Tuesday evening was spent doing interviews and watching elegance swirl at the end of of a ramp – that while trying to place a nominal numerical value on the shown comfort of their own skin. What would I know about judging one from another? I did have four panelists beside me, all seemingly more confident with the task at hand. But the night was thoroughly enjoyed as something of a reminiscence escapade to school days filled with dreams and expectations.

I spent two years in Worcester Gymnasium, before relocating to Stellenbosch in the December of 2000. Many moons since last walking down the passage ways, a short walk that brought back a few flash memories – of a locker room and the most beautiful girl who had one on my side to cramming agricultural science in the quad corner during first break.

The task was impossible really, but much enjoyed.

Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.

Crazy days – what lies ahead of youth unbeknown to them. Their life’s talent and calling yet to be discovered. The school system is such a limited box, not wrong nor right, simply just is what it is. To so many in the interviews I wanted say: Just be patient, you’re nearly free to set sail to far off places you couldnt dream. But then, perhaps there are some who’d tell me the same today…

The highlight of my night: A school boy doing three songs during an interim invited a girl to join him on stage, for “One in a million”, on condition that she would fan his sweating brow with a programme. Many girl started screaming, enthused hands flying in the air like a kite about to break loose, while one girl, Elana I think, made her way forward as if this moment was predestined. Turned out she was comical, a shy yet confident expression of humour at herself and the now flattering song directed at her. I’ve not been in uncontrollable hysteria like this, as if tickled no end by 100 feathers from head to toe. She was like watching a music video, simply too good.

(Not the best clip, but captures some of their interaction. So funny.)