Tsakani- Mahlatsi Mlengetshe, a former learner of Mbongeni Mgugudu Secondary School, distinguished herself as the school’s overall top achiever after attaining five distinctions in the 2025 matric examinations.Her results exceeded her own expectations and left her feeling excited, grateful, and overwhelmed.Mlengetshe obtained distinctions in Isizulu, English, tourism, history and life orientation.She describes her matric year as a roller coaster.“At the beginning of the year, there was excitement and anticipation of being in matric, but as the year progressed, I realised that success requires hard work, discipline and consistency.“I learned that the effort one puts in directly reflects in the results one gets.“Despite challenges and moments of pressure, matric became the best academic year of my schooling. There has been significant improvement compared to previous years,” explained Mlengetshe.She used different methods to achieve outstanding results and made it a point to sit at the front of the class to remain focused, listen carefully, and take detailed notes.Mlengetshe avoided last-minute studying, choosing instead to prepare before tests and examinations.
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“I also preferred studying alone, particularly at night, when the environment was quiet and free of distractions, allowing me to concentrate fully on my work.“The school provided support through morning classes and academic guidance, which played a role in my success.“My parents believed in me, although they were not always aware of the pressures and challenges I faced behind the scenes. Their belief in me, however, motivated me to continue pushing forward,” she said.“To learners preparing for matric, my advice is this: have clear and realistic goals, remain focused, and do not allow others to discourage you.“Believe in your abilities, stay disciplined, and remember that every effort you make today is an investment in your future.“I believe it is important to find study methods that work for you, put God first, choose friends wisely, and remain disciplined throughout the year.”
Mahlatsi Mlengetshe is proud of her achievement.
To those who did not achieve the results they hoped for, Mlengetshe encouraged them not to give up.She believes there is always a second chance and that giving up or losing hope only closes doors that could still be opened through perseverance and commitment.Mlengetshe plans to study law, inspired by her love for debating, politics, and justice.She hopes to represent people in her community who cannot afford legal services and wants to see justice prevail at all times.“My participation in debating in 2024 helped solidify my decision to pursue this career path,” she said.She thanked her teachers, from primary school through to Grade 12, for nurturing her potential and guiding her academic journey.
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She credits her teachers for helping her make important subject choices that improved her performance, particularly when she changed subjects and began excelling academically.“I believe that without the guidance and support of my teachers, achieving five distinctions would not have been possible,” she added.Outside the classroom, Mlengetshe dedicated most of her time to her studies and academic-related activities such as debating, coding, and public speaking.She had limited social activities, choosing instead to focus on her goals.Mlengetshe ends her schooling journey proud of herself, proud of her school, and proud to be part of the Class of 2025, confident that this achievement is only the beginning.
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