schoolsthatrock
Head Boy 2025. Schools That Rock chat to the Head Leaders of High Schools in South Africa. Today we learn more about Nhlanhlenhle Mtshali, Head Boy 2025 of St Dominics Newcastle, KwaZulu Natal.
“As Head Leader 2025 of St Dominics Newcastle, I am excited to bring positive change to our school. I also want to foster an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. Furthermore I am looking forward to collaborating with the team to create memorable experiences and help everyone realise their full potential.
My personal goal for this year is to grow in emotional intelligence, decision-making, and resilience. For the school, I aim to cultivate a spirit of unity, inclusivity, and innovation. This will ensure that every learner feel a sense of belonging and has opportunities for growth and success.
Our school’s strength lies in its diversity and the willingness of its learners, teachers, and staff to come together and support one another. The collaborative spirit is what makes our school feel like a true community, and this sets us apart from others.
Open channels for communication
Adjustments to our school that I would like to see this year, is more open channels for communication between students and faculty. It will allow better understanding and responsiveness to our needs. Additionally, fostering a stronger mentorship culture which can help learners navigate challenges and thrive.
To persuade somone to make our school their choice, I would highlight the supportive and nurturing community. Also the opportunities for personal growth, and the commitment to academic excellence. Our school isn’t just a place to learn – it’s a place to grow as an individual, discover passions, and prepare for the future.
My strongest leadership trait is empathy. I believe in listening to others, understanding their needs and perspectives, as well as creating a space where everyone feels seen and heard. Empathy is key to building trust and fostering collaboration.
To get collaboration (commitment) from my team, I will inspire commitment through open communication. I will also lead by example, and show that every team member’s input is invaluable. I believe in empowering people by giving them ownership over their roles as well as encouraging shared goals.
Vusi Thembekwayo
The person I look up to the most, is Vusi Thembekwayo, South African entrepreneur and autor. His incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs is truly inspiring. What I admire most about him is his relentless focus, his ability to think strategically, and his dedication to helping others unlock their potential. His authenticity and confidence in navigating challenges teach me that true success lies not just in financial achievement, but in creating value and empowering others.
I daydream mostly about a world where everyone has access to equal opportunities, where kindness, understanding, and compassion are at the core of every interaction. As a leader, I hope to help make this vision a reality, one step at a time.
My favourite dish is a homemade vegetable stir-fry. It represents balance, creativity, and the importance of combining diverse elements for a harmonious result, much like leadership itself.
If I had to be a kitchen article, I would be a blender. Just as a blender brings various ingredients together to create something better, I aim to bring different perspectives and strengths together to create solutions that benefit everyone.
Regarding a future career? I am passionate about pursuing a career in social entrepreneurship. This is why I want to make a lasting impact by addressing key societal challenges. I am considering applying to universities that are leaders in innovation and social impact, such as UCT or Tuks, where I can develop the skills to turn my ideas into tangible change.
Read more schools news: https://schoolsthatrock.co.za/
https://www.curro.co.za/schools/st-dominics-newcastle-high-school/
Photo supplied
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