A bright future awaits 14-year-old Kendra Erin Abrahams, a high-achieving learner from Lotus River who has been selected for a prestigious Academic Achievers Tour to the United Kingdom (UK) and Scotland later this year.
Currently a Grade 9 learner at Sans Souci Girls’ High School, Abrahams earned her place on the 11-day tour after achieving an impressive 76,4% overall average at the end of last year.
Her academic excellence was further recognised at her school’s recent awards ceremony, where she received five subject awards and a merit award.
For Abrahams, who was born in Hanover Park and now lives in Lotus River, the opportunity represents far more than just travel.
“When I found out I was selected, I was shocked and excited at the same time. It made me feel like all my hard work paid off. It also showed me that I can dream bigger and that my future can be more than what I see around me every day,” she said.
The tour will expose learners to some of the world’s most renowned institutions, including University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University of Edinburgh and Queen Mary University of London.
Participants will attend lectures, explore historic campuses and engage with global academic environments.
“I’ve only ever seen places like that on TV. I want to experience it in real life and imagine myself studying there one day,” Abrahams said.
Despite the excitement, the opportunity comes with a significant financial challenge. The total cost of the tour is R82 000, covering travel, accommodation and programme fees. Through savings and fundraising efforts, the family has raised R31 000, leaving an outstanding R51 000.
“As parents, you never want your child to miss out on an opportunity like this because of money,” they said. “We’ve had to make sacrifices and stretch ourselves, but seeing how hard she has worked keeps us going.”
They describe Abrahams as disciplined, focused and determined — qualities shaped by her upbringing.
“Growing up in Hanover Park and Lotus River taught me to stay focused and work hard for a different future. It made me stronger,” Abrahams said.
Beyond academics, Abrahams is actively involved in leadership and community activities, serving on her school’s Representative Council of Learners and participating in church outreach programmes. She also enjoys netball, swimming and creative pursuits.
“This is not just about helping one child,” they said. “It’s about investing in potential and showing young people that it is possible to rise above circumstances.”
Abrahams agrees. “Thank you for supporting me and my dream,” she said. “I promise to make the most of this opportunity.”
Donations can be made via her BackaBuddy campaign.
To support Abrahams’s campaign, visit: www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/academic-achievers-scotland-and-england-tour-2026.
