Reddam House learners win Inspired Education's top global scholarship
The Inspired Education Group announced Zuri Conroy and Mackensie McKay as SA's newest recipients of the Nsouli Scholars Programme.
Conroy, from Reddam House Constantia, and McKay, from Reddam House Bedfordview, were selected after a rigorous selection process recognising academic excellence, leadership and co-curricular achievement.
Both girls began high school at Inspired's Reddam House schools in January.
As Inspired's flagship scholarship initiative, the Nsouli Scholars Programme was established in honour of Nadim Nsouli, the founder, chairperson and CEO of the Inspired leading global group of premium schools.
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The scholarship offers life-changing opportunities to exceptional learners globally who would not otherwise have access to join the Inspired Group.
It fully funds tuition and, where applicable, boarding for the duration of a learner's senior school years.
About 16 new scholarships are awarded annually across Inspired schools worldwide.
Conroy and McKay exemplify the core pillars of an Inspired education: Academic excellence, leadership and a strong commitment to co-curricular achievement in sports or the performing arts.
Both girls distinguished themselves through their resilience, determination and ability to inspire those around them.
'At Inspired, we believe talent should never be limited by circumstance,' said Nsouli.
'Zuri and Mackensie represent the future – determined, compassionate and courageous young women who are already making an impact.
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'We are proud to support their journeys and welcome them into our global community of schools.'
The Nsouli Scholars Programme supports up to 50 learners across Inspired's global network at any one time.
Conroy is driven by a strong academic discipline, particularly excelling in the economic and management sciences and mathematics. She is passionate about justice and aspires to become a lawyer.
Equally motivated by her values and purpose, she dreams of one day sponsoring a student through school.
When speaking about the scholarship, she said, 'I'm most excited about the chance to grow in academics and water polo and be part of a school that offers many opportunities. It's a fresh start where I can truly shine.'
McKay joined Reddam House Bedfordview as a Nsouli Scholar following an outstanding academic and sporting career at Bedfordview Primary School.
ALSO READ: Help Reddam House player represent SA for Rugby World Cup in Ireland
She was a top academic achiever, having been the Dux Scholar for five consecutive years, maintaining an average consistently in the high 90s.
She is also part of a team that won national titles and will compete in the World Championships in Germany this year.
Stephen Hazley, the executive head of Reddam House Bedfordview, said, 'Mackensie is an exceptional learner who embodies excellence, compassion and perseverance. She balances elite sport and academics with quiet strength and humility. We are honoured to have her at Reddam Bedfordview.'
McKay described the scholarship as an incredible opportunity that reinforced her belief in the power of hard work and focus.
'I want to keep improving. Whether it's gymnastics or school, I want to be the best version of myself every day,' she said.
'Being chosen as a Nsouli Scholar is my proudest achievement, along with being an SA gymnastics champion.
'I've trained for years to get here. My dream is to become a paediatrician and help children in Africa live healthier lives.
'That's where my heart is,' she added.
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