Learners and teachers at John Frylinck High School in Vryburg recently took part in a five-day leadership programme designed to cultivate values-driven leadership and empower 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 that fostered teamwork, self-belief, and creativity, laying the foundation for 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. One learner explained that the programme taught them the importance of teamwork, loyalty, socialising, and how to solve problems through communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.
By redefining leadership as a responsibility rather than a position of authority, the academy encouraged learners and teachers to embrace collaboration, empathy, and integrity. Equipped with these values and skills, participants are returning to their schools ready to drive meaningful change within their 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.
