka
setopo se se sepelang.
Mokgwa wa go nagana wo, o ile wa dira gore ke tšwe ka
moo meetseng ka potlako ke itokiše, ke kitimele sekolong. Re swanetše go thušana, re gane go homola ge re tseba
Gantši ga ke fele ke tšhogela meleko ya dipalo, eupša ye batho ba tšeago diokobatši goba batho ba di rekišang ka
yona e be e le moleko wa meleko.Lehono ke be ke eya go lebeka la go re, diokobatši ga di swane le AIDS, tšona re
ngwala tlhathlobo ya ka ya mafelelo ya sekolo seo se kgona go dira se re se dirang go di emiša tseleng pele di
phagamego. Se se ra gore ke swanetše go bontšha bokgoni bolaya.
bja ka ka botlalo ka gore nka se hwetše sebaka se sengwe go Kgothatso Lephoko Kereiti 10
dira bjalo. Taba ye e dirile gore ke phakiše ke gate ke gatoge
ka lebelo. The Iris 137PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Go fihleng ga ka sekolong, ke ile ka hlakana le bagwera baka
ba bangwe bao ba be go ba tlo ngwala le nna. Ge ke ba bona
ba iketlile le nna ke ile ka thoma go iketla. Moleko o rile ge o
bewa tafoleng ya ka ka thoma go ikwa maatla. Dilo tšohle
tšeo ke bego ke di badišiša ke dio kwa di boa ka hlogong.
Tlhahlobo ye e be e tlo ba yeo ke e ratago kudukudu. Ke ile
ka ithuta gore o se ke wa tšhaba dilo tšeo o sa di tsebego ka
gore Sepedi se re “Ge le go hlabetše, le orele.”
Lebogang Bopape Kereiti 12

Diokobatši di a bolaya

Diokobatši di senya maphelo a batho bao ba di šomišago le
a bao ba phedišanago le bona malapeng, mešomong,
bagwereng le ekonomi e a šitišega. Diokobatši mafelelong
di ka bolaya barati ba tšona. Diokobatši ke lenaba la baswa,
ke lenaba la lethabo le gona ke lenaba la tšwelopelo
setšhabeng.

Lehono baswa ba bantši ba nwa bjala, ba a tsuba le gona ba
tšea diokobatši. Seo ba sa se lemogeng ke gore go tagwa ke
diokobatši le bjala ga se go ba le mahlale ka gore mahlajana
a gona ke a nakonyana fela. Baswa ba bantši ba thetšwa ke
bagwera goba bommapatšadiokobatši bao ba itlwaetšago
bona ka bohwirihwiri le bonokwane. Baswa gape ba ka
thoma go šomiša diokobatši ge ba sa boledišane le batswadi
gabotse e bile ba hloka bagwera ba nagana go re ga ba

Viewpoint: Sepedi

Batswadi Sarah Atkinson Grade 11

Batswadi ke batho ba ba bohlokwa bophelong bja gago. Ke lebake a sa na le mengwaga ye lesomepedi fela. Motswadi wa
bona ba go tlišitšeng lefaseng le, ba go apeša, ba go ješa lebile gagwe o lekile go mo kgalema ka dilo di sa thoma. Mmagwe o

ba re fe lefelo mo re robalang gona. Batswadi ba hloka mo kgalemetše go sa tloga.
tlhompho gobane ba šoma ka thata gore wena o phele botse.

Bo bohle re rata batswadi ba rena thata eupša go na le dinako Ngwana yo o thomile ka go utswa ka gae le gona go rekiša dilo

tše dingwe ba re befediša. Tšatši le lengwe le le lengwe, o tša ka ngwakong wa gabo bjalo ka diyalemoya, ditheipe, CDs
leboge Modimo go ba le batswadi. le tšona dijo tša bo dijo. Mmagwe a mo kgala ka mantšu a reng,

Go tlo ba le matšatši a mangwe, batswadi ba tlo hlaba mogoši “ Dilo tšeo o di dirago o tlile go fetelela mafelelong wa dira
dilo tše kgolo tša go feta tše.” A mo kgalema a re, “lesa go

eupša o se ke wa befelwa gobane ba leka go go thuša gore o utswa.”
tsebe gore keng e lokilego le gore keng e sa lokang. O phele o Ka letšatši le lengwe a fetša ka gore yena o yo dula Gauteng, ka
leboge tšohle tše ba go fang tšona gobane go na le bana ba ba

robalang mebileng ba se nang batswadi. Ba sokola ebile go ba ge a sa rate go dula magaeng. O ile a tloga a tšhaba gae a ya
na taetšo ya motho. O swanetše gore o bolele le batswadi ba Gauteng mo a gahlaneng le dipela dithota. A swanela ke go

gago ka selo se sengwe le se sengwe gobane ke bona ba tla go tlwaela bophelo bja go gwaragwara bja Gauteng.
ofe keletšoye botše.

Ka bomadimabe o rile a sa swara motho poo kganthe motho

Batswadi ba gago, le bona, ke batho ba bagolo mo go wena yo ke lephodisa le swere sethunya. A tloga a tšea tšhelete ya
gomme o swanetše go ba hlompha ka mokgwa woo o gagwe a tšhaba, ba mo thuntšha mokokotlo, a wela fase ya ba

hlomphago batho ba bagolo ba o sa ba tsebego. O ba leboge ge le gona go fedile ka yena. Šole a dutše godimo ga setulo sa
gobane ge nke e se ka bona, nke be o se gona lefaseng le. Go go sepela. Ya ba gona e le segole. ba mo tšea ba mo iša

ba bontšha gore a ba rata, ba botše tšatši le lengwe le lengwe. Makotopong. O rile a sa le gae gwa se tšeye sebaka a tšewa ke
Aobakwe Nembane Kereiti 9 phiri.

Ditlabonnyane ke ditlaboima Mmagwe o ile a lla a re ke lekile go kgalema, ka palelwa,
Baswana ba boletše ba re “ngwana magana go botšwa o wela gomme tla dibonnyane ditlaboima. Mosadi mogolo a fetša ka
komeng a re koma ke tšešo.” Ngwana yo o thoma ka go goga gore, “Ngwanaka e be e le ngwana magona go botšwa a wetše
komeng a re koma ke tšešo.”
Khutso Mrwata Kereiti 9

The Iris138 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: French

Creative Writing

French

Enfin !

Le jour que j’ai attendu avec impatience depuis cinq ans était Veuillez remplir ce formulaire, s’il vous plaît.
finalement arrivé ! Aujourd’hui, dans quelques heures, je
serais libre…ou pas ! C’était le jour où je devais passer mon C’était celui que j’avais rempli il y a deux semaines. Quel
permis de conduire. désordre !

Je me suis bien préparée afin d’être certaine de réussir et Asseyez-vous. On vous appellera dans un instant.

Alain, mon prof, était bien satisfait et sûr de mon succès.

NOTRE ORDINATEUR…12h00…Bienvenue à Rayton…

Je voulais répéter le stationnement de la voiture et parcourir

la route que l’examinateur allait me faire suivre. Nous Je n’étais plus nerveuse…je n’avais ni mangé ni bu. Je voulais

sommes donc partis à sept m’évanouir. J’ai essayé de

heures et demie pour parler à d’autres gens qui
Rayton. Mon test était pour étaient condamnés à cet
9h40. emprisonnement dans la salle

d’attente. L’une était une

J’étais un peu nerveuse et dame d’environ 45 ans qui ne

l’attente m’a rendue plus disait rien. Un autre était un

inquiète. Je suis arrivée tôt à jeune homme de 20 ans mais

la salle d’attente. Le seul on ne pouvait pas se parler.

objet d’intérêt était Le sifflement du garde chargé

l’horloge qui fascinait tout de la sécurité m’énervait aussi

le monde ! On y lisait sans beaucoup.

cesse : NOTRE

ORDINATEUR…09h00 Mademoiselle, il faut

…Bienvenue à Rayton… absolument vous plaindre ! Je

vais appeler la directrice pour

Et puis la longue attente a que vous puissiez passer

commencé… Claire Gritten Grade 12 votre test de conduire toute
de suite. Comme vous n’êtes

NOTRE ORDINATEUR…10h00…Bienvenue à pas arrivée en retard ce n’est pas juste de vous faire attendre. Le

Rayton… Le temps passait. meilleur serait de parler directement à la directrice.

Mademoiselle, je sais que vous êtes là depuis longtemps. Est- J’ai bien compris la situation : il y a avait seulement un
ce que je peux vous aider? examinateur. L’un avait mal et l’autre était « trop occupé » avec
d’autres « problèmes » (en réalité il ne faisait rien !) J’avais donc
Oui, je suis ici pour passer mon test de conduire. J’attends besoin, d’après la directrice, d’un peu de patience !
depuis une heure.
NOTRE ORDINATEUR…13h00…Bienvenue à Rayton…
L’horloge indiquait encore que le temps passait lentement.
J’en avais marre ! Vraiment marre ! Il ne s’agissait plus de
NOTRE ORDINATEUR…11h00…Bienvenue à patience. Il s’agissait d’intense irritation.
Rayton…
Madame, je dois absolument passer mon test de conduire
Barnes ! aujourd’hui ! J’attends depuis quatre heures et je pense qu’il

The Iris 139PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: French

Lydia Radajonovic Grade 11 Stella Leigh Kibuuka Grade 12

faut me donner un peu d’attention. C’était la vielle dame La petite fleur blanche est très délicate
attendait depuis douze heures. Elle est née ce matin dans un monde sans amour
Ses minuscules pétales commencent lentement à s’ouvrir
Calmez-vous, mademoiselle. C’est l’heure du déjeuner ! Mais elles se reculent devant le bruit et la violence
Elle ne veut pas vivre
J’ai finalement passé mon test à 14h40 après une longue Mais elle le doit
matinée de désordre et de frustration. Et imaginez-vous – j’y Les pétales et ses yeux s’ouvrent
ai réussi ! Et elle voit tout :
Gwendolyn Barnes Grade 12 Un
Monde
Je grimpe de plus en plus haut Plein
Sentant la liberté dans mon cœur De Haine …
J’arrive au ciel et Ses pétales deviennent noirs :
Je suis entourée d’un bleu profond Une
Autre
Mais quand je me tourne Innocente
Pour rentrer à la terre Est
Je vois que je suis trop haute Perdue
Et je ne peux plus y rentrer Maia Zway Grade 12

J’ai atteint le sommet Cette recette est pour deux personnes :
Mais j’ai tout laissé Dans un grand bol de joie, mettez un peu de patience. Ajoutez
Mon cœur n’est plus libre une livre d’amour et quelques bons rites. Versez-y une
Mais tout plein de regrets bouteille de bonheur. Puis ajoutez lentement beaucoup de
beaux souvenirs. Faites cuire tout doucement. Servez sur une
Ce ciel qui était ma liberté tranche de fidélité.
Est maintenant ma prison
Je commence à me noyer Ce mélange restera délicieux pendant toute votre vie à
Au bleu profond
Maia Zway Grade 12

The Iris140 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: French

condition de bien le garder. Bon appétit et surtout, Claire Gritten Grade 12
bonne amitié !
Catherine Rogers et Preshanthi Sivakumaran Grade 11 Claire Gritten Grade 12

J’aime l’école parce que j’ai beaucoup de copines et j’y
apprends beaucoup. J’aime les cours et je pense qu’ils
sont très importants. L’école sert à préparer le métier
qu’on aime. J’aime l’école mais j’aime aussi les
vacances ! Pourquoi ?Eh bien, j’aime rester chez moi
et ne rien faire !

J’aime l’idée d’un uniforme scolaire parce que comme
ça les élèves ne sont pas différentes des autres. Il n’y a
pas de poseurs ou de divisions entre les élèves.
L’uniforme scolaire est soigné et propre. J’aime mon
uniforme parce qu’il est propre mais beau aussi.
Liang Yu Grade 10

Bonjour !

Bonjour. Je suis Danielle van Wyk. J’ai treize ans. Je
suis en grande huit. Mon animal préféré est le chat.
Mon anniversaire c’est le deux décembre. Je suis la
fille de Madame et Monsieur van Wyk. J’ai un frère. Il
s’appelle David. Je suis à P.H.S.G. J’aime la musique et
l’art. Je déteste l’école et les jeux électroniques !
Danielle van Wyk Grade 8

Je m’appelle Ingrid Lambert. Je suis sud-africaine. J’ai
quatorze ans. Mon anniversaire c’est le quatre mai. Je
suis en grade huit Gladstone. J’aime les livres, j’aime la
danse, j’aime aussi la musique. Je suis la fille de
Monsieur Lambert et de Madame Lambert. J’ai une
sœur. Elle est Karen. Mon professeur de français est
Madame Wa Kalonji.
Ingrid Lambert Grade 8

Bonjour ! Je m’appelle Trudie. J’ai quatorze ans. Je
suis en grade huit F, Duncan. J’ai une sœur en grade
douze. Elle s’appelle Susan. Mon anniversaire c’est le
vingt-quatorze mai. J’aime les jeux électroniques.
Trudie Spangenberg Grade 8

Claire Gritten Grade 12

The Iris 141PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: German

Am Wochenende ‘Mama?’
habe ich Pläne ‘Nein!’
in der Boys High Schule ‘Vater?’
ist die Tanzszene ‘Nein!’
ich tanz mit Freunden Ich brauche mehr Taschengeld! Kleidung und Musik sind sehr
links und rechts teuer. Ihr bezahlt für Brents neue Schuhe und das neue
die Jungen Tennisrakett! Ich bin älter! Ein Mädchen! Reif! Eine kleine
die Jungen Erwachsene!
sind gar nicht schlecht. ‘Nein!’
Grade 9 Vater, bitte?
‘Nein …
Ich heiße Kelly
Ich kann Singen Ich bin still geblieben. Ich habe an deine Antwort gedacht …
Ich mag Musik Bestechung. Mutti wäscht meine Kleidung. Mein Vater macht
Und vor Freude springen. Wurst …
Kelly Brookshaw Grade 9 ‘Vater?’ habe ich geflüstert.
‘Ja, Lauren?’
Wie heißt du? ‘Ich haben gesehen, was du gemacht hast. Ich habe deine
Wer, ich? Zigarette in dem Garten gefunden.’
Ja, du? ‘Uh … meine … uh … sei still bitte!’
Was willst du? Mutti sieht uns mißtrausch an.
Laß mich in Ruh! ‘Vater?’
Hast du nicht gestern mein Handy gestohlen? ‘Ja?’
Kann schon sein, hab's verkauft nach Polen. ‘Mehr Taschengeld. Ja, oder Nein?’
Du dumme Kuh, das war doch meins! Bestechung ist eine gefährlich Waffe …’ hat er gesagt, ‘aber
Haste Pech, das mag wohl sein. sehr erfolgreich.’
Kelly Brookshaw Grade 9 Lauren van der Vyver Grade 12

The Iris142 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Viewpoint: German

Poetry

The Iris 143PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Prefects’ Induction and Camp
Happenings

Prefects’ Induction and Camp

PHSG 105 years

The Iris144 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Grade 8 Camp

Grade 8 Camp Happenings

The Iris 145PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Grade 8 Camp

Grade 8 Camp Happenings

145PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Inter-house Athletics Athletics
Happenings

Inter-house

The Iris146 PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS

Inter-house Gala
Happenings

Inter-house Gala

The Iris 149PHSG 1902-2007 • THE IRIS