As a “shy, nervous and awkward” Year 9 student, Aqsa Kothiwala never dreamed she’d become Head Girl. But the five years she has spent at ACG Parnell College have been, quite literally, transformative.
It has been the experience of a lifetime, giving Aqsa invaluable opportunities for personal growth and the chance to encourage others in the process.
“I have worked on my confidence a lot this year, and I’ve learnt to trust myself and my leadership style. Being Head Girl has helped me come out of my shell and develop my decision making and team working skills. But my biggest goal has been to make people feel welcome and inspire those who thought they could never be leaders.”
Aqsa began her leadership journey in Year 10 as part of the Middle School student council. Year 11 saw her join the Senior School student council, and, last year, she was a member of the prefect team.
“I feel lucky to have had all these different leadership opportunities. They have enabled me to make lots of new friends and leave my mark at ACG Parnell.” In addition to helping with ACG’s peer tutoring and the buddy reading programme, in her spare time Aqsa enjoys practising archery and playing netball and cricket.
“I’ve also been working towards my Duke of Edinburgh silver award, which has pushed me out of my comfort zone, developed my confidence, and taught me the importance of finding balance. I’m super-grateful I’ve been able to build these skills during my time at ACG and know they will be very useful in the future.”
Aqsa will soon say farewell to high school to take the next step in her learning journey – studying Biomedical Sciences at the University of Auckland. Until then, she plans to squeeze every ounce out of her ACG experience and her role as Head Girl.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at ACG Parnell. I have built relationships and memories that will last a lifetime, and I feel really lucky to have had these experiences and opportunities.”
If you’d like to know more about ACG Parnell College, please join us for our next Open Day on Saturday 17 October or visit parnellcollege.acgedu.com