HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS EMPOWERED THROUGH RESIDENTIAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY. Learners and teachers at John Frylinck High School, in Vryburg, recently participated in a five-day leadership programme aimed at cultivating values-driven leadership and empowering young people to create meaningful change in their schools and communities.

The Residential Leadership Academy, funded by Waterloo Solar and facilitated by Columba Leadership, brought together 12 learners and three educators to strengthen their sense of purpose, build resilience, and develop the skills needed to lead with purpose and empathy. Participants engaged in activities designed to foster teamwork, self-belief, and creativity, laying the foundation for impactful in-school social action projects that will leave a lasting legacy.

Reflecting on their experience, learners shared how the academy reshaped their understanding of leadership.

“The programme has taught me the importance of teamwork, loyalty, socialising and how to identify and solve problems relying on communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity,” said one of the learners.

By redefining leadership as a responsibility rather than a position of authority, the academy empowered learners and teachers to embrace collaboration, empathy, and integrity. Equipped with these values and skills, participants will return to their schools ready to drive meaningful change in their schools and communities.

“The Residential Leadership Academy is more than a training programme, it is a foundation for lifelong leadership. Equipped with resilience and a vision, learners are empowered to return to their schools ready to champion projects that will strengthen their communities long after they matriculate. We are inspired by the commitment shown at John Frylinck High School and look forward to seeing the ripple effects of this academy in the months ahead,” said Qinisani Siveshe, Social Performance Manager for Waterloo Solar.