Leading with Purpose

The Class of 2026 stepped forward to accept the mantle of leadership at Wenona's annual Service of Commissioning yesterday.

They received their badges as a symbols of commitment to serve their School community in a ceremony that embodied Wenona's enduring motto, Ut Prosim, that I may serve.

Principal, Ms Linda Douglas, spoke powerfully about the diverse branches of Wenona leadership, acknowledging that each role reflects "the diverse nature of our student body, their strengths, their interests, and their talents". From Global and Arts Captains who foster creativity and connection, to Sports Captains who champion teamwork and resilience, each leader brings unique gifts to their position.

The philosophy driving this year's leadership team was evident in the words of the candidates themselves. Newly appointed Head Prefect Poppy, spoke of her vision for "a community where leadership isn't about telling people what to do, but about inspiring them to want to do it... where we work hard, laugh harder, and build something genuinely unforgettable". Her approach to leadership is grounded in optimism, teamwork, and what she cheerfully calls "a concerning amount of school spirit”. 

This reflects a refreshing authenticity that resonates throughout the new team.

Football Captain Abigail emphasised that "strong leadership starts with turning up and leading by example". From her weekly volunteering at a local public school library to her involvement in everything from Debating to House Drama, Abi understands that leadership emerges from authentic commitment rather than grand gestures.

The ceremony unfolded through distinct commissioning moments, with outgoing leaders presenting badges to their successors. Poppy was inducted as Head Prefect, supported by Deputy Head Prefects Emmy Grant and Isabel Klineberg, marking the beginning of a new leadership chapter shaped by their understanding that authentic leadership emerges from genuine service rather than position.

Perhaps the most moving moment came with the commissioning of the entire Year 12 class as leaders. Standing together, they pledged to "lead with Courage, Strength and Wisdom" and to "serve our School community with Kindness and Grace"—embodying Zara's reminder that Ut Prosim "will fulfil you and give back to you more than you put in".

This year's leadership appointments span an impressive range of roles, from Boarding Captain Sylvia and STEM Captain Sophie Creative Arts Captain and Athletics Captain Maya. Each positions represents not just the responsibility, but opportunity - the chance to shape School culture through daily choices and consistent example.

The service was also significant in its purpose of celebrating the 2024-2025 student leaders and thanking them for 12 months of exemplary service. As outgoing Head Prefect Zara said recently, Ut Prosim means "to serve with kindness, to serve with love, to serve knowing that all your contributions may be behind the scenes and seemingly go unnoticed". Her words reflect the quiet sense of individual achievement and collective responsibility that symbolise Wenona culture; the best leaders serve with heart, purpose and a commitment to their community.