Alaya Singh becomes only the ninth pupil in 30 years to receive Durban Girls' College's (DGC) prestigious white blazer, achieving honours in academics, music, and service. The Grade 12 pupil's achievements span multiple disciplines, showcasing dedication to excellence in education, community service, and cultural activities.
This is the highest honour awarded to a pupil, who has achieved honours in three out of four categories: academics, culture, service and sport.
The 17-year-old, of Musgrave, demonstrated excellence across multiple disciplines.
She achieved honours for music by the end of Grade 10. As a dedicated musician, she was a member of the KZN Youth Orchestra, played in the DGC orchestra for four years, and reached Grade 7 in piano through Trinity College London.
Her talent was recognised when she won the piano eisteddfod in 2023 and the DGC music competition’s piano recital in 2024. She also earned honours for service in 2024, reflecting her deep commitment to giving back.
Alaya has contributed extensively to the SPCA, the Domino Foundation, Anchor of Hope, Bhambayi Maths Club, and the South African Community Food Bank. She serves as a library monitress, vice head of the First Aid Committee, a member of the Environment Committee and a Computer Monitress.
In Grade 10, she represented the school on an international exchange.
In academic achievements, she achieved an aggregate of over 85% in Grade 11 and was awarded honours for academics this year. She has consistently participated in mathematics and accounting olympiads and serves as the vice head of the Academic Portfolio.
Alaya said she took this path after witnessing other white blazer recipients.
“Seeing the few girls in the older grades achieving the white blazer inspired me, from a young age, to strive for the same level of excellence. It took a lot of effort and focus. I worked consistently throughout my high school years. I always tried to find a good balance between academics, music and service. I am extremely proud of myself for persevering and not giving up. My advice to others is to Stay focused and work consistently from the beginning of high school, and believe in yourself," said Alaya.
In a statement, the school said: “This pupil embodies dedication, integrity, and leadership. Her unwavering work ethic, principled approach, and ability to balance academic excellence with a broad range of commitments make her a role model for her peers.
“She is thoughtful, diligent, and deeply invested in her school community. Her impeccable record, warm and gracious nature, and significant contributions both within and beyond the school set her apart."
Alaya hopes to study actuarial science at UCT next year.