On the 11th of October 2025, Opal Students Empowerment Foundation proudly hosted its prestigious Academic & Excellence Awards at the elegant Olympus Manor, honouring the exceptional achievements of students across academics, leadership, sports, creativity, community impact, and personal development. The evening was a powerful celebration of perseverance, discipline, innovation, teamwork, and the transformative impact of mentorship. This annual event continues to shine a spotlight on individuals who not only excel in their respective fields but also embody the Opal Students values of integrity, responsibility, collaboration, service, and self-growth. From academic brilliance to artistic excellence, from sport to social impact, the ceremony paid tribute to students who continue to uplift their communities and represent the future of leadership in South Africa.

Celebrating Excellence Across Disciplines

In sports, all netball, men’s and ladies’ soccer teams were acknowledged for their dedication, discipline, and growth. Coaches were honoured for their exceptional mentorship, while players were celebrated for their resilience, skill mastery, teamwork, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Leadership and participation awards recognized individuals whose initiative, creativity, and passion for community engagement set them apart. These students demonstrated not only the ability to lead but also the courage to create opportunities, solve problems, and inspire positive change.

Academic excellence took centre stage with students rewarded for their intellectual curiosity, goal setting, consistency, and remarkable achievements in their 2025 examinations. Special categories highlighted creativity, innovation, style, and the arts—reinforcing the Foundation’s belief in holistic development.

Highlighted Award Categories & 2025 Winners

Management Special Awards

Recognizing students who have excelled beyond expectations, often making a mark in high-performance environments or representing their communities nationally or internationally.

Winners:

Atlegang Sathekge
Mandla Tebane
Kagiso Maponya

Influencer of the Year

Awarded to students who used their platforms to inspire, empower, and influence peers through positive messaging and engagement.

Winners:

Buhle Mahlangu
Nothando Sikhonde

Community Service Award

Honouring individuals devoted to serving others, uplifting communities, and leading impactful social contributions.

Winners:

Mampho Sele
Gontse Ledwaba
Siyamkela Tinzi
Athenkosi Yalwa
Amukelani Makhubela

Style Icon Award

Celebrating a student whose personal expression, confidence, and creativity reflect excellence in fashion and identity.

Winner:

Anold Mahobatlou

Visual Arts Excellence Award

Recognizing outstanding creativity, artistic skill, and innovation within the visual arts.

Winners:

Tshegofatso Masemola
Ika Virginia Pheladi

Wellness Champion Award

Honouring students who actively promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being, inspiring a culture of health within the Opal Students community.

Winners:

Precious Maroga
Thabo Thompson Molomo
Morora Johannes Molobi

Performing Arts Award

Celebrating exceptional talent and contribution to music, dance, drama, and performance.

Winners:

Matshepo Makgopa
Aimee McFarlen
Buhle Mahlangu
Anold Freedom Mahobatlou

Academic Achiever Awards

Overall Top Academic Achiever – 2025

Awarded to the student with the highest academic performance in the 2025 examinations.

Winner:

Duna Masisa

Top Academic Achievers – 2025

Highest Honor of the Evening

Opal Student of the Year Award

The most prestigious recognition, awarded to a student who embodies the true spirit of Opal—excellence in academics, leadership, community service, and personal growth.

Winner:

Mutshidzi Mphara

The 2025 Academic & Excellence Awards & Gala Dinner not only celebrated individual success but also reaffirmed the Opal Students Empowerment Foundation’s commitment to developing well-rounded, impactful young leaders. The Foundation continues to champion education, personal development, community service, and youth empowerment, ensuring that students have both the tools and the confidence to shape a brighter future.

The evening at Olympus Manor served as a beautiful reminder that when passion meets opportunity, excellence follows.