Westville Girls’ High Grade 12 pupil Parina Nathoo has been named the school’s 2026 Dux Award recipient after receiving 11 awards for her academic achievements.
Nathoo's academic prowess has also earned her a bursary to the University of Pretoria.
“I feel extremely proud of what I have accomplished. From Grade 8, I have been consistently placed first every year. I have always taken pride in my academics and strived to achieve my best,” said Nathoo.
She said her exemplary academic record was achieved by maintaining a balance between academics and a social life.
“I worked hard, and had good time management. I also made time for socialising with my friends and family, and participated in sport.
“I included time to enjoy my hobbies.”
When she’s not burning the midnight oil with her studies, Nathoo enjoys a game of tennis or padel ball with friends.
She also has an artistic side and finds painting relaxing.
Nathoo has set her sights on a career in mechatronic engineering, and plans to further her career as a specialist in biomedical engineering.
“I am fascinated about how engineering and technology can advance medical science. This can improve people’s quality of life,” she added.
Nathoo's 11 awards:
1. Merit Certificate for Leadership
2. The Panda Paint Award for Art theory
3. The Panda Paints Art Trophy
4. The Trophy for Excellence in Languages
5. The Vega Brand Builder Trophy
6. The Vega Creative Communicator Trophy
7. The Epoch Optima Trusts' Trophy for Excellence in Mathematics
8. 7. The Epoch Optima Trusts' Trophy for Excellence in Mathematics
9. The Life Westville Hospital Trophy for Excellence in Further Studies Mathematics
10. The Double Helix Life Sciences Trophy
11. English, Visual Arts, Maths and Further Studies Mathematics