Leonis House

Dear Leonis and St John’s Community,

I would like to begin with a story about Nelson Mandela. When he became President of South Africa after years in prison, the country was divided, full of anger and mistrust. Instead of leading with revenge, Mandela chose to lead with unity. One of the most famous examples occurred during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Rugby was seen at the time as a sport for only one part of the population, but Mandela wore the jersey, supported the team, and brought the nation together. It showed that true leadership is not about power – it is about lifting others up and bringing people together, even in difficult times.

That is the kind of leadership we value here in Leonis. This year, we have seen so many moments of teamwork, resilience, and spirit, moments where we have backed each other, cheered until we lost our voices, and shown that Leonis is about more than results. It is about unity.

Now it is time to start thinking about the future. To the Year Elevens – 2026 is just around the corner, and two of you will be standing up here as House Captains. I encourage you to seriously consider applying. Being Captain is not about having all the answers or being the loudest voice in the room. It is about supporting your House, encouraging people, and carrying forward the Leonis spirit.

If you are sitting there thinking, “I am not sure if I am the type,” then you probably are. Because leadership is not about being perfect. It is about caring enough to give it a chance, and being willing to step up when your House needs you. Leonis does not need one style of leader; it needs people with passion, energy, and heart.

I will finish with a reflection. When I think about my time in Leonis, it is not just the wins I remember – it is the small moments. The times when someone picked up a teammate who was struggling, or when the whole House rallied around with our massive posters and House spirit. Those are the moments that show what Leonis is really about. And those are the moments I know our next leaders will create and carry forward. Someone who is not just out front, but also walking alongside their housemates.

It has been an honour being the last Captains representing the House name ‘Leonis’, alongside Miss Kemp and Sean. I want to thank both of you.

So, Year 11s – this is your moment. If you have the heart, the courage, and the drive, then step up and apply for House Captain 2026.

Thank you.

Quratullane Ali – Leonis House Captain

Dear Leonis and St John's Community,

I still cannot believe how fast this year has gone by. It feels like only yesterday that Quratullane and I were stepping into our roles as Leonis House Captains. Now, looking back, I am so proud of everything we have achieved together.

This year has gone by so quickly, and it has been an absolute privilege to serve as Leonis House Captain. Looking back, I am proud of everything we have achieved together, especially at Athletics, where we finished second and took home the House Spirit Award. 

Those moments showed what makes Leonis special: our pride, teamwork, and determination. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the people I have been lucky enough to work alongside. To Quratullane, I thank her with all my heart. I thank her for being the best Co-Captain I could have asked for. Her amazing leadership skills and the positive energy she brings to the school – it has been an absolute privilege to lead Leonis with her. And to Miss Kemp, our outstanding House Coordinator – I thank you for your constant guidance and encouragement. Your belief in us has kept Leonis strong and united all year.

Now, to the Year Elevens who will soon step into Year Twelve, you are the future of Leonis (or Chisholm). Some of you will be the next House Captains, and I want you to know it is one of the most rewarding roles you will ever take on; it is truly worth it in my opinion. My advice is simple: lead with passion, support your House, and remember that leadership is about lifting others up. Leonis has such a strong spirit, and I know you will carry it forward with pride.

As we finish the year, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for trusting me in this role, for giving your all in every event, and for making Leonis not just a House, but a family. 

Together, we have proven that the spirit of Leonis is alive and well, and that Leonis will always be the heart of St John's.

Thank you.

Sean Pascual – Leonis House Captain