St Teresa’s School Junior Primary headmistress talks all things Women’s Month

St Teresa’s School Junior Primary headmistress Lynne Elfick reflects on her leadership role in light of Women’s Month.

Elfick said she has been headmistress for 11 years and learnt a few lessons,” To be true to yourself; to never compromise the values for which you stand; to delegate so that others have a chance to be a contributing part of the process.”

She said she tries to remain an example to the staff, parent body and especially the girls by being authentic, living out her faith, remaining true to good values and ensuring that the girls receive the very best education.

She added that women should certainly take up space in leadership. “Women are known for their high emotional intelligence, compassion and fairness, which are all vitally important when dealing with staff and being a role model. We enjoy collaboration, working together as a team, genuinely listening to one another and engaging each other’s strengths.”

Elfick defined Women’s Day as a celebration of the strength and power of women across the nation. “We have so many examples within our country of women who have made a difference for the greater good.”

She explained that the founders of the school, who so bravely acted against the apartheid system in the mid-70s by secretly bringing girls into the school to be educated, are people she is inspired by.

“If they were caught, the repercussions would have been enormous, but they stood firm for what they believed was right, and they acted upon their convictions. At the same time, they were actively and openly opposing the apartheid system to work towards a fair education for all.”

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