It is with great pride that we introduce Alexandra Okoye as the Head Girl of Jeppe Girls for 2025! Alex is the fourth Head Girl elected from the Ruth First cohort in the last five years, and her election is well deserved! Alex first came to the attention of the Ruth First Trust when her Principal at Kenton Primary nominated her for the scholarship. Her application stood out immediately. Her Principal’s words painted a vivid picture of a remarkable young girl: "What she lacks in size she makes up for in courage and determination … an extraordinary athlete … works extremely hard … a top achiever." It was clear that Alex possessed the grit and ambition that aligns with the core values of our scholarship programme.
While Alex may have had a small stature in Primary school, once she reached Jeppe Girls she grew physically, standing head and shoulders above her peers, as well as used every opportunity available to grow holistically as well. We caught up with Alex in the middle of her first few weeks on the job.
Throughout high school you have had the chance to hone your leadership skills, what roles have you fulfilled in the last five years?
I was elected RCL for my class from Grade 8 to 11, I was a sub prefect for two terms in Grade 11 as well as the First Team netball Captain. I am now the Crassula House Captain and Head Girl.
What do you enjoy about being a leader?
I enjoy being able to guide my peers/ team in the right direction so that we can all reach a common goal in the end. I also enjoy having the ability to come up with innovative ideas that can benefit or progress the school.
What do you find difficult about leadership?
With leadership comes a great amount of responsibility and, in turn, comes its challenges. The difficulties I experience are having to dedicate extra time for these responsibilities, time that could be used for something else, and there may be situations where certain things might not be going in the right direction. Sometimes it is overwhelming having to come up with solutions whilst everyone is voicing their frustrations or feelings. But, in the end, with a little grit and determination, the challenges can be overcome.
You are a fantastic sportswoman, which Provincial sports teams have you made?
The U14, U15 and U17 Gauteng netball teams and the U15 Central Gauteng Athletics team.
How has being awarded the Ruth First Jeppe Memorial Trust scholarship changed your life?
It has truly been a blessing for me as it has alleviated the financial strain for my family that comes with education, while still giving me the best platform possible to get a well rounded and high quality education. It is more than just a scholarship, it has really opened doors for me and given me opportunities that would have never been possible.
What has been your favourite part of high school?
My favourite part has definitely been growing and maturing into a young adult that I feel is prepared to prosper in the future. High school opened new doors for me to learn new skills, find out my strengths and discover new interests. I have also been able to meet and form close bonds with my friends and peers that I can cherish beyond school.
What/who helped you the most to get to where you are today?
My faith, rooted in God, as He has been the reason everything has been made possible and His guidance has set me in the right path. He constantly watches over me, provides for me and protects me which is the reason I have been able to succeed in life.
My parents have done an amazing job raising me with good morals and a good work ethic. This has shaped me into the person I am today, they have been supporting me from the beginning and have constantly guided me in the right direction so that I can reach my full potential and have a successful future.
The Ruth First Trust has given me so many opportunities and outlets where I have been able to learn and gain new experiences. The Saturday Mentorship Programmes are always a day I look forward to as it is a time where we can unwind from the overwhelming and stressful week with the fun group activities with my fellow Ruthies and mentors.
Lastly, my Ruth First donors, Advansys, have truly paved the way for me to have a successful future by enabling my education.
Is there anything you can't do (tongue in cheek)?
(Laughs) This might come across as a shock, seeing as how I am quite an avid sportsperson, but I actually can't swim! I'll try my best to work on that in the future.
You mentioned your donors, Advansys, is there anything you would like to say to them?
With the utmost gratitude there isn't a sufficient amount of "thank yous" I could give to Mr. Greaves and the team from Advansys for the opportunities they have given me.
Without their trust in me to succeed in high school, I would not even be at Jeppe Girls, and I am truly grateful for their support in my journey and in the way they have acknowledged and recognised my achievements.
We are so proud of the young woman you are Alex. It is a joy to see you thrive!
Robyn Hill
Manager: Ruth First Jeppe Memorial Trust
Comentarios