On the AWSUM couch with Howick High School’s Head Girl: Mary-Lynn Cotton

Congratulations on being selected as a leader at your school. What are you looking forward to the most during your term as leader? Working as a team with a brilliant and vibrant group of young people, as well as growing and learning  when facing new challenges in a leadership role.

What are your strengths and weaknesses? I’m passionate about the things I do and thrive when working with people. Although, I have been described as energetic, I struggle to pace myself.

Is there anything you would like to change at your school? To encourage more people to take full advantage of the different activities the school has to offer as well as the school including a wide variety of clubs and meetings to meet the needs of different individuals.

What do you love the most about your school? The security and support of the school and the community that surrounds us.

Matric is your final year, from an academic point of view, what are you aiming for? Managing my time in a way that allows me to prioritize my studies so that I can aim to achieve honours in academics.

What will you message of encouragement be for your prefects/co-leaders? The rest of the school and teaching body has elected you for your position because they believe and trust that you will do a great job. So believe that you can too! When the going gets tough, remember that and don’t doubt yourself.

Who is your role model? Surprise Sithole.

What are your plans after matric in 2023? I will be taking a gap year to work in a volunteer program that works with and teaches young children in activity centers. (The Scouts National Volunteer Team)

If you could be any superhero, who do you want to be and why? Mulan. She is a symbol of how a caring, loving heart can lead a strong independent woman.

On a regular Saturday, you will find me… on my mountain bike in the Karkloof Trails with my friends or family; or on the sportsfields with my team.

Who is your Hollywood celeb crush? Dominic Thiem.

Pick one:

• Netball, rugby, cricket, or hockey? Hockey
• Cappuccino, hot chocolate, or tea? Tea
• Braai with friends or takeaways? Braai with friends
• Binge watching series or a live music festival? Live music festival
• Android or iOS? Android