A no-nonsense disciplinarian with a heart for children. This is how Hazel Manuels, former principal at Kensington High School, will be remembered.
Manuels, who officially retired last month, left the school in March 2024 due to ill health following a 20-year career at the school.
She died in hospital on Sunday 8 March due to an illness.
Chantel Steyn, acting principal, told People’s Post Manuels made history in 2017 when she became the school’s first female principal after serving as the deputy principal.
“When she was appointed as the deputy principal it motivated us to believe that anything was possible. There were always criteria to become a senior manager, but she broke those barriers,” explained Steyn.
According to Steyn the late Manuels always encouraged staff to give their best.
“She pushed us to achieve and do our best. She had high expectations of us. And her heart and interest were always with the learners.”
A memorial was held at the school on Thursday 12 March where learners and teachers shared fond memories of their beloved principal.
Photos of and messages for Manuels were pinned on the school’s notice board.
Steyn describes Manuels’ death a “loss to education and a loss to our school”.
“She was our leader during the Covid-19 pandemic. It wasn’t just about work; she was invested in our personal lives. And prayed for us when we needed. She was more than just a colleague.
“She was an active leader in her church and a woman of faith. Everything was always about putting God first. She loved discipline, education and children.”
Former learner, Albert Matthews said Manuels always saw the best in him.
“I was one of those learners who was always up to mischief, and she was my Afrikaans teacher at the time. She would always share something good and positive with me.
He explained that he was almost expelled from school on one occasion, but Manuels intervened.
“She said, ‘no let’s give Albert another chance’. After that meeting, she told me that she saw potential in me and that I should make something of my life. Today I am a married man and an associate pastor at our church.”
Matthews urged everyone to continue her legacy.
“I thank God for a woman like her who was able to be there for me at the right time. I thank God that she was able to see the fruit of her words and seeing me as a changed man. Let’s continue to live on her legacy by seeing the best in each other.”
Manuels’ funeral will be held at the AFM church in Blackheath on Saturday 21 March.
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