Presented to the top 3 Drostdy Hall students with the best overall academic
performance from the final results 2024, who were in first year in 2024, and are resident
in the Hall in 2025:
Presented to the top 3 Drostdy Hall students with the best overall academic
performance from the final results 2024, who were in second year in 2024, and are
resident in the Hall in 2025:
Zintle Kave of Allan Gray House - 78.88%
Christabel Makuba of Prince Alfred House - 73.20%
Priyasha Naicker of Allan Gray House - 71.33%
Presented to the top 3 Drostdy Hall students with the best overall academic
performance from the final results 2024, who were in third year in 2024, and are resident
in the Hall in 2025)
Sbahle Gamede of Allan Gray House - 80.44%
Kabelo Sopeletsile of Celeste House - 74.64%
Thapelo Maluleke of Prince Alfred House - 67%
*To note that Graham House students do not feature as Graham House was not an active residence in 2024.
The First Year Academic Award was presented to Jessica Smailes, of Allan Gray House, for achieving 81.25%. This award is presented to the first year student with the best overall academic performance from the mid-year examinations.
The Second Year Academic Award was presented to Siphokazi Hlela, of Allan Gray House, for achieving 76%. This award is presented to the second year student with the best overall academic performance from the previous November examinations and from the mid-year examinations.
The Third Year Academic Award was presented to Priyasha Naicker, of Allan Gray House, for achieving 70.20%. This award is presented to the third year student with the best overall academic performance from the previous November examinations and from the mid-year examinations.
As there is no academic award for the postgrad students of Celeste House, there is the Celeste House Student of the Year Award. This year the award was presented to two Celeste House students for their contribution to the residence:
Thanduxolo Mbambo
Mr Mambo has been an invaluable presence in Celeste, combining dedication, humility, and commitment to the community. As Sports Representative, he played a key role in ensuring Celeste’s strong participation across six different sports codes, with the residence celebrating victories in both tennis and rowing. His personal dedication was evident not only in his consistent availability to support every sporting event but also in his own participation in inter-hall competitions, even persevering through injury.
Beyond the sporting arena, Mr Mambo actively contributed to the broader life of Celeste. He attended every residence event, served faithfully on the selection committee for next year’s Residence Student Assistants, and offered thoughtful input in both house committee and residence meetings. His efforts reflect a deep commitment to making Celeste not just a residence, but a home for others as well.
With his genuine approach, willingness to serve, and consistent engagement, Mr Mambo has embodied the values of community, excellence, and participation. It is with pride and appreciation that we present him with the Celeste Award.
Tlotlang Gasekoma
As Wellness Representative, Ms Gasekoma has distinguished herself through her creativity, commitment, and care for others. She raised awareness of important wellness issues by designing initiatives such as decorating ribbons to highlight invisible disabilities, collaborating with on-campus peer educators to organise a hike, and distributing wellness challenge cards to encourage healthy habits in everyday life.
Beyond her portfolio, she availed herself generously in supporting house events, whether ensuring practical needs were met or actively engaging with residents through activities like bingo and movie nights. Her collaborative spirit strengthened the committee’s work and fostered a sense of community.
Currently a master’s student in the Department of Sociology, Ms Gasekoma embodies a love of learning and service. She approached her role not only as a responsibility but also as an honour, reflecting her deep interest in health and wellbeing. In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the life of the residence, we are proud to present Ms Gasekoma with the Celeste Award.
The Hall Cultural Award was presented to Indiphile Mcingana, of Allan Gray House, for her outstanding achievements in Instrumental Music.
The Sportsperson of the Year Award was presented to Elomso Mboniswa, of Prince Alfred House, for her achievements in Women's Rugby. This award is presented to the best overall sportsperson of the Hall who has shown commitment, dedication & excellence in Rhodes sports in various sporting domains.
The Hall Leadership Award was presented to Priyasha Naicker, of Allan Gray House, for excellence in leadership.
This student has exemplified the essence of leadership and academic excellence. A top academic achiever within Allan Gray, she has gone above and beyond in her commitment to the residence and hall, always present and readily available. This student has been a safe house of support for her peers, offering care and stability simply through her presence.
During her time in the hall, she organised Women’s Day gifts and dedicated herself to keeping the notice board vibrant and informative. Her reliability and genuine care for others have made her a shining example of what it means to lead with integrity, heart, and steadfast presence.Her commitment to living the values of Drostdy Hall embodies the very spirit of the Drostdy Hall Leadership Student of the Year, and it is with great pride that we announce Priyasha Naicker as this year’s recipient.
Last Modified: Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:29:50 SAST