Two outstanding South African students, Zuri Conroy and Mackensie McKay, have been named recipients of the globally respected Nsouli Scholars Programme, a flagship scholarship initiative from the Inspired Education Group. The scholarships offer a life-changing opportunity by fully funding tuition and boarding for the duration of the students’ senior school years at top-tier schools in the Inspired network.
Zuri and Mackensie commenced their high school journeys at Inspired’s Reddam House Constantia and Reddam House Bedfordview, respectively, in January 2024. After just one term, both students are already making a strong impression through their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to co-curricular activities.
The Nsouli Scholars Programme was founded in honour of Nadim Nsouli, the visionary behind the Inspired Education Group, which spans over 80 premium schools across five continents. The programme supports around 16 new scholars globally each year and aims to remove financial barriers for exceptional students who would not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
“At Inspired, we believe that talent should never be limited by circumstance,” said Nadim Nsouli, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Inspired. “Zuri and Mackensie represent the future – determined, compassionate, and courageous young women who are already making an impact. We’re proud to support their journeys and welcome them into our global group of schools.”
Meet the Scholars
Zuri Conroy – Reddam House Constantia
A former Head Monitor at Wynberg Girls’ Junior School, Zuri joins Reddam House Constantia as a multi-talented student with a passion for sport and justice. Her journey into water polo began in Grade 5, and her dedication saw her become the goalkeeper for the Western Province U13A team. Now a member of Reddam’s U14A team, she’s already helped secure two gold medals in 2024.
Zuri is also a strong academic performer, particularly in EMS and mathematics, and aspires to one day become a lawyer. She hopes to pay her scholarship opportunity forward by one day sponsoring another student’s education.
“Zuri brings a remarkable sense of integrity and leadership into every space she enters,” said Alex Gitlin, Executive Head of Reddam House Constantia. “She’s articulate, engaged, and energised – already a valuable member of our school community.”
Q&A with Zuri:
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What excites you about your new school?
“It’s a fresh start where I can truly shine in both academics and water polo.” -
What motivates you?
“I always want to improve. Setting goals and working towards them keeps me focused.” -
Who has inspired you most?
“My Grade 4 teacher, Miss Willis – she believed in me and pushed me to never settle.” -
Your dream?
“To be a lawyer and help someone else through school, just like I’ve been helped.”
Mackensie McKay – Reddam House Bedfordview
At just 13, Mackensie has already proven herself a top scholar and national-level athlete. A five-time Dux Scholar at Bedfordview Primary with an academic average consistently in the high 90s, she balances elite gymnastics training—two to three hours a day—with academic excellence. Her team has won national titles and will soon represent South Africa at the World Championships in Germany.
Her leadership extends beyond school and sport. She is a committed volunteer, participating in environmental clean-ups and advocating for poverty relief and healthcare access for children.
“Mackensie embodies excellence, compassion and perseverance,” said Stephen Hazley, Executive Head of Reddam House Bedfordview. “She balances elite sport and academics with quiet strength and humility.”
Q&A with Mackensie:
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What does the scholarship mean to you?
“It’s helped me believe that if you work hard and stay focused, anything is possible.” -
What drives you?
“I want to keep improving and be the best version of myself.” -
Your proudest achievement?
“Becoming a Nsouli Scholar and a national gymnastics champion.” -
Your future goal?
“To become a paediatrician and help children in Africa live healthier lives.”
The Future in Capable Hands
With only around 50 students supported globally at any one time, being selected as a Nsouli Scholar is both a rare honour and a springboard to a future of impact. Zuri and Mackensie exemplify what the programme was designed to achieve: nurturing the potential of exceptional young leaders who will shape tomorrow’s world.
