CAPE TOWN-A group of talented learners made their school proud after hearing they will represent the Western Cape in a business competition at Gold Reef City today (8 October).
This year Heathfield High School announced that 50 of their Grade 10 and 11 learners were selected to take part in the Junior Achievement South Africa (Jasa) programme.
“This is an initiative that offers learners the opportunity to explore innovative business ideas with a strong focus on sustainability, financial literacy, and leadership. The programme aims to equip learners with the skills needed to become successful and responsible future leaders,” said school principal, Nadia Anhuizen.
The learners were grouped into four companies of 15 members each, namely: Erthwize, Aquavita, Nutri-Life and Grade Boost.
“As part of the school’s pre-competition process, each company pitched their business ideas in front of a panel, competing against one another. From this round, Nutri-Life and Grade Boost emerged as the winning companies.
“We are proud to announce that these two companies are among the Western Cape winners who will represent the province in Johannesburg,” she said.
Grade 11 learner, Tayquin Leigh Dearham, says she learnt about the power of creativity while her group planned their strategies.
“Making this fertiliser product through the anaerobic process has been a really fulfilling experience.
“My eyes were opened to the power of creativity when I discovered how something as basic as waste might be turned into something worthwhile.”
The challenges that they faced leading up to their showcase were maintaining belief and improving their patience, perseverance, and problem-solving skills.
“The Jasa programme made the experience even more meaningful. It gave me the chance to work with others, share ideas and actually see how something small can grow into a real project. The Jasa programme, especially, was powerful and unforgettable, honestly, it’s an experience I’m truly proud of. I didn’t just learn about business or science; I learnt how to work with people and how to believe in myself. This journey opened my eyes in so many ways, and it’s something I’ll carry with me moving forward.”
The learners will compete in the final round of the competition which will take place in Johannesburg later this year.
Anhuizen says that the success of this programme would not have been possible without the dedication of the teachers involved.
“Celeste Hector and Stacey Maarman committed their time beyond school hours, including weekends, to mentor and guide the learners. Their support ensured that learners were effective in their planning and well-prepared for the practical and theoretical components of running a successful business.”
The school extends its sincere gratitude to Zaida Julius for offering Heathfield High School the opportunity to be part of this valuable programme.
“These individuals prove that diligence, discipline and consistency are fundamental values which underpin success. I wish the entire Jasa contingent from the Western Cape well as they vie for the national title,” said Anhuizen.
