Meet Tyrese: From Quiet Beginnings to School Leadership
A Salesian student shares his journey of growth, confidence and finding his voice
At Salesian Institute Youth Projects in Cape Town, stories of growth often unfold quietly. Then, every so often, one stands out. Tyrese’s journey is one of those stories – a powerful reminder that confidence can be built, step by step, with the right support.
So, Hello Lifestyle sat down with Tyrese to talk about his experience, his challenges, and how he found his place.
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The Beginning Wasn't Easy
HLM: Take us back to your first year. What was that transition like?
TA: It was overwhelming at first. I came from a much bigger school, so moving into a smaller environment felt very different. On top of that, I had to adjust to the academic side and the Catholic structure, which was new to me.
At the time, I was also dealing with personal challenges. I had experienced bullying before, and I struggled with reading and understanding certain things. So, stepping into a new space like that was tough.
But slowly, things started to shift.
Finding Confidence Through Music
HLM: What helped you settle in?
TA: Honestly, the turning point for me was discovering the marimba group. At my old school, music wasn’t really something I connected with. We had a short flute programme, but that was it.
Here, it was different. My friends encouraged me to try marimba, even though I didn’t think I was musical at all. But once I started, I really enjoyed it. It became something I looked forward to — almost like an escape.
And just like that, something new clicked.
Reading Became Part of My Routine
HLM: You’ve also grown academically. What changed?
TA: The support from the teachers made a huge difference. They really encouraged me, especially with my language skills. Before, I wasn’t confident with reading or vocabulary. But then I started borrowing books regularly. I made time to read, even outside of school.
Over time, I could actually see the improvement. That gave me confidence. It made me feel like I was capable of more than I thought.
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More Than Just The Classroom
HLM: What about life outside of academics?
TA: That’s one of the things I love about the school. There are so many activities. It doesn’t feel limited, even though it’s a smaller environment. Marimba is still my main focus, but I also joined the soccer club. I already play soccer at home, so it felt natural.
Being part of those activities made the school feel like a second home. I wasn’t just learning – I was part of something.
Stepping Into Leadership
HLM: You’ve taken on leadership roles too. Was that always the plan?
TA: Not at all. In the beginning, I saw myself as more of a follower. I relied on others a lot. But then the opportunity to become class captain came up. I decided to go for it, even though it pushed me out of my comfort zone.
We had to campaign and take part in debates – it was my first time doing anything like that. When I was elected, I was honestly surprised. Hearing everyone cheer for me… that moment stayed with me.
That’s when things really changed.
The Dream of Becoming Head Bot
HLM: You’ve achieved something big since then. Tell us about it.
TA: From my first year, I had a dream of becoming head boy – or what I like to call “school president.” I worked towards it for four years. I focused on earning respect, staying committed, and doing my best.
When I was announced as a prefect, I was already shocked. Then Miss Carla asked if I would step into the role of head boy. That moment meant everything. When I got my badge, it felt like all the hard work had paid off.
A Journey Still Unfolding
Today, Tyrese stands with a quiet confidence that wasn’t always there. His journey reflects what’s possible when education, mentorship and opportunity come together.
And as he says it — with conviction and pride — it’s clear just how far he’s come:
He is a Salesian.
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