By REGINALD KANYANE
Hoerskool Schweizer Reneke learner will be jetting off to the United State of America from 28 July to 2 August 2019. Onalenna Gaelejwe was chosen to be part of the Black Girls Lead conference that will take place at Colombia University in New York.
Gaelejwe said this is a golden opportunity for any black South African girl. She said being part of the global citizen will enhance her chances to achieve her dream.
“I am smart, phenomenal, hardworking and powerful. I am a deputy head girl in my school and therefore, I have accepted the great responsibility that has been placed on my shoulders. I am also part of the School Governing Body (SGB), so I am literally part of the decision-making panel and advise the principal on our learners’ behalf.
“I see every task assigned to me as an opportunity to truly act as a leader as well as to provide a service to my school. I am goal-driven and had accomplished a lot as a young woman. So far, I have achieved four academic trophies and receiving 32 certificates was amazing,” she said.
Gaelejwe (17) who is currently doing Grade 12 said she also does motivational talks. She said even though she participates in various sporting codes, education is still her first priority.
“I am a confident-built girl; therefore I do public speaking and represent my school through debate. My education is my first priority and I vowed to work hard to become part of the excellent group. I believe and thrive for brilliance.
“My role model is Oprah Winfrey and I know that I cannot change the world, but I want to leave it as a better place. So, it is up to us to ensure that we encourage each other to become better and leave the mark,” she said.
Gaelejwe added that she manages to juggle her books with sport so well. She said she played netball and hockey simultaneously for three consecutive years for her school without any hindrances.
“I am also a founder of a girl support group called My Sister’s Keeper. I am very proud of the initiative because as a black girl that leads, I saw a need in my school and acted on it. This program has encouraged many young girls to achieve their dreams and overcome their fears.
“This is a platform for many young girls to raise their challenges without any fear of reprisal. We tackle socio-economic issues including depression, peer pressure, self-image, sexual assault, and suicide. In 2018, I became a global citizen and formed part of the community that uses its collective voice to end extreme poverty by 2030,” said Gaelejwe.
She also did not mince her words and pulled no punches. Gaelejwe confessed that she is a feminist and said she drew inspiration from her mother and sister who groomed her to become a person she is today.
The Guardian 