Celebrating Sithethile Sgwentu's Graduation and Future in Theatre and English

There are moments that make you stop and smile. This is one of them.

Sithethile (Tilly) Sgwentu has officially graduated from the IB Diploma Programme at Hout Bay International School, and it’s a milestone worth celebrating loudly and proudly. Supported by the CHELO bursary programme since primary school, Tilly’s story is one of commitment, grit, and what becomes possible when talent is met with long-term belief and support.

Photos shared with permission from Tilly.

Thirteen years in the making

Tilly’s journey with CHELO began thirteen years ago. From primary school, through five years of middle school, and into the demanding final two years of the IB Diploma Programme, she has shown up consistently, even when the road was tough.

CHELO itself was founded in 2007 by HBIS parents who believed that access to world-class education should not be determined by circumstance. As a registered non-profit and B-BBEE Level 1 organisation, CHELO exists to open doors for children from previously disadvantaged communities in Hout Bay. Tilly is a powerful example of what that vision looks like in real life.

The partnership between CHELO and HBIS has given her access to a rigorous, globally recognised curriculum that challenges students not just academically, but personally. The IB Diploma is not for the faint-hearted, and completing it is a serious achievement.

What the IB Diploma Programme demands (And gives back)

The IB Diploma Programme requires students to juggle six subjects, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, alongside Theory of Knowledge, a 4,000-word Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity and Service commitments.

It’s intense. It’s demanding. And it’s designed to stretch how students think, question, research, and engage with the world. IB graduates go on to universities across the globe, and more importantly, they leave school with strong critical thinking skills and a deep sense of independence.

Tilly met that challenge head-on.

What's next for Tilly

With school behind her, Tilly is now looking ahead to the next chapter. She has applied to Stellenbosch University to study Theatre and English, a choice that feels beautifully aligned with her creativity, voice, and academic strengths. Storytelling, performance, analysis and expression are all part of who she is, and these fields give her space to grow those talents.

She has also applied to AFDA as a backup option, showing not only ambition, but practicality and foresight. It’s a thoughtful approach to shaping a future in the creative industries.

Why support like CHELO matters

Tilly’s success didn’t happen in isolation. Alongside her own hard work, CHELO’s support has played a crucial role, financially, educationally, and emotionally. Mentorship, encouragement, and stability matter just as much as school fees, and this kind of long-term investment changes lives.

Stories like Tilly’s remind us why access to education is one of the most powerful tools for social change. When opportunity meets potential, everyone benefits.

Looking ahead

As Tilly steps into university life, she carries with her more than a qualification. She carries years of perseverance, community support, and self-belief. Her journey is an inspiration to younger CHELO students, to educators, and to anyone who believes in the transformative power of education.

We are incredibly proud of you, Tilly. We can’t wait to see where your voice, creativity, and determination take you next.