A heartwarming collaboration between the Friends of the New Brighton Library and the non-profit organisation, IPHULO leeNkonde Foundation, resulted in the inaugural Achievers Day programme at the library hall, recently.
Representatives from Newell, Cowan, Ithembelihle, and Sophakama high schools gathered, each with five current Grade 12 learners who had excelled in the 2023 final exams.
“These students were recognised for their academic prowess in Grade 11,” said Friends of the New Brighton Library chairperson, Stan Mosia.
The event’s keynote speaker, Dr Sipho Sishi, shared an inspiring message. Sishi, whose educational journey began in New Brighton and led him to Fort Hare University and Medunsa, resonated deeply with the audience.
His speech emphasised the importance of staying focused on the path to success.
Supportive messages also came from a member of the Mayoral Committee, Bassie Kamana, of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture portfolio; Lulama Mayedwa representing the community, and Nyameko Mlonzi from Nelson Mandela University Marketing.
Soqhayisa High School in Motherwell received a special invitation due to their consistent outstanding matric results over the years.
Mbulelo Nzo, a retired education official, author, isiXhosa language advisor, and music composer, delivered the closing remarks, congratulating the learners and wishing them success in their upcoming final exams.
The NMBM libraries section provided educational goodie bags to the learners, while businessman, Weza Moss, sponsored badges as tokens of appreciation.
These badges will be presented to each of the 20 learners during a special ceremony officiated by reverend Lulamile Ngesi in the second term.
The programme will become a part of National Libraries Week, celebrated annually in March, highlighting its significance for future years.