
"The mark of a true leader is not in standing above the crowd but in lifting others alongside them."
With these words etched into our hearts, the prefects of Dundee High School embarked on what would become one of the most transformative journeys of our young lives. On Wednesday, January 8th, at 11 a.m., we departed from school, filled with excitement and determination, ready for a three-day leadership camp at Drakensville. Accompanied by our prefect parents, Mr. Bester and Mrs. Visser, and under the safe guidance of Mrs. Vogel behind the wheel, we set forth, not just toward Drakensville, but toward our futures as leaders
The serene beauty of the Drakensberg greeted us as we arrived, but nature's tranquility was soon matched by the thrill of our first challenge: zip-lining across a glimmering dam. Hearts raced, and laughter echoed, but the true lesson ran deeper than adrenaline. We discovered what it means to trust, in ourselves, in the gear holding us, and in the encouragement of our peers cheering from the banks. It was a leap of faith that became the metaphor for leadership itself: stepping boldly into the unknown while uplifting those around you.
Later that day, we were divided into five groups of six and tasked with an engineering challenge: to construct the highest tower capable of holding a bottle of water for five seconds using only sosatie sticks and tape. This seemingly simple task was an exercise in teamwork, resourcefulness, creative thinking, and resilience. As the towers wobbled and our patience was tested, we learned how essential collaboration and communication are in overcoming hurdles
Thursday brought a series of leadership challenges designed to test and enhance our problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work together under pressure. From tire-stacking races that emphasized planning and execution to the web game where members had to maneuver through rope-formed frames without repeating openings, each activity underscored the importance of precision, strategizing, and supporting one another.
One of the highlights of the day was an obstacle course where we were required to remain completely silent, with only two team leaders allowed to speak. The course tested not only our physical strength but also our ability to listen, follow non-verbal instructions, and trust our peers. Challenges like crawling through a mud trench, balancing on narrow beams, and alternating through a military-style tire sequence, reinforced the value of discipline, patience, and shared goals.
The remainder of the camp wove lessons into laughter: mastering the art of archery, devising ingenious ways to stack crates without breaching physical boundries, and composing thunderous war cries that made the mountains tremble. These moments reminded us that leadership is not merely about problem-solving but about celebrating victories, big and small, with those who journey with you.
As Friday dawned, we departed Drakensville with tired bodies but refreshed souls, carrying memories that will linger far beyond our prefect term. These lessons of trust, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership will become the foundation upon which we navigate this challenging yet rewarding journey of guiding Dundee High School.
This camp was not just an event—it was a metamorphosis. It was a journey into the depths of leadership, where our spirits were tested and forged into something stronger. We return ready to serve, ready to inspire, and ready to uphold the legacy of Dundee High School.
REPORTED by Nehal Ramgolam

