QUISTYNN VELDSCHOEN

At the annual Valedictory Service for the Class of 2022, Mrs Imelita van der Berg described the Gr 12s as a group with a high emotional intelligence and as a ‘class with class.’

The matrics looked forward to this event that would finally bring closure to their school career. However, the nostalgia of the service touched many Gr 12 hearts. It was emotional to hand over the candles and walk through the guard of honour formed by the Gr 11s and, even more so, to leave through the gate and return as ‘Old Girls.’  

The newly elected RCL and the Gr 11s who officially received the leadership of St Michael’s from theGr 12s were commissioned to serve the school.

Although the evening was spent in darkness after a power outage, it was still a resounding success. After the new RCL had made their promise to remain loyal to St Michael’s, Reverend Trewern delivered his homily about putting on your ‘Number Ones’ such as your blazer and basher but also the Armour of God.

The Reverend also asked the congregation three very important questions: ‘How do we see ourselves?’, ‘How do we identify ourselves?’ and ‘What is our identity?’ These are questions that shape our humanity.

The matrics served St Michael’s faithfully and with pride. They will always be able to call SMS their home. When delivering her speech, Nondumisa said, ‘As the matric class of 2022 we have left our mark. We have succeeded in making this one of our best.’  With the strong foundation established at SMS, they will be able to leave their mark in the adult world as well. They belong to a sisterhood that will always have their backs no matter what comes their way. They do not ‘need magic to change the world; they carry all the power they need inside them already. They have the power to imagine better.’ (JK Rowling).