St John's College Academy Prizing Giving and Valedictory Mass

The Memorial Chapel was filled with the Prep and College Academy students and their families for the St John’s Academy Prize Giving and Valedictory Mass on Thursday, 23 October 2025.

Mr Stuart West, Executive Headmaster, welcomed everyone, before The Revd Dr Matthew Wright opened in prayer. Jenovic Lumu, 2025 Head Boy, reflected on his Academy years, followed by a keynote from fellow Grade 12 student Cameron Bambi.

Mr Samukelo Masango, Head of the Prep Academy, and Mr Lester Lalla, Preparatory Headmaster, presented certificates to the Prep boys. Mr Masango thanked partner schools and addressed the Grade 7s: “I like to refer to this time of year as the time to step up,” he said. “After a year of learning and growth, it’s time to evolve into newer versions of ourselves. The discipline and confidence you have built here will serve you well. This isn’t goodbye forever; it’s a ‘see you later’. Our door remains open. Go forward with Lux, Vita, Caritas – Light, Life, and Love.”

Mr Mickey Mashago, Head of the College Academy, asked his young men: “What Will Your Legacy Be?” He emphasised that legacy is built through daily choices. “Legacy is not what remains after we are gone; it is what we build through what we do every day. True legacy is not about accumulation but about contribution. It is measured not by what we take, but by what we give,” he said.

Mr Mickey Mashego presented a farewell gift to Mr Stuart West.

Mr Stuart West, Executive Headmaster and Jenovic Lumu, Grade 12 Dux Scholar.

Ntsika Ntsinga was announced as the new Head Boy, and Jamie Qwabe as his Deputy.

Mr Sidumo Nyamezele, Head of African Music and Conductor, led the students in song as they processed to the Valedictory Mass. The Revd Fr Thapelo Masemola, Chaplain, presided over the Mass as celebrant and homilist.

Mr Mashego presented the Handing Over of Office and Final Roll Call, announcing Ntsika Ntsinga as the new Head Boy, and Jamie Qwabe as his Deputy.

The ceremony concluded with prayers, the final blessing and processional hymn, marking the end of another successful year for the St John’s College Academy.

Prizes were awarded to the folllowing students:

Grade 9

Mathematics: Marvin Agbahiwe

Grade 10

Mathematics: Franklin Nnanwobi

Geography: Michael Archary

Physical Science: Oreneile Mantu

Life Sciences: Azani Beyanda

Business Studies: Franklin Nnanwobi

Grade 11

Mathematics: Andile Masina

Geography: Divine Nyathi