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Grade Eight RCL Election
Tueday 4 February
The hall fills with girls, pens intact and ready to elect the three girls who are to
represent them - to be their voice - for their grade 8 year. Mr Burrell whistles for
attention over the loud noise of clicking pens. The eight girls who are running for office
are seated on the stage. I see myself in them: determined, willing and passionate, and I
realise it wasn't very long ago that I was one of them - young and new to the world of
high school. Now, having put myself in their shoes, I realise how difficult it must be for
them to talk to such a huge crowd of people, and still try to persuade them that they are
indeed the best person for the job. I have always, and do to this day, believe that
Wynberg is a very democratic and fair school. The canvassing for the RCL positions has the
feel of a normal governmental election.
Just as I begin wondering why the nominees seemed so calm, Mrs Harding walks in and the
girls' nerves become very apparent. The nominees are introduced, excluding one girl who is
unaware she has been nominated. How is this, I think to myself, if the nominee has to sign
the nomination herself, before it can be used? Each girl has two minutes to "sell
herself". They begin their speeches, each carefully thought through. The girls speak
clearly and articulately. Important points are mentioned: such a leadership,
communication, commitment, mediation and friendship. Phrases from their speeches such
"Life is a mission, not a career," echo in my thinking later in the day
Brittany is the first to step up and as the next candidates follow, I am reminded that
these bold girls, young students are just Grade Eights, right out of junior school. Their
speeches encouraged me to think otherwise: they are very impressive.
Now, down to the voting. Girls can vote for a maximum of 3. All swarm around the teachers
at the election tables, and me, to snap a picture of them for the web.
Those elected are Ralene Adams, Sharon Green and Maxine Jones: congratulations to these
girls who will now have the chance to turn their promises into reality.
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