Subcouncil 14 proudly welcomed a truly exceptional young woman at its first meeting of the year — the top 2025 SA learner with special education needs (LSEN).
Subcouncil 14 honored Takunda Muchuweni, former Jan Kriel School learner who achieved seven distinctions in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations on Wednesday 21 January.
Despite being wheelchair-bound due to congenital myopathy — a rare muscle disorder — a determined Takunda has shown that physical challenges are no barrier to academic excellence, often persevering through severe pain during lengthy examination sessions.
Recognition
“I would like to extend a special word of congratulations to Takunda Muchuweni, who has been recognised as the top learner for special educational needs in the country,” said Subcouncil chair Johannes van der Merwe.
Ward 11 councillor Wouter de Vos, presented Takunda Muchuweni with flowers on behalf of the subcouncil and City. 
Subcouncil 14 chair Johannes van der Merwe presented Takunda Muhuweni, Jan Kriel School and the country’s best matriculant with special education needs (LSEN) with a certificate of recognition from the subcouncil and City of Cape Town. 
Subcouncil 14 chair Johannes van der Merwe and Takunda Muhuweni, top LSEN matriculant of 2025 who was presented with a certificate of recognition from the City of Cape Town. 
Subcouncil 14 officials with Takunda Muchuweni at the subcouncil meeting on Wednesday 21 January in the municipal chambers in Kuils River.
“We are immensely proud of her extraordinary achievements.” He also noted she had previously served as a Junior City Council member.
Van der Merwe described Takunda, who received flowers and a certificate of recognition from the subcouncil and City of Cape Town, as “an example of what can be achieved.”
The young woman’s remarkable achievement was first announced at the Department of Basic Education’s Ministerial Matric Awards in Randburg, Gauteng on 12 January, a prestigious national recognition that came as a complete surprise to her.
READ MORE: Kuils River matriculant shows excellence has no barriers
Looking ahead
“We are proud of her and want to wish her all the best on the road ahead,” Van der Merwe said.
Tamari Muchuweni, who accompanied her daughter, admitted her heart was bursting with pride.
Takunda aspires to become an industrial psychologist. With her demonstrated resilience and perseverance she is well-equipped to achieve her goals and inspire many along the way.
