The Iris Magazine 2016

Netball

NETBALL U16C TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Naledi Hlangweni,
Mbali Mbada, Amy Holtzkampf,
Motheo Ditodi, Lesedi Mokgabudi,
Lesedi Mampa
Front Row (L-R): Rethabile Thaoge,
Thando Ncobo, Mbali Mahlaka

NETBALL U15A TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Savannah Carvalheiro,
Melissa Sithole, Elke du Toit, Kgolagano Kharume
Front Row (L-R): Bonolo Moikanyane (Vice-captain),
Ms E Bezuidenhout, Modiegi Motsoaledi (Captain)

NETBALL U15B TEAM
Absent: Annelie van der Walt (Captain)
Back Row (L-R): Koketso Phale, Unathi Msezane,
Tegan Makovini, Mmaphale Ramatsetse
Front Row (L-R): Kgothatso Mabena,
Ms E Bezuidenhout, Shannon Busacker (Vice-captain)
NETBALL U15C & D TEAM
Absent: Abigail de Kock, Tsholofelo Rantsie,
Rutendo Mafukidze, Mamorane Mamogobo
Back Row (L-R): Kelebogile Ratsoana, Carina Netto,
Juliette Auret, Nathi Qwelane, Lesego Mkhonto,
Brooklin Sofianos, Lehlogonolo Letshela, Koketso Phale
Front Row (L-R): Ms T Mnani (Coach), Lethabo Mokhuane,
Kaylin Schultz (Vice-Captain), Shayla de Leeuw, Ms T Goyns

99The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Netball NETBALL U14A TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Tshowa Katumba,
100 The Iris Lara Holtzkampf, Emma Bartz,
Daniella Yav, Kamogelo Laka,
PHSG 1902–2016 Gisele Angyalossy
Front Row (L-R): Tyla Brand (Captain),
Mrs M Andrade, Kaiden Moore
NETBALL U14B TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Chèonè Damon, Tsholofelo Nkaletse,
Lerato Rakomane, Rorisang Rampai, Oratile Mothibe
Front Row (L-R): Chevandré Potts (Captain),
Mrs M Andrade, Nicole Gysman
NETBALL U14C TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Onthatile Madiba, Thatiso Moyo,
Aaliyah van Heerden, Lilitha Mhlekwa, Melisa Ndlovu
Front Row (L-R): Bavuyise Mhlonyane, Mrs M Andrade,
Angel Wolverson (Captain)
NETBALL U14D TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Atlegang Morake,
Susan Bisschop, Kuhle Makondo,
Reneilwe Lehong, Orapeleng Mampane,
Kimberley Hore
Front Row (L-R): Shekinah Kaninda
(Vice-captain), Mrs M Andrade,
Shannon Ball (Captain)

Soccer

Soccer

SOCCER SENIOR TEAM
Absent: Hsang-Chun Chiu, Cassandra Quiterres
Back Row (L-R): Nana Zulu, Sarah Trowsdale, Tsholofelo Molefe, Megan Hilton, Ellen Maartens, Mishka Kramer, Karabo Prinsloo-Heyns, Storm de Groeve,
Micaela Rodrigues
Middle Row (L-R): Siphumelele Buhati, Anne-Marie Mugisa, Maxine Loganathan, Dominique Rossi, Alice-Jane Marais, Nomsa Mahlangu,
Dominique Lockhart, Tshepise Molekwa
Front Row (L-R): Shakeera Masoet, Kgaugelo Mkumbeni, Rethabile Choshane, Mr V Sebuthuma (Coach), Tarabhan Pemu (Captain), Caryn Wright,
Joy Mahlangu

SOCCER JUNIOR TEAM
Absent: Bonolo Moikanyane, Megan Dinwoodie, Danielle van Zyl, Goitseone Mothibe, Miecke Venter, Danica Tolda, Giséle Angyalossy,
Alexia Wheatley, Thendo Raliphada
Middle Row (L-R): Sheila-Lee Dias, Tlotlo Makgopa, Hope Muchiri, Sophia Deliyiannis, Laura Neumann, Kaylen Pershouse, Nyeleti Silawu,
Katleho Mokoena
Front Row (L-R): Hannah Mitchell, Moyahabo Lentsoane, Juwairiyyah Kraft, Mr V Sebuthuma (Coach), Taryn Wathen (Captain),
Ghéoné Damon, Christine Mumera

The Iris 101

PHSG 1902–2016

Squash

Squash

SQUASH 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Skye Brown, Ashleigh Place, Caragh McIntosh, Justine King
Front Row (L-R): Mr M Chileshe (Coach), Marcail Wragg (Captain), Ms D Klopper

‘Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do 2016 has been a year of wins, losses and
better’ – Pat Riley the development of strength. The girls
The year was filled with new adventures, where challenges continued to persevere, wanting to keep
were faced and goals were achieved. We started off with a their hunger and love for squash satisfied.
completely new First Team along with a brand new uniform. There are special educators and trainers in
This generated a new energy in all our teams. the Squash Teams whom we appreciate for
At the DSG Tournament we competed against schools we
had not faced before. This proved to be a huge learning their hours given,
curve for the girls. All the teams were constantly organisation and
motivated for the tough competition ahead.
The National All Girls’ Festival was up next. We were passion. Thank you for
fuelled up and ready for the sweat and exhilaration supporting the girls as they grew stronger and for
of the games. Despite a few injuries, the First Team all the cheers, support and motivation. Thanks
remained dedicated to playing every single game. go to our talented coach, Mr Mwansa Chileshe,
All the teams saw familiar faces at the annual Eunice our amazing head of squash, Ms Klopper and the
Derby Day. Although the bitter cold kept us all managers, Ms Olivier and Ms Grover.
wanting to stay under the blankets, our passion for THANK YOU SQUASH FAMILY 2016.
squash kept us strong. Marcail Wagg
Captain of Squash

102 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Squash
SQUASH 2ND TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Helena Zelle, Vibaksha Lalla,
Nicolette Kotzé, Danian Smit, Jordan Boonzaier
Front Row (L-R): Mr M Chileshe (Coach),
Courtney Donaldson (Vice-captain), Mrs D Klopper
SQUASH 3RD TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Caitlyn Wragg, Megan Dinwoodie,
Cara Watson, Aveshni Govender
Front Row (L-R): Mr M Chileshe (Coach),
Larissa Liebenberg, Ms M Olivier

SQUASH D TEAM & BEGINNERS
Back Row (L-R): Alice-Jane Marais, Tegan van Jaarsveld, Rachel-Ann van Biljon, Tamryn Logan, Celeste Hendricks, Leah Heystek-Irving,
Jameri le Court de Billot, Nicole Housdon
Front Row (L-R): Mrs M Olivier, Thuli Makhotla, Kathleen Pretorius, Mr M Chileshe (Coach), Danielle da Canha, Skye Kershaw, Ms D Klopper

The Iris 103

PHSG 1902–2016

Swimming

Swimming

SWIMMING A TEAM
Absent: Charne de Jager, Mia Kopplinger
Back Row (L-R): Frances Coetser, Emma Scheffer, Heike Thormählen, Tayla Cromhout, Elke du Toit, Kelsey Langley, Kendal Grant, Jodi Steytler,
Ashley Coetzee, Cara Schoombie, Tya Brand, Caitlin Jones
Middle Row (L-R): Taylor Muller, Danica Wolfaardt, Bronwyn Openshaw, Rachel-Ann van Biljon, Jade Haynes, Megan Grobler, Esmee van der Arend,
Robyn Houtman, Theresa Grant, Rachel Meyer, Stephanie Houtman, Megan Loganathan
Front Row (L-R): Hannah Snyman, Larizza Funk, Courtney van Biljon (Vice-captain), Mrs M Marais, Mrs M Albertyn, Deirdré van Niekerk (Captain),
Jamie Brown, Caitlin Manley

We are going to win as a team, lose as a team and achieve as a team. The Pretoria A Inter-high Gala was where we were going to
Training started not only in the warm afternoon sun, but also in the show off our talents. This was held at Hillcrest on the sixteenth
crisp cool mornings. This was in preparation for three important of February. PHSG placed third with the spirit trophy and the
galas that were coming our way. Under the instruction of Mrs PHSG Swimming Team placed fourth overall. This was a huge
Albertyn and Mrs Houtman we not only improved our swimming achievement for the girls as we achieved our goal.
but our comradery and team spirit as well. At the Pretoria B Inter-high we placed fourth overall. Due to
Costume tans and sunblock became part of our vocabulary as we the weather not playing in our favour, the Pretoria C Inter-high
prepared for our first gala. The St Mary’s Splash Gala was the start was cancelled. Not all was well during our swimming season
of something great and also a warm up for the more important as many girls suffered injuries and faced illnesses, but all our
galas to come. We happily managed to secure a sixth place in the swimmers swam to the best of their ability. As captain I am
St Mary’s Splash Gala. This year’s Aquatics Festival was held in proud to be a part of this extraordinary group of girls. YOU are
Johannesburg at St Mary’s Waverley. The team had an anxious the champions.
bus ride, but the atmosphere was filled with excitement and ‘We lose ourselves in the things we love. We find ourselves there
anticipation. The PHSG Swimming Team placed sixth out of ten too’ – Kristin Martz
schools and we were very proud of our hard work as we kept the Deirdré van Niekerk
PHSG name high. Captain of Swimming

104 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Our placing in the galas over this past year is as follows: Swimming

Results of Pretoria A Inter-High Gala held at Hillcrest SWIMMING B TEAM
1. Afrikaans Hoër Meisiesskool A Back Row (L-R): Aime Wilson,
2. Hoërskool Menlopark A Lia Seagrave-Sutton, Shayna
3. Cornwall Hill College McAlister, Jade Gower-Jackson,
4. Pretoria High School for Girls A Mia Janse van Rensburg, Mia
5. St Mary's Diocesan School for Girls A Shaul, Kalilah Dippenaar,
6. Hatfield Christian School Sibusisiwe Nyika, Chelsey Adams
7. Southdowns College Middle Row (L-R): Micaela
8. Hoërskool Waterkloof Rodrigues, Camille Nakhal,
9. Hoërskool Garsfontein Cameron van den Berg, Kelly
Lucas, Savannah McAlister,
Pretoria B Inter-High Gala (Girls’ section) Lara Gouws, Jade Nel, Hannah
1. Afrikaans Hoër Meisiesskool B van der Linde, Jade Kühn
2. Woodhill College Front Row (L-R):
3. Hoërskool Menlopark B Gemma Felton, Ezabelle Els,
Courtney van Biljoen
(Vice-captain), Mrs M Marais,
Mrs M Albertyn, Deirdré van
Niekerk (Captain), Tia Dupuy,
Daniella-Lee Ming-Yesca

SWIMMING C TEAM
Absent: Charis van Rie, Lisa
Lastrucci, Robin Saltmarsh,
Tiyani Chabalala, Skye
Marryatt, Rizwaanah Saloojee
Back Row (L-R): Jenna
Rushmere, Tegan Barnard, Amy
Chapman, Olivia Hitchcock,
Shannon Forbes, Morgan van
der Linde, Leah Mascini, Bella
Gioia, Sarah Vogetseder
Middle Row (L-R): Taryn
Wathen, Aileen White, Mirella
Michalopoulos, Kirsten Sutton,
Maxine Milton, Allicyn Moses,
Liah McEwen
Front Row (L-R): Chloe
Hawkins, Tiffany Padiachey,
Courtney Anderson,
Ms S Dorlas, Gheone Damon,
Jamie McHardy, Nina McHardy

4. Pretoria High School for Girls B
5. Midstream College
6. Hoërskool Oos-Moot
7. Hoërskool Montana
8. Hoërskool Overkruin
9. Hoërskool Eldoraigne
Pretoria C Inter-High Gala (Girls’ section)
Unfortunately, due to equipment malfunctioning and
dangerous lightning, less than half the events were swum, thus
no conclusive results were derived.

The Iris 105

PHSG 1902–2016

Tennis

Tennis

TENNIS 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Chané Theron, Simone Pretorius, Ashley Wilson
Front Row (L-R): Jessica Heath (Captain), Mrs Buckley, Danny Wolfaardt

Our aim this year was to create an environment where all players Derby Day and finishing eighth overall at the National All
felt welcome, no matter what their skill level was. We wanted
everyone to do their best, enjoy themselves and feel part of the Girls’ Festival. Unfortunately, we lost against Eunice at the
Girls’ High tennis family.
We were very excited and privileged to be joined by a new tennis Derby Day. Congratulations to Simone Pretorius on receiving
organiser, Ms Hubbard. Ms Hubbard’s passion and enthusiasm for
the game is contagious. We thank her for everything she has done Northern Gauteng colours and to Ruby Lutwama for being
for us the year.
Thanks to our coaches and all of our players for the selected for the U15A Northern Gauteng Team.
commitment they have shown. Because of them, our game
showed much improvement this year. This year was particularly enjoyable as we all supported each
The 2016 highlights were defeating DSG at their
other, worked hard and had a lot of fun together. Tennis is

usually seen as an individual sport, but at Girls’ High it is

most certain that tennis is a team sport: Together Everyone

Achieves More.

Jessica Heath
Captain of Tennis

106 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Tennis
TENNIS 2ND TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Ashley Wilson,
Ruby Lutwama, Luché Leach
Front Row (L-R): Sarah Vogetseder,
Mrs S Pike, Katie Fitzgerald
TENNIS JUNIOR A TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Sarah Vogetseder,
Lennie Elsenbroek
Front Row (L-R): Ruby Lutwama,
Mrs S Pike, Luché Leach

The Iris 107

PHSG 1902–2016

Volleyball

Volleyball

VOLLEYBALL 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Vaschel Naidoo, Taeeun Kim, Louise Burdett, Kiara Tolda, Maryam Sanatkaran, Simona Coetzee, Lisah Dzemwa,
Kutlwana Sithole
Front Row (L-R): Phemelo Tshehla, Bianca Caldeira de Aguair (Captain), Mrs Y Jackson, Kathryn Bredell, Khanyisile Hlalethoa

Volleyball is a sport in which you need to believe in the Tournament, the First Team placed sixth overall and Kutlwi won
game, in your talents, in yourself and in your team. an individual award for best blocker. We left with memories that
The busy volleyball season started off last year at TUKS will last a lifetime.
Volleyball would not have been the thrill it was this year had it not
where both the First Team been for each and every participant. Without the most dedicated and
and the U16s placed third. passionate coaches and staff, none of this would have been possible.
This achievement made us To the coaches, Preya and Amy, thank you for the advice throughout
feel very optimistic and the year and your support when we needed it most. Thank you to
excited for the tournament coaches Maki and Vanessa, for shaping us into the great sportswomen
that awaited us. that we are today. We are grateful for the hard work and time
We later played in the they have put into the teams. Thank you to Ms Bosua and
Fourways Tournament where Mrs Rwida for their compassion and enthusiasm. Thank
the competition was fierce. you to Mrs Jackson for her kindness, understanding and
Nevertheless, our U14A Team dedication.
placed third and our First Team My volleyball ladies are all phenomenal
placed second. sportswomen with fighting spirits. Serving them
The Volleyball Teams have as captain has been an honour for which I am
certainly improved from the truly grateful. For those who are still to come, I
previous years. After our High believe you will make PHSG proud by bringing
School League games, both the First home the gold from the Mahikeng Volleyball
Team and U16A played for playoffs Tournament. Good luck for the years to come
and both ranked third. The Second and always remember to dream, believe and
Team won six out of fourteen matches achieve.
and the U16B Team won eight out of Bianca Caldeira de Aguiar
twelve matches. Captain of Volleyball
At our annual Mahikeng Volleyball

108 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Volleyball

VOLLEYBALL 2ND TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Raeesa Boodoo,
Jessica da Silva, Nomsa Mahlangu,
Unako Dubula, Reagile Nkadimeng,
Tumelo Mokolane, Lethabo Matlonye,
Mariya Il’ina
Front Row (L-R): Mercedes Singh,
Gonste Ledwaba, Mrs Y Jackson,
Kimera Nicole Naidoo (Captain), Nelisa Pamla
VOLLEYBALL 3RD TEAM
Absent: Kiara Chetty
Back Row (L-R): Jabulile Hlalethoa,
Precious Sabeka, Ayla Inggs, Milla Lakić,
Tristan Behr (Captain), Bulumko Lebese Mase,
Tlalane Ntlatlapa
Front Row (L-R): Najmah Kamedien,
Nolitha Mrwata, Mrs Y Jackson, Anja Grobler,
Claire Dreyer

VOLLEYBALL U16A & B TEAM
Absent: Simoné Snyman, Lihle Motsa
Back Row (L-R): Thato Loate (Captain),
Asante Tshwane, Ezabelle Els, Jessica du Toit,
Mmapula Mosia, Samukelisiwe Thwala
Front Row (L-R): Palesa Selepe, Charnice Rorke,
Mrs Y Jackson, Saalihah Mohungoo, Karabo Malete

The Iris 109

PHSG 1902–2016

Volleyball VOLLEYBALL U14A TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Mia Cloete, Chantelle van Tonder,
110 The Iris Priscilla Munganga, Yirishka Pillay, Nimesha Venkatas,
Uloshia Kgwedi, Leago Magagula
PHSG 1902–2016 Front Row (L-R): Didi Modiba, Leslen Ash,
Mrs Y Jackson, Thato Tumogole, Sibusisiwe Dyer
VOLLEYBALL U14B TEAM
Absent: Reatile Nkadimeng, Talia Govender
Back Row (L-R): Bonolo Kgobane, Devika Ajith
Kumar, Tanika Pillay, Celeste Hendricks,
Celine Hendricks, Jana Bakovic, Kagiso Marishane
Front Row (L-R): Amahle Ndlovu, Jayde Pinto,
Mrs Y Jackson, Nothamsanqa Stephen,
Shylah Hepke
VOLLEYBALL U14C TEAM
Absent: Tlamelang Masemola
Back Row (L-R): Thandi Skosana, Boipelo Tsela,
Cayla Hartzenberg, Mia Hayes, Thato Makoetjie
Middle Row (L-R): Coni Espinoza Yupanqui,
Nadine Marrian, Skye Kershaw, Alessia Coetzee,
Buhle Khumalo, Reese Maitisa
Front Row (L-R): Uthimna Nape,
Alexia Lippi, Mrs Y Jackson,
Nolwazi Bosoga, Lesedi Ramushwana

Water Polo

Water Polo

WATER POLO 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Claudia da Cunha, Ashley Coetzee, Esmee van der Arend, Kendal Grant, Tayla Cromhout, Jade Haynes, Megan Grobler,
Cameron van den Berg
Front Row (L-R): Aspen Kurz Store, Abigail Smit, Jodi Steytler, Ms L Kloppers, Hayley Cooke, Tia Dupuy, Bella Gioia

Don't mess with the Water Polo Team, because we are tighter than our mommy, Ms Kloppers, we would not have been able to achieve
suits - which are four times too small.
From many early mornings to late evenings, getting into that the skills and knowledge that we have and know today. They went
swimming pool five days a week was not just to achieve our ultimate
summer body, but to ensure that we would have a water polo season well beyond the call of duty for us. They spent hours and hours,
to remember. It would also insure that the Girls’ High Water Polo
Team of 2016 would exit the pool at the end of the season, leaving no matter the weather conditions and no matter what time of day,
the other schools stunned…
We played many tournaments, two of which (the Old Mutual getting to know the team and encouraging us when we were ready
Cup held at Roedean and Saints Festival held at St Stithians) had
already started in the fourth term of 2015. to give up, reminding us why we play this sport. Our love and
Tournaments in 2016 included the Reef Cup, Aquatics Festival
and Old Petrian’s Tournament. At the Old Petrian’s tournament enthusiasm for the sport just strengthened with their dedication
we walked away victorious with the shield trophy.
Throughout the whole season we fought to decrease goal and inspirational coaching.
differences and multiply our wins. An excellent example of this was
our progress against St Mary’s Waverley - one of the strongest water Outside of school involvement, Jodi Steytler and Hayley
polo teams in the country. At the Old Mutual Tournament we lost
12-2 against St Mary’s and, only two weeks later, we played them Cooke played in the Gauteng Centrals Team at the SA Schools
again, losing with a score of only 8-2.
Without our amazing coach, Kelly Lidston, and our manager- Tournaments. They placed ninth overall. Jodi was also selected

for the Currie Cup Team in 2016 and Abigail Smit was a non-

travelling reserve.

In water polo you will not only be part of a team, but you

will be part of a sisterhood. You will form bonds with team

members and you will have inside jokes and sayings that no

one but your team will ever grasp. Our team is like family. We

are always there to pick each other up, both in and out of the

pool.

Jodi Steytler
Captain of Water Polo
The Iris 111
PHSG 1902–2016

Water Polo WATER POLO 2ND TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Jessica Blair, Dayna Binda,
112 The Iris Jodi Bartz, Rachel Price, Mia Shaul
Front Row (L-R): Alessia Bevilacqua,
PHSG 1902–2016 Ms L Kloppers, Jessica da Silva
WATER POLO U15B TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Fiona Tsang,
Kayla Bontekoning, Kara Prinsloo-Heyns,
Mia Janse van Rensburg, Elke du Toit,
Kalilah Dippenaar, Jenna Anderson, Nicole Smith
Front Row (L-R): Ms I Rademeyer, Kelsey Prost,
Shannon Busacker, Brooklin Sofianos,
Michael Booysen, Monica Martins, Ms L Kloppers

WATER POLO U14C TEAM
Absent: Aileen White, Andrea Schoonraad,
Ashley Manley, Boitumelo Mogashea, Claudia
Haasbroek, Erin Reid, Gia Sargenti, Hannah
Mitchell, Ila Fischer, Jade Kuhn, Jenna Myer,
Jojo Agaze, Kaylin Burke, Kyra de Gray Birch,
Lara Holtzkampf, Megan Crabtree,
Nicole van Niekerk, Paisley Schmidt, Rachel Meyer,
Tameryn-Lee Bezuidenhoudt, Taylor Muller,
Tyla Brand
Back Row (L-R): Aimee Wilson, Courtney Kaplan,
Tayla Wood, Julia Martinez, Lara Kuipers,
Malaika Masogo, Angelique Teixeira, Emma Bartz,
Morgan van der Linde
Middle Row (L-R): Daniella Lee Ming-Yesca,
Jenna Pavely, Chloë Hawkins, Shylah Hepke,
Camille Nakhal, Marta Jhina, Myrren Wallace,
Erin Collings, Lauryn Letcher, Nina McHardy
Front Row (L-R): Jamie McHardy, Zoë Gurschl,
Mia Cloete, Ms L Kloppers, Giséle Angyalossy,
Courtney Moss, Emma Learmont

Cultural Highlights

Cultural Highlights

The Iris 113

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Cultural Organisers

CULTURAL ORGANISERS
Absent: Mrs V Hohls (Orchestra), Mr M Fourie (Chordettes), Mrs J Venter (Marimbas)
Back Row (L-R): Ms T Goyns (House plays), Ms D Dugmore (Choir Manager), Ms K Gerber (Saxophone Ensemble), Mr W Smit (Debating Model UN),
Mrs J Greenberg (Art), Mrs N van Wyk (Flute Ensemble)
Front Row (L-R): Ms E Russell (House Plays), Mrs T Hellberg (Guitar group), Ms D Cooper (Public Speaking), Mrs B du Toit (HOD Culture),
Mrs J Cÿrus ( Debating SACEE), Mrs D Glover (Rhythmony), Mrs M Ford (Orchestra)

Four Schools' Concert

114 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Night at the Proms

Night at the Proms

The Iris 115

PHSG 1902–2016

Music

Choir

116 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Absent: Katinka Sik, Zandi Dinwayo , Kelly Lucas, Tshimallo Mnisi, Danielle Oelofse, Alexandra Savvas, Christine Dickson, Anja Grobler, Angie Jardim, Busisiwe Mathe
Back Row (L-R): Kia Monyokolo, Basetsana Khanya, Lawrentia Thahane, Kristin Katzin, Unathi Khamali, Mia Janse van Rensburg, Emma-Jayne Wright, Thato Legodi, Khensani Shibambo,
Cara Janse van Noordwyk, Khumo Lekabe, Marcail Wragg
5th Row (L-R): Khanya Petje, Kemoratile Motjelele, Katlego Kabola, Boikokobetso Ramashija, Kara Prinsloo-Heyns, Gabriella Sigalas, Amy Serfontein, Terrell Mbokota, Lelethu Nokele, Margot Haskins,
Anke Harmse, Kendra Wilkinson, Neo Nkhumane, Ofiloe Nkadimeng, Jemina Luis, Paballo Maubane
4th Row (L-R): Ms T Olivier (Accompanist), Keabetswe Lekaba, Devika Ajith Kumar, Kiara van Wyk, Orea Tshiamu, Tori Fossett, Lara Gouws, Unako Dubula, Keentswe Magodielo, Mmamphale Ramatsetse,
Sbusile Mhlanga, Motsi Macheka, Bontle Theo, Jessica Guimarães, Likando Kamuwonga, Kgodiso Tloane, Tarisai Machoba, Skye de Bruyn, Ms D Dugmore
3rd Row (L-R): Mr S Gericke (Conductor), Tumisho Makoti, Alexia Wheatley, Dimakatso Maponya, Lungile Molubi, Blessings Baloyi, Thabang Bapela, Langelihle Sitsha, Buhlebenkosi Mgwenya,
Orefile Mabote, Celesté Mnguni, Chantelle Tseka, Kamo Makgwathana, Naa Shidaa Mills, Tanya Goxo, Benzile Mntambo, Phenyo Kgasi, Ms E Lubie
2nd Row (L-R): Nolwazi Dludla, Tshegofatso Chokoe, Nomhle Masina, Thato Loate, Oregaugetse Sepeng, Leovan Scott, Yolo Luke, Zoë Ten Krooden, Jenna Paveley, Vevina Scott, Tameryn-Lee Bezuidenhoudt,
Lehakoe Nyangintsimbi, Nandi Gumbi, Khutso Maloka, Reratiloe Sekoto, Mbali Mahlaka, Orapeleng Mampane
Front Row (L-R): Maricelle Immelman (Head), Neo Maepa, Trisha-Lee Moses, Mashoto Tsagae, Tshepang Mabuela, Bokang Mphuthi, Tintswalo Ngobeni, Caitlyn Wragg, Keneilwe Mmako, Didi Modiba,
Oratile Mokgoko, Busi Dyer, Phili Memela, Onke Klaas, Noko Makatu, Uthimna Nape, Phenyo Mokwena, Phumzile Mukhari (Deputy Head)

Music

Choir

2016 has been a year of great change for the Senior Choir. The performances and changes this year. Another thank you is given
choir decided not to take part in the ATKV Choral Competition, to to Mr Gericke, our conductor, for continuing to make choir
but did participate in other choral events. The annual choral wonderful as he always has and for ensuring that our standard of
Eisteddfod, Night at the Proms, the Four Schools’ Festival, the music is always exceptional. To my Vice-head of Choir, Phumi,
Boys’ High Choir social, the St Albans and Affies Choir social thank you for your unwavering support throughout this year
and a UP Youth Choir Choral Festival are just some of the many and for always having a smile that can cheer up anyone.
concerts we took part in during the year. In the middle of this year, Finally, to my doves of the Senior Choir: always remember that
the decision was made to join the Junior and Senior choirs into you will have a family in the choir and that you can get lost in
one choir that would be named the Girls’ High Choir. The first the music if you ever need to escape from life for a little while.
joint rehearsal was held after the Inter-house Athletics in June and ‘When words fail, music speaks’ – Hans Christian Andersen
the new choir, consisting of approximately 100 singers, got off to a Maricelle Immelman
great start. Head of Choir
I would like to thank Ms Dugmore, our new liaison teacher, for all
her time spent and love given and for supporting the choir in all its

SIMFONIA JUVENTI UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA YOUTH CHOIR
Phumzile Mukhari Absent: Airyn Goodbrand, Omphile Motsemane,
Back Row (L-R): Kelly Lucas, Paballo Maubane, Maricelle Immelman (Vice-head),
Blessings Baloyi, Tshiamo Ramafi
Front Row (L-R): Langa Sitsha, Keneilwe Mmako, Lynadia Samuel

Orchestra

2016 has been another exciting year for the PHSG Orchestra. mingle with and perform alongside musicians from our three
With almost seventy members, it was sometimes difficult to
contain the enthusiasm we all shared when there was a concert to neighbouring high schools.
be performed in the near future.
We played at several concerts throughout the year, including the Of course, none of this would have been possible without

Valentine’s Day Concert and the Mothers’ Day Concert in guidance. Thanks to Mrs B du Toit for being our number one
honour of our moms at home and those at school.
The orchestra also performed at the annual Night at the fan and for all her support. Thanks to Mrs Ford for organising
Proms Concert, where girls got to dress up and look
fabulous, while playing pieces such as ‘Adiemus’ and monthly rehearsal schedules, concert tickets and for signing
‘Lord of the Dance’. This concert as well as our visit
to Tshwane Haven served to raise money and help all those games cards.
out the children’s home.
One of the biggest events we had the And of course, a huge thanks to Mrs Hohls for all the
privilege to be part of was the
Four Schools’ Concert, where effort and time she put in, for being
our orchestra had a chance to
our musical inspiration and for

always believing in us. She

has made the orchestra the

success that it is, and her

kindness and dedication are

greatly appreciated.

Tatiana Blecher
Head of Orchestra
The Iris 117
PHSG 1902–2016

Music

Orchestra

118 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Absent: Mrs V Hohls (Conductor), Mrs M Ford
Back Row (L-R): Phumzile Mukhari, Lexie Reeler, Deirdré van Niekerk, Isabella da Silva, Khona Shabalala, Elke du Toit, Natascha Janse van Rensburg, Megan van Schalkwyk, Airyn Goodbrand
5th Row (L-R): Yebin Cho, Antonia Chela, Amy Serfontein, Claire Angel, Basetsana Mamogale, Tamrin Slager, Louise Burdett, Kendra Wilkinson, Marcail Wragg, Lufuno Sigwadi
4th Row (L-R): Lennie Elsenbroek, Sarah Vogetseder, Khanyisile Mbukwane, Alice-Jane Marais, Christy du Preez, Justine King, Stacey Sapsford, Chantelle van Tonder, Heejin Jung, Megan van Niekerk
3rd Row (L-R): Micaela Lima, Abigail Smit, Loraine Shuttleworth, Chanté Fortune, Zeenat Salie, Milan Dowlath, Alexia Wheatley, Callia Nicolaides, Juanice Appollus, Christine van Niekerk
2nd Row (L-R): Kathleen Racionzer, Riyazah du Toit, Lavanya van Wyk, Nastassja Biccard, Tshilidzi Mabadzhabadzha, Aveshni Govender, Nandi Gumbi, Tshiamo Ramafi, Rebecca van Heerden
Front Row (L-R): Emma van Schalkwyk, Yolanti du Toit, Ye-eun Jeong, So-Jung La (Vice-head), Tatiana Blecher (Head), Jacqueline James, Yebin Im, Firdaus Salie, Leigh Cruywagen

Music

Absent: Sihle Nkonki, Masego Selemela, Kimberleigh Majola
Back Row (L-R): Amogelang Mabote, Katlego Moteane, Paballo Maubane, Mylo van Straaten, Lerato Mathiso, Kuhle Besman, Gwyneth Kufakunesu,
Blessings Baloyi, Nicolene Dube
Middle Row (L-R): Lynadia Samuel, Sbusile Mhlanga, Zenaye Skosana, Malebo Ramaotsoa, Thembalethu Jiyane, Grace Yav, Ntombi Khumalo
Front Row (L-R): Rabi Mabilo, Zandi Dinwayo (Head), Ms D Glover, Mr M Ndlovu (Conductor and Director), Kamohelo Motsoeneng (Vice-head),
Kiese Mpasa

Rhythmony

2016 has been an absolutely wonderful journey for the Rhythmony under the leadership of Mr Ndlovu. Sir, I will always cherish and
girls. Starting off with new members and being a bigger choir than carry your anchored words of wisdom with me.
usual certainly brought some exciting challenges. However, through What is a bunch of girls without a mommy? Mrs Glover, I will
our mutual love for music, the year proved to be a walk in the park always remember your utmost belief in us and your patience, as
as the choir swiftly transitioned to a sisterhood with an unbreakable it shows the amount of love you have for our choir. Ladies, I have
bond. We became a complete family with Mr Ndlovu and Mrs enjoyed every moment shared with you, and every performance.
Glover whose guidance and support sometimes goes unnoticed, I commend you all for your commitment and cooperation in
but is always highly appreciated. I honestly believe that I will always the group this year. Thank you for making me realise that being
remember Tuesdays as the day of the week on which each member is Head of Rhythmony is not just a duty but a privilege. It has been
given the opportunity to be groomed in excellence, taught resilience an honour to be part of this ensemble. May it continue to do
and to obtain another ounce of belief in the power of creating amazing things
beautiful music. That very opportunity has made a colossal amount Zandi Dinwayo
of room for growth in each of the Rhythmony ladies’ lives. It has Head of Rhythmony
been an incredible honour being a part of this prestigious choir
The Iris 119

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Saxophone Ensemble

Absent: Hanán Jeppie meet and listen to Alastair Penmann, an
Back Row (L-R): Jacqueline James, Kathleen Racionzer award-winning British saxophonist who
Front Row (L-R): Ms K Gerber, Ye-Eun Jeong (Head), Mrs J Greenberg combines the saxophone and electronics in
his music.
The PHSG Saxophone Ensemble, formerly known as ‘The Blue Tie Saxophone Ensemble’, The PHSG Saxophone Ensemble performed
is a newly established group under the guidance of Ms Gerber. the pop song ‘Shake it off ’ at the Valentine’s
In 2016 our ensemble performed at various concerts and attended master classes from Concert and ‘Braveheart: For the Love of
professional saxophonists. We were active participants at the 2016 National Saxophone a Princess’, accompanied by visuals of the
Symposium where we attended workshops by well-known South African saxophonists, movie, as well as the ‘James Bond Theme
Matthew Lombard and Karen Devroop. In April 2016 we had the opportunity to Song’ at the Mothers’ Day Concert. They
were also busting ghosts with the movie hit
‘Ghostbusters’ at the Night at the Proms. At
the festivities of Spring Fair they entertained
guests at the German Coffee Shop, after
which they also performed at Carols by
Candlelight, held at the end of the year.
The PHSG Saxophone Ensemble was also
invited to play with Steve Dyer in one of his
own compositions at the yearly Boarders’
Dinner. This was a wonderful opportunity
to work with Mr Dyer, as well as his son,
Bokani Dyer, winner of the 2011 Standard
Bank Young Artist Jazz Piano Award.
We are looking forward to many more
exciting performances and hope to expand
into a larger group in the next year.
The Saxophone Ensemble

Flute Ensemble

Front Row (L-R): Tshiamo Ramafi, Mrs N van Wyk, Tatiana Blecher, Abigail Smit

120 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Big Band

2016 was a short yet meaningful year for Absent: Jessy Bule, Ashton Flowerday, Danielle Grant
Big Band. Auditions were held and we Back Row (L-R): Tshiamo Ramafi, Zeenat Salie, Rebekah Müller, Marcail Wragg,
gained talented musicians who contributed Khanyisile Mbukwane
immensely to our band. We started the year Front Row (L-R): Leigh Cruywagen, Firdaus Salie, Mrs N van Wyk (Manager),
by having the privilege of playing ‘Don’t Look Abigail Smit, Yerang Oh
Down’, a musical composition written by
Airyn Goodbrand (a Grade 12 learner). We
performed it at the Valentine’s Day Concert
with Airyn on vocals. The performance was
a huge success.
I would like to extend a big thank you to
Mrs van Wyk for dedicating her afternoons
and being an amazing mentor. Thank you,
Ms Leong, for guiding and accompanying
us at the concert. To my right hand (wo)
man, Abigail, thank you for assisting and
supporting me throughout the year. Lastly,
to every single band member, thank you for
your commitment and optimism. It was an
absolute privilege to be a part of this exciting
group. Good luck for future events.
Firdaus Salie
Head of Big Band

String Ensemble

Absent: Rebekah Miller musicians remained. In 2015 we were invited
Back Row (L-R): Milan Dowlath, Christy de Preez, Zeenat Salie, Firdaus Salie to play at Emperor’s Palace at the Sounds of
Front Row (L-R): Rebecca van Heerden, Mrs T Olivier, Leigh Cruywagen Celebration Concert. Initially, we felt like
fish out of water. Gone were the classical
The String Ensemble started in 2014 by baptism of fire. Who would have thought instruments with which we were familiar.
that we would start this year by playing ‘Eine Kleine Nachtmusik’ by Mozart? Over Instead we were surrounded by bagpipes,
the course the year, our limits were tested, ensuring that only the keenest and strongest steel pans, marimbas and traditional Greek
instruments. After long rehearsals, we formed
relationships with the other musicians and
found that we fit right in. The mass item that
we played together was enjoyed by many.
One of the highlights of 2016 was performing
at the Linder Auditorium, Johannesburg,
as part of the Kingsmead Orchestra and
Ensemble Festival. We were by far the smallest
group participating, but quality over quantity
prevailed.
We have grown from unsure amateurs into
fearless musicians who can play any piece of
music. We have all formed tight bonds and
lasting relationships that will stay with us in all
our future endeavours.
Leigh Cruywagen
Head of String Ensemble

The Iris 121

PHSG 1902–2016

Music

Marimba Band

Marimbas were introduced to the school Back Row (L-R): Busi Nyika, Ronnel Masemola, Cassidy Pillay, Lelethu Tlou, Caitlin Gaylard
at the start of this year. We were grateful Front Row (L-R): Keneilwe Letsoalo, Lunga Masondo, Ms J Venter (Manager),
to have so many girls audition, but sadly Nandipha Nolwalane, Aobakwe Visagie
only eighteen could be selected. Every
Wednesday, the junior Marimba Band, Back Row (L-R): Lesedi Mampa, Claire Gaylard, Ms J Venter (Manager), Mmaphale Ramatsetse,
called Ukhuni Beaters, and the senior band, Nandi Gumbi
known as Thululalele, would meet, practise Front Row (L-R): Helena Ahiba, Galaletsang Galane, Princess Boshielo, Nandipha Suteka
and always leave laughing, dancing and
humming to a new beat, as if under a spell. marimbas, the bands have evolved beautifully and have found the joyful rhythm in
At each session, the girls have fun, enjoy the music they play. As Mr Ndlovu, our beloved marimba conductor, always reminds
trying to master the rhythm of each new us, African music is happy music.
song they learn and marvel at the wonderful Ms J Venter
atmosphere the marimbas create. As one of Teacher liaison of Marimba Band
the senior band members noted, ‘Playing
a marimba is unlike playing any other
instrument. All you need is time, dedication
and a good spirit.’
The bands have performed at the SICC
Concert, the Mothers’ Day Concert, Night
at the Proms, the Sports Awards Evening
and the Spring Fair Fashion Show. We have
also played at a few of our school assemblies.
The bands look forward to future
performances and are eager to showcase
their newfound talent on any possible
platform. From the first session, where faces
were as unfamiliar as the concept of playing

122 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Music

Ballroom

Back Row (L-R): Kelsey de Jongh, Gontse Ledwabo, Anya Lureman, Kristin Katzin, Tyla Gortland, Clara Minny,
Nomsa Twala, Rebecca Martin, Chelsea Roberts
3rd Row (L-R): Kamo Masango, Dominique Bothma, Erinn Simpson, Savina Popov, Jennifer Cazalet,
Tshegofatso Mathe, Isabella Gioia, Bronwyn Harmse, Lethabo Segokgo
2nd Row (L-R): Tiffeney Singh, Krisha Radia, Nothile Mphuthi, Shannon Forbes, Natasha Victor, Charissa Naudé,
Caitlyn Hilliard-Lomas, Kgothatso Motselele
Front Row (L-R): Hannah Snyman, Kirsty Sutton, Meghan Delaney, Mrs D Glover, Deirdré van Niekerk (Head),
Marcail Wragg, Jamie Wills

Chordettes

Back Row (L-R): Arielle Gibson, Tumisho Makoti, Kameryn Muffler, Gia Sargenti, Dani van Zyl, Phenyo Tlhoaele
Front Row (L-R): Leovan Scott, Jean-Marie Rossouw, Mr M Fourie, Lexie Reeler, Kgaugelo Mkumbeni

The Iris 123

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

SOUND AND LIGHTING
Absent: Sarah Trowsdale
Back Row (L-R): Hala Wagi-Allah, Louisa Anyimadu, Basetsana Mamogale, Larah Scurr, Khona Shabalala, Jade Gower-Jackson, Ponahalo Mojapelo,
Gabriella Lucas, Caitlin Holtzkampf
Middle Row (L-R): Kamohelo Motsoeneng, Derryn Wenhold, Sbusile Mhlanga, Naledi Sekoati, Caitlyn Alapatt, Gontse Ledwaba, Mmopi Nkuna,
Caitlyn Hilliard-Lomas, Mbali Nzimande
Front Row (L-R): Misha de Beer, Langa Sitsha, Nombulelo Ntuli, Ms C Greenwood, Lili Smit, Krisha Radia, Katli Moteane

USHERS
Absent: Mtali Nzimande, Louisa Anyimadu
Back Row (L-R): Happy Maumela, Thato Ramodibe, Gabriella Lucas, Palesa Sebego, Keamogetswe Lepule, Bonolo Moikanyane
Middle Row (L-R): Shereen Duba, Tumi Malefo, Desiree Mahlangu, Kamogelo Maganyele, Naledi Mafela, Bontle Nkopodi
Front Row (L-R): Keneilwe Letsoalo, Emmerentia Tshiovha, Tisetso Phadu, Ms C Greenwood, Nthabiseng Matsimela, Kamogelo Masango, Mamello Malete

124 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Debating

DEBATING SENIOR
Back Row (L-R): Buhlebenkosi
Mgwenya, Mrs J Cÿrus,
Grace Mngadi, Mrs B du Toit,
Tania Twinoburyo
Front Row (L-R):
Shannon Wardlaw (Captain),
Nolitha Mrwata, Stacey Sapsford
(Vice-captain)

DEBATING JUNIOR
Back Row (L-R): Vanietta
Naidoo, Amber Beeforth,
Mrs J Cÿrus, Daniella Yav,
Mrs B du Toit, Katinka Sik,
Buhlebenkosi Mgwenya
Front Row (L-R): Neo
Maepa, Oregaugetse Sepeng,
Shannon Wardlaw (Captain),
Stacey Sapsford (Vice-captain),
Michiko Ceza

This year was an exciting year for the Debating Society. We and nineteenth out of fifty teams at the Gauteng Champs.
competed in World School styles and British Parliamentary At the National All Girls’ Festival our team placed second to
Debating style in several leagues, tournaments and friendly Durban Girls High and individually Shannon ranked third,
debates. The juniors have already had quite the debating Stacey ranked fourth and Grace ranked eighth. On the British
experience as we entered two teams into the SACEE league. Parliamentary side, Grace and Shannon entered the GSBD BP
One team scored high enough to compete at the Gauteng Tournament in July, achieving second place. Shannon tied for
Championships where our brave and willing team, consisting third place and Grace ranked eighth.
of Amber Beeforth, Buhle Mgwenya and Katinka Sik, placed Special thanks to our coaches, Chris Hoyem and Warren
eleventh out of fifty-six teams. This allowed them to break Gertzen, for the hard work and long hours spent training us.
through to the plate rounds for the top sixteen teams to battle for Although we missed several trophies by irritating margins, I
Gold. They were knocked out in the semi-finals, but were also our am confident the team that I leave behind is one to be feared
first junior team to make it this far. by every other school. I look forward to many wins in 2017.
Our first team, consisting of Shannon Wardlaw, Stacey Sapsford, Shannon Wardlaw
Grace Mngadi and Tania Twinoburyo, became the next Dream Head of Debating
Team. Together they ranked second in the preliminary rounds
The Iris 125

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Model UN

Absent: Hawa Ibrahim
Back Row (L-R): Tshegofatso Matlou, Reese Maitisa, Malengete Ngoatje, Tania Twinoburyo, Jo-Anne Mahlobo, Meagan Picton, Franella Sakata,
Omolemo Baloyi
Front Row (L-R): Mrs B du Toit, Zené Witbooi, Kate Kabe (Head), Chipo Hansungule, Mr W Smit

Since the launch of the Model United Nations Society (MUN), least for our girls) the special invitation from the presidency to
it has not only grown in size, but also swelled with success. meet Drake in Houghton.
Separated from the bigger debating group, under the leadership Based on the growth and success of the Model UN Society
of Kate Kabe and Mr Smit, the group has nearly tripled in size, this year, one can only eagerly await what amazing goals will be
allowing PHSG to enter more teams in MUN events. This year achieved next year.
has seen almost ten competitions, numerous important topic Kate Kabe
talks and round-table discussions about pressing issues such as Head of MUN
climate change and violence against women. In the meantime,
a division of the MUN that focuses on environmental issues
has entered four research papers for the annual Environment
Sustainability Project.
The definite highlights of this year were the numerous Best
Delegation and Best Speaker awards we brought home; the
wonderful opportunity for five of our girls to attend the week-
long Young Leaders Conference during the June holidays; the
group’s declaration based on the Sustainable Development Goals
being sent through to the Model UN conference in New York;
Kate handing over the declaration herself at the DIRCO; the
special invitation to hear Bill Gates address the youth at the
Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture and lastly (but certainly not

126 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Culture

Public Speaking

Absent: Caitlin Schröder-Beneke, Hawa Ibrahim, Neo Maepa, Celine Tshefu, Mokgethoa Mampe, Ricky Ramukosi, Keletso Maboitshego, Neo Malahlela,
Kelebogile Ratsoana
Back Row (L-R): Jo-Anne Mahlobo, Anathi Soga, Thatiso Moyo, Grace Mngadi, Mazvita Muchenje, Abigail Ashfield, Caitlin Alapatt
4th Row (L-R): Langelihle Sitsha, Keamogetse Monama, Motatso Mongalo, Lucia Mkanda, Khanyisile Zikalala, Palesa Dube, Siphosihle Msongweni.
Unathi Kanti, Dimakatso Maponya
3rd Row (L-R): Nandi Gumbi, Orapeleng Mampane, Dominique van Staden, Nthabiseng Matsimela, Kate Kabe, Aqila Rab, Resego Matshediso,
Reratiloe Sekoto
2nd Row (L-R): Derryn Wenhold, Krisha Radia, Ashleigh Wenhold, Malengete Ngoatje, Oregaugetse Sepeng, Gosiame Mosiane, Inutu Kamungoma,
Tshilidzi Mabadzhabadzha, Jennifer de Beer
Front Row (L-R): Tyla Laka, Lesedi Bogopa, Nandipha Suteka, Olive Olusegun (Head), Ms D Cooper, Masego Ramabu (Vice-head), Omolemo Baloyi,
Tshegofatso Matlou, Kholofelo Mothoa

To speak is to live. To speak is to share your fears and your dreams, your where she impressed everyone with her brilliantly humorous
opinions and your ideas. At Public Speaking 2016 we accomplished speech. She scored extremely high marks in all categories, even
this. scoring 95% from some adjudicators.
The year began with a positive start, thanks to the enthusiastic and We are grateful for and proud of every single girl in this growing
passionate Grade 8 girls. At the end of the first term we hosted our club. Nothing will be able to replace the fun moments of
very first Grade 8 showcase where the Grade 8s presented speeches fellowship in Ms Cooper’s classroom on a hot Monday afternoon.
to their families and friends. It was a pleasure for everyone to see how The stories and the laughs we shared on the combis and buses will
these young ladies had developed into confident and gifted speakers. always be cherished memories to all of us. To Ms Cooper, the heart
During term two we travelled to Durban and Bloemfontein to show and soul of Public Speaking, thank you for being so passionate
what Girls’ High Public Speakers could do. We are so proud of our and dedicated to our club. Your humour is contagious and your
Grade 9 speaker, Nandi Gumbi, who won first place as a junior smile easily melts away the jitters of stage fright. To Mrs B. du
speaker at Eunice. She and numerous junior and senior Public Toit, the Head of Culture, you have supported our club from the
Speakers walked away with gold and silver certificates from every very beginning. Thank you so much for taking time out of your
competition. Later in the year, Tshilidzi Mabadzhabadzha competed busy schedule to support us cheerily at competitions. To all the
in the Emalahleni English Orators competition and placed second Public Speaking girls: to speak is not an easy feat, but you have
in the country. chosen to delight in trumpeting your voice to the world. There
Public Speaking also made great strides at the National All Girls’ is nothing of which you are not capable. We strongly believe that
Festival this year. Gosiame Mosiane challenged herself by competing you ladies will only get better and better.
in a largely senior division and she shone, especially in her interpretive Thank you for making this year worthwhile.
reading which was delightful to watch. Olive Olusegun was a Olive Olusegun and Masego Ramabu
powerhouse, making it to the final round of the unprepared speeches, Head and Vice-head of Public Speaking

The Iris 127

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

Clubs and Societies

HEADS OF CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
Back Row (L-R): Racheal Ngyende, Megan Rikkers, Pearl Lutwama, Maricelle Immelman, Tatiana Blecher
3rd Row (L-R): Josephine Martin, Comfort Mangisa, Jamie Wills, Lufuno Sigwadi, Kurston Fortuin, Tshego Mathe, Leago Mamabolo
2nd Row (L-R): Leago Mangolele, Kate Kabe, Shannon Wardlaw, Simoné van der Merwe, Alice-Jane Marais, Eternel Lonji, Nikhila Moodley, Lili Smit
Front Row (L-R): Olive Olusegun, Naledi Pooe, Avril de Nation, Yebin Cho, Zandi Dinwayo, Firdaus Salie, Laurentia Bopela

Art Club Some are still under the impression that bridges are built:
others believe that poker is learnt. But what is it that really
The Art Club meets Thursday afternoons in our school’s own Art happens on Tuesday afternoons in room 57?
Centre. It has always been a sanctuary for junior girls to come and learn Memories are made.
some creative skills in a well-equipped environment – skills that would This year has been an enjoyable year and, as I was the only
later be ignored completely while girls throw paint, let loose and express matric in the club, I was able to do something I never would
their interests and emotions creatively. This year we had an eager bunch have done had I been in the company of others in my
and a packed schedule of projects for them with which to experiment. grade: make friends in other grades. The jokes and - most
Our small family of expressionists and modernists had the opportunity importantly - food shared have made this year fun for all the
to draw various landscapes and portraits with weird themes in Bridge players.
various mediums, including pencil, chalk and charcoal, and pen ink. The number of new players was more than I ever could have
They experienced negative art and painted galaxies with sponges. expected. I hope that the girls in the school will continue to
Together we painted aprons for the Heads, made fashion pieces out of show as much interest in the club in the years to come.
recycled goods, created illusion art, made embossing prints and learnt Our annual friendly match against Pretoria Boys High School
stippling. We even had a short photography lesson and watched an did not take place this year, however, this has given the girls
artistic movie about the famous painter, Van Gogh. Special thanks more time to perfect their skills and be ready for next year.
go to the Vice-head of Art Club, Jade, for all her hard work holding Thank you to all the players, my Vice-captain, Lucia Jardim,
up the fort, creating the project ideas and concepts (including one Coach Katy and Mrs Cowan for an enjoyable year. You have
theme called Jade) and the countless administration. Thank you to truly made my matric year an unforgettable one.
Ms Van Niekerk as well for all the love and support. Naledi Pooe
I am confident that the Art Club will live on as a small space filled with Captain of Bridge
big ideas for all who wish to join.
Shannon Wardlaw Contact Club
Head of Art Club
2016 has been a successful year for Contact Club. Under
Bridge

128 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

BRIDGE
Absent: Lucia Jardim (Vice-captain)
Back Row (L-R): Akeeda Ally Buccus, Pavishka Govender, Favour Oluwamakinde, Dominique Steeman, Tarisai Machoba, Owethu Shabalala
Middle Row (L-R): Dominique Bothma, Obakeng Mahlako, Angie Jardim, Orefile Mabote, Genevieve Smith, Ashwari Pillay, Palesa Mopeli
Front Row (L-R): Sandy Soe, Naledi Pooe (Captain), Mrs J Cowan, Ms K Godfrey, Samantha van der Merwe, Philisiwe Memela

the leadership of Mrs van Heerden, our annual Jersey Display was a Head of Contact Club
massive success. We were able to distribute over one thousand jerseys
to various charities all over Pretoria. For the first time ever, with the
help of Ackermans, Monument Park, we were able to distribute Drama Club
brand new clothes to various non-profit organisations.
Our main focus this year was to make a real difference to a specific Drama Club was taken to the next level this year when we
charity, Lethabo le Khutso, a home for adults with autism, by decided not only to continue with our usual talent building
visiting them regularly. Through this, each of us have built a special exercises, but also to put on two spectacular plays. This year,
relationship with the beneficiaries through various activities such as we divided the girls into two drama groups: group one on
planting flowers, indoor and outdoor games and pool parties. We Mondays and group two on Wednesdays. This enabled us to
also visited a Pretoria home for sick, abandoned and disabled infants focus on each girl and her talents as each group was relatively
and children and found it a deeply rewarding experience. We have small. We have seen so much growth from each group. The
grown more conscious of the injustices around us and more grateful girls have helped one another come out of their shells and have
for the opportunities presented to us. The infants and children from all grown immensely in their acting abilities. Although we
this particular home not only lent our girls their time but allowed us like to keep the activities and exercises fun, we do focus on
to borrow their smiles and cheerful spirits too. certain aspects of theatre that will help girls not only on the
Avril de Nation stage, but in life too. The two plays were a wonderful success.
Monday’s group performed a play (written by Girls’ High girls
a few years ago) called Waiting Insane: How Precious Sithole
Lost her Stapler. In this comedy each girl adopted her role
with such talent and energy. Wednesday’s group performed
The Fiction Board and they too awed us with their abilities and
enthusiasm. All in all, the past year has been an overwhelming
success, enjoyed by both the directors and the actresses.
Megan Rikkers and Callista Duursema
Head and Vice-head of Drama Club

First Aid

This year has been a challenging and exciting year for First Aid.

We were always sure to be on top form for all sporting events, as

this year the number of First Aiders wasTlheessItrhisan1t2ha9t of last year.
PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

FIRST AID
Back Row (L-R): Gontse Ledwaba, Ponahalo Mojapelo, Jade Gower-Jackson, Louisa Anyimadu, Alice-Jane Marais
Middle Row (L-R): Mbali Nzimande, Mmakosha Modiba, Tiffany Padiachy, Thando Mbonani, Thato Ramodibe, Thando Mahlangu, Kiese Mpasa,
Nombulelo Ntuli
Front Row (L-R): Orapeleng Kgampe, Tshegofatso Matlou, Naledi Pooe, Mrs M Marais, Basetsana Mamogale, Daniela Casieri, Kgalalelo Koloti

However, this highlighted the need for more First Aiders and it was only helping their Grade 8 tutees to cope with the newly acquired
exciting to see the number of girls who were interested in being a part workload, but also in being a welcoming smile and someone to
of this family. I hope that this enthusiasm will continue for many talk to when needed. A huge thank you goes to Mrs Lubie for
more years to come. being willing to step in as the liaison teacher for House Tutoring
Thanks to all the First Aid ladies who made this year a memorable while Ms Ungerer was on maternity leave earlier this year. A great
one. I would also like to thank Sr Stephanie, Sr Nicolene, Ms Dorlas vote of thanks must also be given to Ms Ungerer who is always
and Mrs Marais for all their guidance and support. Without them, willing to help with any matter that might arise within House
this year would not have been the success that it was. Tutoring and who always presents a solution to any problem.
Lastly, thank you to my amazing Vice-head, Basi Mamogale, who Lastly, to my Vice-head of House Tutoring, Alexia, I must offer
made this year truly unforgettable. my sincerest thanks for stepping up to any task presented to her
Naledi Pooe without complaint. It was a joy working with everyone involved.
Head of First Aid Maricelle Immelman
Head of House Tutoring
House Tutoring
Library
The House Tutors have always been a small group of extremely caring,
dedicated members of the Pretoria High School for Girls family and The library is a place where people of all colour, shape and size can
this year was no exception. The tutors were highly successful in not come together and share their love of books.
This year, Tiger Kloof School from North West came to visit our
130 The Iris library. From this school we learnt that not many schools are
privileged to have a library like ours that is fully equipped with
PHSG 1902–2016 computers and a comprehensive collection of books for leisure
reading or researching purposes. They taught us to appreciate our
resources.
Thanks to the dedicated team of Library Monitors. They give up
their time to ensure that the school library is always available to

the girls during school hours and after school as well.
Thank you to Ms Muller, our school librarian. Ms Muller

Clubs and Societies

ensures that we have the best books in the library and that all the Head and Vice-head of Library Monitors
books are in good shape. Without her we would not have a steady-
flowing library system or the services that are available to us. Museum
Last, but no least, thank you to the PHSG pupils who have respected
our library and assisted in ensuring that the library is always well The Museum is more than just the place where collected
utilised. memorabilia is housed. It is the preserver of the history, traditions
Lufuno Sigwadi and Kurston Fortuin and memories that past students shared at Pretoria High School for
Girls. As the time-keepers or Museum Monitors of the Museum
Club, we have had one of our best years yet. This year we opened
the museum once a week, giving many learners the opportunity to
visit the Museum. We also did presentations in assembly and set
up displays for the Old Girls’ Reunion in October. Some might
think that we only dust off dinosaur bones and ancient books, but
we strive to recreate the memories of the girls by making displays of
the pupils' years at Girls’ High. Just as we recreate past memories,
we create present memories at the museum. Our afternoons at the
museum are filled with fun in addition to the work. We are a family
and this is what makes us proud to be Museum Monitors.
Tshegofatso Mathe
Head of Museum Club

P e e r Counselling

In the very capable
and caring hands of
Mrs Godfrey, the
Peer Counselling
Committee of 2016
grew from strength
to strength. In the
wise words of Dean
Jackson, ‘Listening

The Iris 131

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies COMPUTOR MONITORS
Absent: Vuyi Hoboyi, Bakang Mlangeni,
Monitors Kgatsi Letsoalo, Louisa Anymadu, Thando Mbonani
Back Row (L-R): Sabrina Caldeira,
132 The Iris Maxine Milton, Jemima Luis, Tshego Mathe,
Mosé Lwayo, Ntokozo Ngcobo, Kirthi Jaimungal,
PHSG 1902–2016 Mrs A Muller (Manager)
Front Row (L-R): Kgothatso Motselele,
Amy Le, Emmerentia Tshiova, Tisetso Phadu,
Khutso Maloka, Olive Olusegun
LIBRARY MONITORS
Absent: Talia Moodley
Back Row (L-R): Flourish Oluwamakinde,
Annette Tsaku, Mia Shaul, Jojo Ogboro, Lerato Mathiso,
Chelsea Roberts
Middle Row (L-R): Prudence Mbokota,
Vaunietta Naidoo, Terrell Mbokota, Ivy Kagwisagye,
Ella Mosako, Lelethu Nokele, Boitumelo Malefo
Front Row (L-R): Chipo Hansungule,
Mabongi Nyalungu, Kurston Fortuin
(Vice-head), Mrs A Muller (Manager),
Lufuno Sigwadi (Head), Lukho Matu, Amy Le
MUSEUM MONITORS
Absent: Andile Mangisa
Back Row (L-R): Thabiso Mthombeni,
Oregolele Dibakwane, Ivy Kagwisagye, Sphesihle Mkhize,
Jade Gower-Jackson, Fendi Mampone, Shani Smit,
Kemisetso Phakathi, Boitumelo Phadi
Front Row (L-R): Sharna Moonsamy,
Tshegofatso Mathe (Head),
Mrs A Campbell-Atkins (Manager), Tisetso Phadu,
Onke Klaas

PHOTO MONITORS
Back Row (L-R): Mrs K Buckley, Lara Gouws,
Kameryn Muffler, Mrs A van Niekerk
Front Row (L-R): Nomsa Twala, Erin McKenna,
Khensani Shibambo

In the Limelight Clubs and Societies
Robotics
LABORATORY MONITORS
Absent: Tlou Lekgau, Amandla Mashigo,
Thato Makoetjie, Samantha van der Merwe,
Sascha Kacnik
Back Row (L-R): Téa Primmer,
Palesa Mopeli, Boipelo Tsela, Chevandré
Potts, Bonolo Kgobane, Usivile Giyose,
Buhle Khumalo, Ms E Russell (Manager)
Front Row (L-R): Boitumelo Phadu,
Emmerentia Tshiovha, Tamryn Logan
(Vice-head), Alice-Jane Marais (Head),
Naledi Mametse, Mmathabo Maredi

Absent: Dominique Steeman
Back Row (L-R): Jade Minnie,
Dashia Govender, Anke Harmse,
Amber Beeforth, Mmakgotso Nkwana,
Téa Primmer
Front Row (L-R): Ashton Flowerday,
Talia Moodley, Mrs J Cÿrus, Pearl
Lutwama, Sandy Soe
Absent: Dominique Steeman
Back Row (L-R): Lara Gouws, Christy
du Preez, Victoria Selby, Noa Anthony,
Habibah Fakey, Eve Musekiwa
Middle Row (L-R): Manushri Naidoo,
Antonia Mugisa, Peyton Beyleveld,
Amiksha Sujan, Kaylee Stella Harris,
Erin McKenna, Jacqueline James
Front Row (L-R): Ayo Ojo,
Mrs A Mjadu, Hinvira Sujan (Vice-head),
Jamie Will (Head), Mrs L van Heerden
(Manager), Caitlin Olivier

The Iris 133

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

is an art that requires attention over talent, spirit over ego and others through photos.
over self ’. This, I believe, is what every peer counsellor strove to do Our club members have displayed a wide range of ability, from
over the numerous afternoons that were dedicated to being a shoulder beginners, who are still learning all of the techniques and the
on which to cry. The Guidance Centre has been solidified as a place fundamentals of their cameras, to girls such as Britney Hand,
of solace for all girls, even the peer counsellors themselves. Stories, who has won competitions outside of school.
heartfelt tears and laughter are embedded within those four walls. Thank you to Ms Eaton for all of her passion and knowledge
In an effort to build support structures for the new Grade 8s, each that she brings to the sessions every week and thank you to
form class was allocated a Peer Counsellor. This proved successful Britney Hand for bringing all of her passion and skills to the
and helped the girls to adjust to the high school environment that club and helping me on a regular basis.
can sometimes be overwhelming. Friday meetings were filled with We have seen how the skills of the girls have improved and are
sweet treats, fun games and bonding that left all Peer Counsellors excited to see what the future brings.
feeling that they were part of a family. The annual intake of new Josephine Martin
Peer Counsellors starts with each applicant having to write an essay Head of Photography
motivating their intent to be a Peer Counsellor. The numerous essays
received by the girls who would like to be part of this marvellous Poetry Club
group of ladies shows that the spirit to help others is abundant in
PHSG. This spirit is nurtured by the Peer Counsellors and all that is Poetry club has served to be a safe haven for cultured ladies to
learnt is used to help those in need of it. I would like to thank all the root out societal conundrums, their personal experiences and
Peer Counsellors for excelling in the important role that they play at how they perceive themselves to be within conversation and
the schools. It was a great pleasure to work with Mrs Godfrey, all the rhyme. We engaged in a spectrum of controversial conversations
ladies and my Vice-head, Malaika, whose strength and support was on issues plaguing our contemporary world which fed the
much appreciated. I wish the Peer Counsellors of the future much inspiration of our weekly poems. I wanted the ladies to establish
success. authenticity, rawness and honesty in their writing, because
Racheal Ngyende a lot of the greatest poems are drenched those qualities. Mrs
Head of Peer Counselling Godfrey rooted for us through constructive criticisms and
healthy debate. She even dropped some bars and verses here,
Peer Tutoring there and every which way. With that being said, it is safe to say
that that was achieved and many of the ladies and I attended at
Being a Peer Tutor requires a lot of hard work and dedication. It the school’s Students’ Inter-cultural Club event as well as poetry
requires being willing to help others with their schoolwork, even slams outside of the school.
when faced with one’s own mountain of work. After we received Thank you for shedding light on my reign, Poetry Club 2016. I
an influx of learners requesting Tutors, our numbers ran low, but am proud of what we have overcome and achieved in 2016 and
luckily we did not have to turn away many learners. Most of the how we have developed a sisterhood of potent minds, bodies
Tutors then agreed to take on more tutees than originally agreed and souls. I hope the vision of developing wordsmiths in our
upon. Even the matrics, who were about to write their first matric womanliness will be continued on an even greater scale by my
exams, agreed to take on more tutees. Everybody went above and successors.
beyond what was expected of them and helped in dealing with the Leago Mamabolo
crisis smoothly and efficiently. This however, could not have been Head of Poetry Club
done if it had not been for the careful guidance of Ms Turpin; who
has led the Tutoring Programme for a number of years. It is through Pottery Club
the training that tutors turn out to be so diligent. Training, which
people would expect to be tedious and boring, was actually lots of Working with the diligent young ladies of Pottery
fun. It set the perfect tone for the year ahead. All the Tutors have Club has made this year a breeze. It feels as though,
worked together beautifully which made it a delight to lead them. just yesterday, I was still struggling to remember the
They have all played a part in making 2016 such a successful year. names of all the Pottery Club girls. Now the name
Laurentia Bopela of every single one of pottery girls is as familiar
Head of Peer Tutoring as my own, because we shared our passion and
creativity throughout this year.
Photography Some of the artworks created this year include
a mini clay house, a beautiful vase, cute little
This year has been a very successful year for the Photography decorative penguins, cupcake-shaped jewellery
Club. We gained many new, talented members and continued to boxes, coil pots, pinch pots and many other
items through which we expressed out
grow in numbers and in ability. Photography is a club where creativity.
girls get to express their thoughts and opinions All our members feel as though they have made

134 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

friends with whom they could share their views and passion about and my Vice-head, Charis.
Pottery Club. Mrs Greenberg, who is in charge of Pottery Club, Yebin Cho
helped the girls and me to make brilliant art works. Her support has Head of Pottery Club
made it possible for me to be a good Head of Pottery Club as she
set an excellent example of how to inspire and teach the girls with SCA
passion. I am definitely going to miss the days I looked forward to
discover the themes we would explore every week; the same group of Romans 12:10 reads: Be devoted to one another in brotherly
girls who always ran into the pottery studio just in time; the roaring love. Honour one another above yourselves.
sound of the pottery wheel and, last but not least, Mrs Greenberg This was the goal for The Student Christian Association (SCA)
2016 – to love one another endlessly, to regard the girls next to us

as our sisters and to become a family.
We are incredibly blessed to have our Heads, Ms Greenwood and
Mrs Ntuli, as our guides. They are the thread that knits the SCA
family together. Their guidance, wisdom and devotion have helped
SCA to enter into the place God wants us to be.
SCA has grown into a safe place where girls receive and give helping
hands, love and support. No amount of wealth can compare to the
experience we have had this year. During our fellowship days each
term, we played games which helped girls to connect and make
new friends. The worship evenings were filled with songs of praise,
helping our girls to connect with God and giving them the space
to share their burdens with one another. The committee, and, on
occasion, guest speakers, taught us more about God through
topics such as the power of prayer, the armour of God, Romans
8 and delving deeper into the Easter story.
Enough thanks cannot be given to the committee of 2016 as well
as the newly-founded passion team. Their caring hearts, attitude
of humility and eagerness to serve the girls selflessly has influenced
not only those they served but those who witnessed them serving.

The Iris 135

PHSG 1902–2016

Clubs and Societies

SCA
Back Row (L-R): Shaylin Davis, Amy Holtzkampf, Louisa Anyimadu, Cailtin Holtzkampf, Benita Kiabilua
Middle Row (L-R): Kiese Mpasa, Thando Mahlangu, Aretha Zamundu, Jessica da Silva, Lucia Mkanda, Thato Ramodibe,
Langa Sitsha, Amy Finlayson
Front Row (L-R): Orapeleng Kgampe, Masholo Tsagae, Olive Olesugun (Vice-head), Ms C Greenwood, Genevieve Joynt (Head),
Misha de Beer, Kgalalelo Koloti

Overall we thank God for what He is doing in and around our Student Inter-Cultural Club
school. This year He has carried us from strength to strength
and for this we give Him all the glory. We wish the new This year the Student Inter-Cultural Club (SICC) started on an
committee of 2017 all the best. You will be in our thought exciting note as a large number of girls auditioned to be part of
and prayers. the club. This was reflected in the 2016 show, which was slightly
Genevieve Joynt and Olive Olusegun different compared to the past shows. There were a total of twenty
Head and Vice-head of SCA items for the show, with an increase in the number of girls reciting

136 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

poetry this year. The standard of the poetry was Clubs and Societies
very high, much to the delight of the audience who
had to exchange their applause with the clicking of The Iris 137
fingers - something new for most. The Afrikaans
singers delighted the audience with some well- PHSG 1902–2016
know folk songs. The African traditional dancers
displayed a variety of cultures, Pedi, Venda, Zulu,
Xhosa and Tsonga, in their dance and clearly
appealed to the different members in the audience
who responded with ululations and cries from their
respective groups. The traditional Indian dancers
looked beautiful in their traditional outfits and the
audience was mesmerised by the haunting music
of the Indian flute. Amy Marais transfixed the
audience with her self-choreographed gymnastic /
modern dance performance. Bronwin and partner
entertained us with a romantic French ballroom
dance and Stacey Sapsford and partner performed
their routine to perfection. The Chinese group sang
beautifully in their traditional oriental gear. The
Marimba and Rhythmony girls had the audience
riveted with their renditions of traditional music. A
big thank you goes to Mr Ndlovu, who made sure
of this. However the night belonged to the local
House Kwaito and Fusion groups who appealed
mostly to the younger generation who knew all the
songs by heart.
The SICC is not just a club: we have become a
family. Being head of SICC has been a great
pleasure even though it came with a lot of
challenges and responsibilities. The year was
successful because of the support and leadership
of our great teacher liaisons, Mrs Dowlath and
Mrs Mjadu, and my Vice-head, Mmopi Nkuna. I
will honestly miss SICC and I hope that it grows
even more in the coming years.
Andile Mangisa and
Mrs Dowlath

Head of SICC and Teacher liaison

Viewpoint

English Creative Writing

Ice desert to any sort of substance that they could have used for food, and
did not even bother trying to find some. So they decided that
It was dark. It was cold. It was a foreign land, an icy, wintery desert. being together was substance enough.
Even in this alienated world where there was no time of day, no The night sky (or morning sky - they couldn’t tell) was dark,
days at all, you could still taste the morning’s aroma; you could still black almost, and starless. It had been a good few hours since
see the frost-covered ferns stretching out their elongated bristles, the two best friends, sisters, took shelter in a compact crevice
shaking off hours’ worth of snow. The ice-capped wonderland may underneath a snow-capped cliff. There were no signs of life: no
have seemed just that, but underneath the cold brutality that was birds chirping, no ground animals skittering along the snow.
winter, a merciless dimension lurked. The two best friends lay listless, tucked close together beneath
Side by side, two snow foxes waded through thick snow that was silver tails. They had lived a good, long life of sisterhood and
almost as thick and icily sharp as the frost around them. Born of friendship, and as the merciless wintery ice desert sucked the
the same litter, these two white puff-balls had spent almost five last droplets of life from their shivering bodies, twin souls clung
years together, never leaving each other’s side. They had seen and together, dancing and playing and laughing… into eternity…
experienced some of nature’s cruellest games, but this had to top Emma-Jayne Wright, Grade 8
all of them.
They stuck to each other like bees to honey as they made their way The monologue of a tree
through the thick white river. There were no sounds, only their
rapid heartbeats through thick silver fur. They could even smell I have seen how the world moves around me.
the odorous stench of gut-wrenching fear seeping off of their own I have seen the world around me flourish and fall.
bodies. Their throats and tongues had gone numb from the bitter I have seen civilisations rise from the rubble, while others
cold, but they didn’t notice. crumble into dust.
Finding a tight crevice beneath a snow-capped cliff, they decided I have seen life at its beginning, and death at its tragic end.
to take shelter for the night as their bodies were freezing and For millennia I have stood here, rooted to this patch of ground
becoming stone-stiff from the inside out. They did not have access as I watched the world spiral in development and destruction,
wealth and poverty, sickness and health.
Jade Georgiou - Grade 11 For centuries I have seen the greatest empires rule the lands
around me. I have seen them roar in victory after emerging
138 The Iris from battle, bloodshed their evidence of success. I have seen
others cower in fear, defeated by their enemies, left to suffer in
PHSG 1902–2016 the aftermath.
For decades I have seen the greatest of inventions, technological
advancements, and development of life in all corners of the
earth. Humanity has emerged from the dusty past of sticks and
stones to a world full of ambition. Eyes twinkle with the light of
ideas. Bulbs light up with every ticking moment.
For years I have seen how humanity has treated the world. The
wealthy live their lavish lives, laden with greed, hypocrisy and
a rapacious desire for more. They pride themselves on their
affluence, bellies flush against white-collared shirts of the
privileged. They sit on their thrones of status and complain
about everything they don’t have.
On the other side of the spectrum, poverty litters the streets.
Mothers hold their children as they cry from hunger. Men
clutch onto weapons of war to fight for their country.
Children run across barren streets full of rubble, tattered
shirts slipping off bony shoulders. Famine and disease are the
air they breathe. Some huddle together in crowded shelters,

praying to their God, asking for help from above. Others sit
in silence, acceptance hitting them in waves as they realise the

Viewpoint

Chantelle Pienaar - Grade 10 Kgaugelo Mkumbeni - Grade 10 Aeryn McEwen - Grade 11

truth of their situation. They are optimistic realists. What else can To inspire forbidden love throughout the ages?
they possibly be? Abductions, special missions and spies are nowhere to be found
Month after month, day after day, I hear the cry of a child as life They’re obviously hiding somewhere remote and underground.
emerges from a mother’s womb and behind me I can sense crime I see no fairy tales, no ‘Once upon a time’,
and murder on the sidewalk. I hear school bells ring and the joyous No ballads or poems with heart rendering lines.
songs of children coming home, but I also hear the strangled sobs
for a loved one lost to the ends of time. My page is blank, unblotted, clean …
All this would not have been possible without me. It is I that Proof of how little I’ve actually seen.
has given you the air to breathe, the shelter from the storm, the I cannot predict what my page will hold
sanctuary from the troubles of the outside world. But for now I will watch as my story unfolds.
And yet, people feel no gratitude. Gabriélla Clara, Grade 10
They burn my brothers and chop down my sisters. Corporations
demand my removal so that their concrete jungle can expand. They Musical tears
prefer the grey of smoke and pavement over the green hues of life
and the earthy browns of natural beauty. They poison me with Their music touches your soul
burning rains; they cover me with their modern rubbish. And all you want to know
And yet, I do not retaliate. I believe in the few who do treat Is how to do that too.
me well, the few individuals who protest for my well-being. You seek out some lessons
I salute them for their fight for my existence. But I cannot thank And take up the cello
them, for my time on this planet has come to end, all because you And work until your fingers bruise.
needed a toothpick.
Sandy Soe, Grade 10 Isn’t it the ultimate ‘Catch 22’
When you’d die without making music
Innocence But making music kills you?
For the pains that imperfection cause
My page is blank, unblotted, clean … Eat you alive but you have to practise more.
Still fresh and crisp, straight from the machine You have to achieve what you’ve never done before.
Not tainted or tarnished by the blackness of ink You have to work until your fingers can’t move anymore.
Not crumpled or rumpled, not even a kink.
A vast expanse of perfect white Why do I cry when I can’t play it right?
Yet I grow evermore tired of having it in my sight … Why do I always fall apart when I try
and I try
For what is a page with no story to tell? and the music sounds b r o k e n like I am inside.
As good as a merchant with nothing to sell. There is never any triumph
Where are the legends of battles bravely fought? Because there is no perfection
Of narrow escapes and villains who were caught? Because when you think that you’re better
Why do tragic romances not spill from my pages, There’s always an extra section
The Iris 139
PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Toni Siebert - Grade 11 Kelsey de Jongh - Grade 11 Isabeau Joubert - Grade 10

And you redo it until your fingers are bleeding away. One day, one conversation ends in tears of betrayal shed.
And your whimpering of frustration is transforming into weeping. Promises were broken and secrets were told. It took so long to
Your tears are washing away all of your untidy notes. gain my full trust, and when you did, it took a day to break it. I
And you storm out of the room, leaving your cello. loved you with all my heart, now I can’t even look at you.
I cried in arms that weren’t yours. Rumours spread and tears
You’ve never heard such a deafening silence in all your years. were shed. Unfit titles and names were bestowed upon me, from
You don’t hear the sound of strings fighting in your ears. you. You got what you wanted, and tore me down. What they
Suddenly you have to be aware. say is true: betrayal never comes from enemies.
You don’t see the sound waves superimpose in the air. Jamie McDonald, Grade 8
You feel an empty chasm in your head.
You feel like your heart has been pulled from your chest. My enemy
Your blood has stopped pumping.
Your heart is not thumping. It is silent. It is dark and there is no way out. Is that really how
I see the world now?
You stumble back to your dilapidated stand It was deafening. It was blinding, and the crossroads filled me
And take your instrument in your hands. with confusion. Is that really how I once saw the world?
A need much like an illness takes you back through the years. Now I have been to both extremes and they both scare me. All I
And you play like you’ve forgotten all of the tears. can do now is watch as you flick the match against the side of the
Because if you have to have an obsession that makes you this box. The result of the friction is used to light the furnace in my
sick, mind, and so, you ignite the pain once again. I know this pain.
Then it might as well be with music. It is a strange pain. It is the pain of the soul …
Amy Serfontein, Grade 10 The pain you now control grabs hold of me and pulls me down
again to the place I once called ‘Home’. It twists and wrenches
Too little sand its fist with me in its clutches. It is as if I can feel your hardened
nails scraping the fragile lining of my existence.
Naledi washed her hands with her tears, and her husband’s wounds When you are satisfied with your work so far, I feel your grip
with wine. Villagers with stones were ruthless to the committers loosen on me. But the flames still contained in my skull in no
of crime. way lessen the torture. Through the dim light I can make out
With the sunset seeping through the window, she watched as life the strong bars of ice cold iron of the cage into which you have
left his eyes. The sand in his hour glass was falling fast, running dragged me. I see, on the other side, a colourful world where
thin. children play, wildlife is undisturbed, families laugh and lovers
Breathless with weakness, he apologised. Didn’t mean to leave her carry the stars in their eyes. There is a euphoric sense of life in
to suffer alone. She said it was fine – a big, starved lie – only said to that world, the world that mocks me and teases me. I long for
give him peace, something to take with him when he died. that world, the world beyond my reach …
The raven flew past. A dead man, a lonely wife, all for a sack of I look down at my weary hands and am not startled by their
stolen rice. grey complexion. I know how it goes by now, but suddenly I
Tshilidzi Mabadzhabadzha, Grade 10 become aware of the eternity between heartbeats. I close my
eyes, heart unmoving, and I feel the vacuum that starts to build
Betrayal in my stomach.
Finally it comes: The blow of my heart against the cage that I
Secrets told, promises kept. Years of smiles. All wiped should be calling ‘Home’. My heart fights fiercely against you as
I sink to my knees and look up. The sky above me is blue. My
140 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Yerang Oh - Grade 10

heart gives another kick and I can see the birds soaring above me. from where I want to be? I could go anywhere I wanted to if I
The beating evens into a rhythmic pattern and the once unbreakable tried hard enough, but where was that?
bars around me crumble. The final attack of my beating lifeline is I will stow away on a ship … I will even fly to the moon, I thought.
driven through you. It is driven through me. No, I had to start small. I took off my spectacles, which were
You are me – and I must overcome myself to overcome my pain. beginning to irritate my eyes and placed them beside me.
Hannah Snyman, Grade 12 Then a thought occurred to me.
I had just effortlessly broken the barriers of this entire world,
A borderless world while focusing on it restrictions. I escaped into the world of the
unchartered, a world without borders, and I could do it again.
Sprawled out on the couch in the dark, stuffy lounge, I watched All that had to be done was to delve into the deepest corners of
my brother, sitting on the divan in front of me, play his game. This my mind. I could even visit the thoughts of others, if I wished.
was all I could see, as the rim of my spectacles blocked anything else Albert Einstein always lauded the power of imagination, and I
from my view. was not restricted to only the power of my own. To visit places
The figure in the TV dressed in pixelated khaki and covered in where no one else had set foot fuelled my desire, and I decided
electronic mud, jumped from one ledge, which the video game to follow it.
designers had conveniently placed, to the other. ‘Unchartered’, the It led me to another dusty, old room, with a hundred more
game was called. borderless worlds, all bound in leather and stacked upon shelves,
The world held a certain amount of appeal. But was anything left where I would be lost among the untouched, where nothing
unchartered anymore, when there were even footprints on the could hold me back.
moon? Then again, how many places could we claim to know Vrishti Singh, Grade 12
about, when there are aeroplanes disappearing and depths of the
ocean that only Captain Nemo has explored? When the world is puddle-wonderful
I pondered this, while the figure treaded through crystal waters
and climbed up death-provoking cliffs, seeking a long-lost pirate There is a place, not too far from here, where unicorns
treasure. and fairies live. This is a place of wonder and happiness.
It was easy to immerse myself in this virtual world. It screamed The skies are pink and purple and the waters are sparkling
‘ADVENTURE!’ There were always other people after the treasure, blue. The clouds are made of cotton candy and the trees are
otherwise it would not be a challenge, and the ostentatious ruins made of sweet jelly. All the houses have walls of ginger bread,
boasted glory. I yearned to be there. held together by white icing. The roofs of the houses are
Slowly surfacing back to reality, I felt trapped. Surely there was a made of liquorice and all the doors are
place on earth without borders. Or is anything really restricting me made from chocolate
The Iris 141
PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Chantelle Pienaar - Grade 11 Antonia Mugisa - Grade 10

chip biscuits. This is where I live with all my fairy friends. took my hand and pulled me to the dance floor.
It’s eleven o’clock at night. The pitter-patter of the water drops My parents are getting divorced. This is a day I knew would
from the leaking roof in my room is keeping me awake. I am come. It turns out my father’s colleague is easy on the eyes. As
more used to the song from the choir of police cars, racing past my mother walked into the courtroom, all eyes turned to look at
my house, chasing a stolen car. My mom is asleep in her room and her, but all she did was look at me. I looked back at her. I wanted
my father is ‘at work’. At least that’s what he tells us. This is the to see if my father would refuse to sign the divorce papers, but he
type of place I live in. This is a place full of hopelessness and grief. didn’t. I guess both parties had agreed. On the bus ride home
This is a place where the skies are always grey, even on a sunny day. with my mother, I turned to look at her. She sat closer to me,
The apartment buildings are old and are held together solely by took my hand and pulled me in for a hug.
faith. This is where broken dreams live. Sometimes I wish my life were the same in my head as it is in
My best friend’s name is Angela. Angela and I love doing things reality. When the world is puddle-wonderful, there are chocolate
together. Today, I attended her birthday party. I was the first fountains and swings made from roses. My parents are still together
to arrive at Marshmallow Meadow. All her gummy bear and and Angela is still here. But I live in a place where broken hearts
unicorn friends came a little later. DJ Fairy-Z played the latest and dead dreams live and Fairyland is my escape.
music and everyone had a wonderful time. Strawberry cupcakes Obakeng Moropa, Grade 12
and vanilla milkshakes were shared between all the guests. I did
not want to leave Angela’s party so she came home with me and Are you...?
we had a fairy sleepover.
My best friend’s name is Angela. Angela and I used to love to do Are you...?
things together. Today, I attended her funeral. I was the last to Are you my light?
arrive, as I thought this day would never come. I didn’t cry. For Here to guide me through the darkness of deceit
some reason, I didn’t cry. I instead remained silent and listened Are you my knight in shining armour?
to the different melodies coming together. The pauses in the Here to save me from the monsters in my head
pastor’s sermon gave way for the weeping of Angela’s mother. The Are you my Saviour?
birds’ gloomy song harmonised with the wind as if they too wept Here to cast out all my demons and make me pure again
for Angela. I never wanted to leave Angela and, as if she heard Are you my mother?
me, I felt her presence beside me as I walked home. Here to kiss my painful wounds that life has scarred me with
The fairy king and queen are getting married. Everyone is talking Are you the one?
about it. All of Fairyland made their way to the Grand Palace. Who can make this all go away
The whole place was filled with joy. All the guests rose as the Stop the wars and bring us peace
beautiful bride walked in. Our eyes met as she walked past me Heal the tarnished hearts that no one else can fix
and gave me a smile. I smiled back. She finally finished her journey Save the lives of innocent men
to the front of the wedding hall. Everyone was so happy when they Dying from the hands of injustice
finally said, ‘I do.’ Afterwards, there was a big party in the dining Are you our saving Grace?
Well...
hall. There were so many foods to choose from. When I Are you?
looked at the bride, she walked over to me, Khensani Shibambo, Grade 11

142 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Yerang Oh - Grade 10 Mikayla Isebeck - Grade 11

Homework should be banned in schools astounding 87%!
The problem with homework is that we just do it for the
‘Langa! Did you do all your Science homework?’ sake of it being done. Homework has now lost its meaning.
‘What Science homework?’ Homework has now become ‘The thing that takes up the
‘Page 49 – 183! It’s all due tomorrow and Ma’am is checking!’ time I could have used to study for the test’. As learners, that
is not what we want. We want a platform from which we can
There is only one answer to that question and one valid reason to learn, develop our minds and build our knowledge in spheres
follow it. No. No, I did not do my homework. ‘But why?’ you ask. that accommodate our different interests and abilities. That
It’s pretty simple: homework is pointless and should be banned platform is here, at school. Not at home.
from school. Langelihle Sitsha, Grade 11
There are thousands of reasons as to why we should not get
homework, but the main reason, and I am pretty sure that my Mary
peers can testify to this one, is that we just don’t have the time.
We have school in the morning from 07:20 to 14:00, extramural I wonder why Mary is taking so long. Maybe she overslept.
activities that run until 16:00 and some of us have to walk to Could she have forgotten? No, that’s impossible. We have
catch a taxi, to catch a bus, to catch a train, to catch a plane – to been having tea together in the back garden at exactly ten
arrive home at 20:30. Not only do we have an unfathomable o’clock for the last eight years.
amount of homework to do, but we still have to cook dinner I’ll just wait ten more minutes. She is probably just having
for the family, because our single parent is working a late night another argument with Frank about something. Those two
shift. are always bickering. Frank reminds me of my dear Richard.
Not only do we not have the time for it, but when we do, it is Oh, how I miss him! I look down at my left hand and look at
WASTED. Homework on average, can take more than three the ring on my wrinkly, old finger. Richard used to say I had
hours – when we know what we are doing. In most cases people chubby fingers. Now they are just skin and bone.
pull all-nighters every single night of the week doing homework. I lost a lot of weight after Richard died. Now all I have are my
And teachers wonder why we fall asleep in class. Surely if class is two children, who barely visit, and Mary, my best friend.
not a place to sleep, then home is not a place to work. I had other friends, with whom I was very close, but, sadly,
Not only is homework a waste of time, but a study called the Duke they are no longer around. They used to have tea
Study, done by Harris Cooper, reveals that homework does not with us too. Back then we had a group of five.
increase, but decreases, academic achievement. I myself am a The first to pass was Alex. She always had a frown on her face.
living statistic of that study. During the first term of Grade 9, The second to pass was Grace – a very bubbly person. She
I ensured that I did all my Maths homework. I achieved 68% always wore a smile and could light up a room with it.
at the end of Term 1. Term 2 arrived and I decided that I was The third person to leave was Gina: a very gentle person. That
not going to pull any stunts as it was exam term. So I waited is if you didn’t get her angry. How I miss my friends. Life has
for Term 3. Term 3 came along and, as stubborn as a mule, I become very bleak without them. They were the ones who
never did my homework. It took countless arguments with my helped me get past Richard’s death.
teacher, but at the end of the term my Maths mark shot up to an I look up and see the nurse walking towards me. She gives me
a tight-lipped smile before she starts talking.

The Iris 143

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Savanna Primmer - Grade 12 Leago Mangolele - Grade 12 Olivia Hitchcock - Grade 12

Nothing she says registers with me besides one thing. Mary had slowly around the clock. Sometimes waiting is a dreadful thing
not woken up that morning. that seems to devour parts of my life. But it’s also something that
Helena Zelle, Grade 10 one just has to let happen.
Before I know it, we’re home and we have survived the Friday
Friday afternoon traffic afternoon traffic, only to do it again next week.
Courtney Marshall, Grade 9
Every Friday invites the same long lines of cars and buses
transporting the busy people of South Africa to places that Oh, how we danced
they want to go. The cars seem to shuffle as time goes on. And,
before you know it, we’ve spent an hour on the road, in traffic, The family suffered. But did not all those who lived in that
trying to get home after a busy week. time suffer as well? We were all oppressed, we were all starving
The scorching sun is making the roof of the slow-moving and we were all scared. It was the year 1940 and the talk of
car boiling hot. The inside of the car becomes stuffy and I war was all about Germany. Our little Jewish village was on
switch the air-conditioner to full blast, praying that it makes the edge of a great city, a great city that would be turned into
a difference. The longer I am in the car, the more exhausted I ash and rubble in a few short years. My father and mother
become. My eyelids seem to droop and it feels as they become had been kind people, always willing to give what little they
heavier. There are streams of cars on either side, waiting for the had to those who had nothing. Both of them worked at one
right moment to accelerate, hoping to dodge an oncoming car. of the great German factories and were reminded daily about
The heat is unbearable, and I just sink into the seat, giving in how lucky they were to be able to serve the most powerful
to the sleepiness that I have been trying to avoid. All around country in the world, because they were supposed unclean,
me there are sounds of irritated drivers, hooting at the other Jewish lepers. Their lives were difficult. But there were a few
drivers, who appear to have fallen asleep. The traffic lights moments of gold in our coal-filled lives.
appear to be against us, never letting us out of their sight. The At a back alley corner, in our village, there was an old warehouse.
dreadful red eye is always watching us, until the green light It was the only place where Jewish music was played and where
rescues us. The problem is that the red light seems to be on those who valued their German culture and those who were
for ages and the green light only allows a small chance for us oppressed by it could come together.
to cross the road. Many strong, mixed friendships had been formed over
When we have had enough, we decide to find a less cramped sumptuous meals and late nights of dancing that carried
route. We contemplate routes that would make this a short many through into the early hours of the morning. It is sad to
trip, and to escape the slow traffic. When we’ve turned into think that these friendships would be shattered by a man who
a different road, we find it’s as bad or worse than before. It believed my people were unworthy of living. Nevertheless, it
seems like everyone had the same ‘wonderful’ idea. At this was at this warehouse where we forgot about our small, one-
very moment I feel as if the only option is to get out of the bedroom house or the savage mistreatment from our German
stuffy car and walk the rest of the way home. It feels as if time employers and German teachers at our German-run school. It
has stopped and has no interest in resuming again. was here where the ear-popping, loud music would drown out
even the most heart-breaking problems. It is here where I met
All I can do now is wait - wait for the wonderful green light
to say we can go, wait for time to wind itself

144 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Stephanie Beatson - Grade 11 Ellen Maartens - Grade 11 Savanna Primmer - Grade 12

a German friend who would later become my greatest foe. Amy Finlayson - Grade 11
I was seventeen at the time and my parents had taken the family
to the warehouse for the night. It was a Saturday evening, The Iris 145
which meant that my mother and father had the day off from
work on the Sunday. As usual at the warehouse, music streamed PHSG 1902–2016
out of the open door and many partners could be seen dancing
their worries away. A song I had known since I was a little girl
started to play and my family and many others rushed to the
dance floor. The music called for a beautifully elegant Jewish
waltz that my father had taught me some years ago. Due to my
excitement, I grabbed the closest boy I could latch onto and
pulled him to me. Then, we moved. And oh how we danced!
Our steps together were so graceful, so precise. He seemed to
know the waltz well. He even added in extra dips and twists in
time with the music. That was to be the greatest dance I would
dance for a really long time. I spent the night with the boy and
we became fast friends. I found out that he was from Berlin
and would soon be enlisting in the German Nazi Army to make
his father proud. I remember wishing him luck and telling him
that he would do his country proud.
I could not possibly have known that in a few days, he and his
fellow soldiers would be the ones escorting my family and me
from the only home we had ever known into camps where so
many of my people would meet their cold and cruel deaths.
Thousands perished along with my parents at the hands of
Hitler. But, by some unholy and unfair miracle, I survived.
It is now many years later and I am back in Germany. I am old and
withered by memory and pain. I live in the Great City that has
been rebuilt from ash and rubble, not too far from my childhood
home. Every day I take a walk around my block and every day I
pass other old German soldiers and Jewish sufferers. I often think
back on my last night at the warehouse. I imagine the music, the
happy carefree people and the waltz.
And I think: Oh how we danced.
Vaschel Naidoo, Grade 12

Viewpoint

Afrikaans Stelwerk

‘n Dag wat ek nooit sal vergeet nie

Ek was maar net ‘n klein ses-jarige meisie op ‘n koue Maandagoggend
in die winter, toe die weer bewolk was.
Ek en Mamma was binne ‘n groot gebou. Ons het vinnig geloop en
Mamma het my hand styf vasgehou. Toe ek vir ‘n sekonde ophou
loop om my asem terug te kry, was daar duisende mense voor my
oë. Die skare was ontelbaar.
Ons het na ‘n toonbank geloop waar daar ‘n vrou was, wat ‘n rooi
das gedra het. Mamma het vier pers tasse gedra wat sy op die
vervoerband gesit het. Toe Mamma vir die Kaartjiebeampte een
kaartjie na Londen gevra het, het ek begin wonder hoekom sy net
een kaartjie gekoop het.
Ek het gedink datek miskien veerkeerd gehoor het. Mamma sou
seker twee kaartjies koop? Ek het gou daarvan vergeet toe ek van
blydskap begin dans het, want ek was onder die indruk dat ons met
vakansie sou gaan. Toe ek na Mamma met my glimlaggende gesig
gekyk het, het sy net haar kop sywaarts geskud.
daar was ‘n traan wat van Mamma se gesig afgeloop het. ek het
gewonder of die rede vir haar huilery was omdat sy haar swemklere
vergeet het. My klein vinger het saggies die traan van Mamma se
gesig afgevee.
Mamma het my hande op haar bors gesit. Ek kon haar hartklop
hoor. Dit was duidelik en vinnig soos ‘n perd se pote wat teen die
wind hardloop.
“Hier is waar ek jou verlaat, my kind.” Mamma het dié woorde
asemloos gesê. Die woorde het by my gespook totdat hulle, net
soos my Ma, net ‘n herinnering geword het.
Caitlin Hilliard-Lomas, Graad 11

Ek wil nog Margo Molchan - Grade 11
ek die beste keuse van my lewe gemaak het. Ek het begin skryf.
Toe ek klein was, wou ek ‘n sanger wees tot ek besef het dat ek nie Toe ek geskryf het, het my woorde soos suurstof vir die dooie
eintlik kan sing nie. Later wou ek ‘n dokter wees, want ek wou papier lewe gegee. My woorde het soos reën oor die droë vlaktes
mense help en lewens red, tot ek onthou het dat ek naar voel as die van my siel versprei en blomme laat groei, waar daar net klippe
word ‘bloed’ genoem word. was.
Verlede jaar wou ek ‘n astroloog wees, want ek wou sterre sien en na Toe het ek besef dat ek ‘n gedig is wat beroemd wil wees en
die planeet reis, totdat ek besef het dat ek nie negentig persent vir mense se lewens verander.
wetenskap kry nie. Nou soek ek nog steeds vir my passie, my talent. Ek wil nog iemand wees. Ek wil nog ‘n digter wees.
Ek soek al my hele lewe lank. Caitlin Hilliard-Lomas, Graad 11
Ek het netball, hokkie, sokker, dans, perdry, koor en tennis gedoen
en alhoewel ek baie van sport hou, lê my talent en my toekoms, nie Wat maak Suid-Afrika uniek
daarin nie.
Ek wou nie ophou soek nie; dus het ek begin klavier en kitaar speel. Dit het al tradisie geword vir my gesin asook die van Rensburgs
Ek was altyd lief vir die instrumente, maar ek het nooit ritme gehad om jaarliks die “Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees” in
nie. Toe het ek begin prentjies teken. Ek was nooit goed met kuns Oudtshoorn by te woon – ook welbekend as die “Groot Voël
Paradys”. Al die feesgangers is in rep en roer en skarrel soos
nie, maar die prentjies wat ek geteken het, het altyd
sterk bedoelings gehad. Dit is toe

146 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Asanda Nkonde - Grade 10 Aeryn McEwen - Grade 11 Isabeau Joubert - Grade 10

‘n kolonie rotte van een vertoning na die volgende. Een woelige meeste inwoners verskeie magtig is? Watter land beskik oor ‘n
oggend was dit ‘n uitdaging om almal betyds in Tanya se klein, pragtige volkslied wat van sy offisiële tale insluit? Ons stap oor
groen Volkswagen te kry! Goeie genugtig! Ons verlaat die huis die straat by ‘n Zebra-kruising … want ons het Zebras!
eers tien minute voor my pa se eerste vertoning. Sy gaan stop op Dink aan sie Spur, Mieliepap, Bokkoms van die Kaap en al die
die randsteen voor die ingang vn die hoërskool sodat my pa kan lekker sepies waaraan die tannies tog so verslaaf is.
uitspring en hopelik betyds sal wees vir sy vertoning. Tanya is vol Ons reënboognasie het meer as een tradisionele dis – vir
energie! Sy moet ons almal nog betyds by ons vertonings besorg… sommige sal dit pap en vleis wees, vir ander biltong of bobotie
En daar trek sy weg… Al wat ons naderhand hoor, is die vreeslike of skaapafval of Lamsboud en gebraaide aartappels of gebraaide
geskreeu: “Wow! Wow! Wow!” My pa was toe al die tyd met een snoek of gevulde vetkoek of skaapstertjies.
been in die motor en met die ander been al springende die teerpad Jy sal ver gaan vir so ‘n humorsin en die vermoë om gemoedelik
af. Van daardie dag af is my pa se nuwe bynaam, “Hop-Along- met mekaar te spot – ons maak blitsvinnige grappe oor alles
Cassidy.” gebore. waaraan jy kan dink! Howzit, Izzit, Braai, my tjommie, daardie
Almal ken die klank van reën wat op ‘n sinkdak en teen die ruite laaitjie, aikona, mampara, robot, hysbak en natuurlik … eish! –
spat. Almal weet dat die winkels in rep en roer is, veral gedurende om maar net ‘n paar klanke eie aan Suid-Afrika te noem.
naweke. Almal ken iemand wat vreeslik kan spek skiet of steen en In die Klein Karoo tussen die karoobossies, Swartberge,
been kan kla. karaktervolle volstruise en vrolike, plaaslike inwoners voel
Watter ander taal val so lekker op die tong? die soos my persoonlike Utopia waarna my hart altyd sal
In watter ander taal kan jy ‘n kat uit ‘n boom kyk of iemand touwys smag. Kulture, landskappe, kossoorte, die warm strale van die
maak? oggendson en die unieke sonsondergange sal lewenslank aan alle
Suid-Afrika is ‘n unieke, wonderlike land wat begaafde pioniers en Suid-Afrikaner se hartsnare tokkel!
entrepreneurs opgelewer het. Tipiese, eg Suid-Afrikaanse produkte Chané Nel, Graad 11
laat ons harte warm klop.
Waar kan jy so lekker braai en in die bos of by die see kamp? Magie vol ogies toe
Daardie heerlike geur van die vleisie op ‘n oop vuur gemaak met
egte bosveldhout, kry jy in geen ander land nie! “Kan ek vir ‘n oomblik met Juffrou eerlik wees? Na ‘n lang
In watter land kry jy die Bosveld, Laeveld, Sandveld, Richtersveld aand van swot vir wiskunde” en dan is die helfte van die vrae
en Overberg se Renosterveld, Karoobossieveld, Doringveld, nie eers in die vraestel nie “na pouse is jy doodmoeg. Die laaste
Mopanieveld en omtrent enige ander tipe veld waaraan jy moontlik plek waarnatoe ek dan wil gaan, is na Juffrou Moolman toe”
kan dink? meer bekend as ‘Voëlman’. Haar skerp neus en groot uiloë wat
Oe, en dan is daar al ons plaaslike produkte soos bv.: Ghost Pops en wegkruip onder daai 1980-verkykers is genoeg om enige iemand
Kaarkrulle, Ultra Mel-vla, Lemon Twist en Creme Soda-koeldrank, se konsentrasie te verloor.
Marmite, Mrs Balls Blatjang en Ouma Beskuit; waarvoor daar “Ek sal die openlik erken dat Geskiedenis nou nie my sterkste
wêreldwyd geen plaasvervanger te vind is nie. punt is nie” maar gelukkig ook nie my swakste nie. “Wie gee
Ons vieer die heerlikste sonnige, warm, lang skoolvakansies aan die in elk geval om wanneer Marie Antoinette met Hitler getrou
einde van die jaar – sonder enige sneeu! het, en hoe lank hulle teen apartheid geveg het. Al
Waar in die wêreld kry jy ‘n land met elf offisiële tale waarvan die vloeistof wat op daardie oomblik

The Iris 147

PHSG 1902–2016

Viewpoint

Toni Siebert - Grade 11 Yerang Oh - Grade 10
in my lyf kan vloei, is die vloeistowwe in my maag, na ‘n lekker
toebroodjie wat oorloop met Nutella en grondboontjiebotter gehoor
en saam ‘n hemelse dans op my tong gedoen het. Wie se ogies sit
sal nie toeval nie?” asemloos:
“Die feite was so sag teen my swaar kop, die tafel so aanloklik en
vir die eerste keer in my lewe het ek die kans van ‘n leeftyd reguit die kunstenaar spin,
en diep in die oë gestaar. Ek het uiteindelik ‘n klas gekry waar ek haar klein liggaam
heel agter in die hoek, agter die skool se hemelbesem kon sit. Die dans in die lug
kans het uitgeroep na my toe en vir ‘n dowwe oomblik het ek my -‘n dans wat ‘n mens
oë te lank geknip.” Toe ek my oë oopgemaak het, staan die maer
kraai voor my. Ek het ‘n Bic-stempel op my wang, ‘n poeletjie slegte woordeloos los –
drome op my boek en ‘n dooie arm. ‘n dans wat eindig
“En? Het jy detensie gekry? ‘n Waarskuwing?” vra my vriendin. met ‘n sagte
“Nee, niks nie. Net nog ‘n geskiedenisles. Blykbaar het Hitler ‘ploeps’
nooit met Antoinette getrou nie. Sy was ‘n bruinkop en hy het Christy du Preez, Graad 8
sy oog op ‘n blondine gehad. Sy was toe so ontsteld dat sy hulle
troukoek sommer vir die arm mense gegee het.” Die wêreld deur die lens van’n kamera
“Jy was dan so lank daar binne? Is dit al wat sy gesê het?”
“Nee, dis waar die beste deel inkom. Ek het uiteindelik geleer Skoenlappers, spierwit
hoe om met my oë oop te slaap.” wolke, outydse geboue
“Welkom in tienerskap!” wat anders lyk as realiteit.
Misha de Beer, Graad 11 Dit is hoe ‘n mens die
wêreld sien deur die lens
‘Ploeps’ van ‘n kamera.

een tree en die atleet Sonneblomme,
staan oranje sonstrale,
klein voor die oë van die gehoor: pragtige gesiggies, oulike
sy staan tien meter in die lug - ogies wat só helder skyn
‘n platform die enigste ding en onskuldig lyk. Dit is
tussen haar en die stil die wêreld deur die lens
waggende van ‘n kamera.
water Daniella Nieuwenhuis, Graad 11
sy s p r i n g
en Het leven in het acterhuis

die Het is donker maar ik kan
nog zien,
148 The Iris

PHSG 1902–2016