Founder’s Day Address. Camps Bay High School celebrated its annual Founder’s Day Assembly today, 28 May. An exceptional address was delivered by past pupil Asongezwa Sitwebile from the Class of 2013. Asongezwa’s journey, after graduating from Camps Bay High School, has been nothing short of inspiring. His remarkable achievements continue to inspire current students.
Asongezwa completed his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of the Western Cape. He specialized in his field and also graduated cum laude. Furthermore he pursued further studies at the University of Cape Town. There, he obtained a postgraduate degree in BCom (Hons) Information Systems. Today, Asongezwa holds a prominent position at Yoco, a leading fintech company, where his expertise lies in Salesforce development.
Said Camps Bay High School Principal, Louis Mostert, “Asongezwa’s Founder’s Day address captivated the audience during the Monday assembly.”
Asongezwa took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reflecting on his first day at Camps Bay High School back on 21 January 2009, and the awe-inspiring impression the school’s beauty and breathtaking views left on him.
Imposter syndrome
He candidly shared his experience of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. He acknowledged the challenges he faced as he adapted to the English medium of instruction. Coming from a primary school where isiXhosa was the primary language of instruction, Asongezwa initially focused solely on academics and refrained from participating in extracurricular activities.
However, a turning point arrived when a new rule encouraged Grade 8 and Grade 9 learners to engage in at least one sport. Stepping out of his comfort zone, Asongezwa ventured into sports such as soccer, cross-country, and basketball. He also immersed himself in cultural activities. This included marimba, choir, school plays, and the Interact Society. Additionally, he took part in Olympiads, science expos, and the President’s Awards. By the time he reached matric, he had become a skilled multitasker, shouldering multiple leadership roles and earning the coveted title of ‘Best All Rounder.’
Reflecting on his personal and career growth, Asongezwa emphasised the profound impact Camps Bay High School had on his life. The countless rehearsals, early morning meetings, and weekend stage practices instilled discipline and confidence. He recounted attending the Mo Ibrahim Governance Weekend in Nairobi, Kenya, where his confidence and demeanour were a testament to the training received at Camps Bay High School.
Humorous incident
Asongezwa also acknowledged the challenges faced, including succumbing to peer pressure. He shared a humorous incident involving a grade photo where his actions landed him in detention and embarrassed him in front of the whole school. This experience led him to reflect on the significance of being labelled the “good guy” and societal stigmas associated with it. He expressed his disagreement with the saying, “Nice guys finish last,” questioning the notion that being good or nice is a disadvantage. He stressed the importance of treating others well, referencing Maya Angelou’s quote about the lasting impact of how people make others feel. To quote Angelou, “”I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
In closing, Asongezwa encouraged the current learners to embrace the opportunity to shape their own future. He highlighted the importance of decision-making and creating positive thoughts and experiences. He left the school with the notion that thoughts will return to Camps Bay High School, urging them to paint their own unique future while creating and controlling the thoughts that shape it.
Daniella Segall, the current Head Prefect of Camps Bay High School, reflected on his speech, “Asongezwa’s Founder’s Day address left a profound impact on us all, inspiring us to embrace our potential, make positive choices, and shape our destinies. Let’s carry his message forward and create a future filled with possibilities!”
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Photos: Gadija Sallie and Kunashe (JJ) Mandaza – Gr 11