For Zerena Barendilla, becoming a teacher was never simply a career choice but it was a childhood dream that remained firmly rooted in her heart for more than four decades.

Now, 42 years after entering the teaching profession, the 64-year-old Queen’s Park High School teacher has been recognised as one of the Western Cape’s top teachers.

Barendilla was honoured with the Excellence in Secondary School Teaching (Grades 8–12) award at the Western Cape National Teaching Awards Provincial Ceremony in Cape Town on Friday 28 August.

She was among 14 top teachers recognised at the ceremony, which celebrates educators whose innovation, passion and commitment help shape the lives of learners.

For Barendilla, however, the recognition represents much more than an award.

“It was a childhood dream. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. My parents thought maybe they could change my mind to choose a different career path. Back then there weren’t many career options. But I just knew I wanted to be a teacher,” she said.

Her journey began at Belgravia High School before she moved to Walmer Secondary School.

She later spent two years teaching at two schools in the United Kingdom before returning to South Africa.

Learner Relationships

Twenty-three years ago, she joined Queen’s Park High School in Salt River, where she has since become a much-loved figure among learners and colleagues.

When asked what she loves most about teaching and her answer is simple: the relationships she builds with her learners.

“To see the potential that they have and to nurture that and make them believe that nothing is impossible,” she said.

“Every learner in my class matters. Every effort that they put in matters. I believe that every learner has the potential to succeed.”

Over the years, Barendilla has taught subjects including Home Economics, Hospitality Studies and, more recently, Consumer Studies and Tourism.

It was her work in Tourism and Consumer Studies that ultimately led to her provincial recognition.

Five years ago, she was offered the opportunity to teach Tourism. Her results and dedication to the subject caught the attention of the Tourism curriculum adviser, who nominated her for the award.

For Barendilla, seeing her learners succeed has always been the greatest reward.

The subjects she teaches provide learners with practical skills and opportunities that can take them far beyond the classroom.

Many of her former learners have gone on to work in different parts of the world, including as chefs and waiters.

“I am still in touch with so many past learners and they are working in different parts of the world as chefs, waiters and different jobs. That is rewarding and fulfilling,” she said.

But teaching for more than four decades has not been without its challenges.

“Learners are not the same as they used to be. But you need to understand the challenges to be able to make things work,” she said.

She also points to a lack of resources as one of the challenges faced by schools, but believes teachers must find creative ways to overcome these obstacles.

Her ability to continue making a difference despite these challenges is what makes the recognition particularly meaningful.

“Winning this award still feels surreal. For me, after 42 years in education, the recognition has become more than just an award but a reflection of my journey and my childhood dream,” Barendilla said.

“My journey has been filled with purpose, passion, sacrifices but it has been a privilege to help shape lives.”

Her message is one she has demonstrated throughout her career: that every learner matters.

School Pride

At Queen’s Park High School, her achievement has been met with pride and excitement.

Principal Nicolene Abrahams described Barendilla as the school’s “celebrity” and said her influence extends well beyond the classroom.

“We are ecstatic. She is our celebrity. She has been at the school for over 20 years, and she is loved among the learners. She has a positive influence on their lives. We are rooting for her to win the national award,” Abrahams said.

Barendilla will now represent the Western Cape as she competes for the national title at the National Teaching Awards in Johannesburg later this month.

When asked whether she hopes to take the top spot nationally, she simply responds: “What will be, will be.”

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