Dylan Cooper and Mikayla Manak have already had a busy start to the academic year. Along with maintaining a clear focus on the final year of their A level studies and remaining dedicated to their extracurricular interests, Head Boy, Dylan, and Head Girl, Mikayla, have been overseeing the many activities organised by the team of 25 college prefects – and they are relishing the challenge. From Valentine’s Day Roses to Holi Run and inter-house athletics, the student leaders have started the year determined to ensure school is a place of fun as well as learning and have set some clear goals for the year to ensure they achieve that.

Both Mikayla and Dylan are keen to promote a more inclusive school community by strengthening communication between students and staff, encouraging collaboration and creating more meaningful connections between students. The introduction of a student council this year is a step towards achieving this. Led by Dylan and Mikayla, the council includes two students from each year level along with two international students. “It ensures a diverse range of voices are heard,” says Dylan.

Dylan, who joined the College in year 9, knew from an early age that he wanted to be a leader. “I had great interest in contributing to the school community and have always been eager to say yes to leadership opportunities and take on responsibilities.” He views his new role as “both challenging and extremely rewarding. Putting in the effort to organise events or introducing new initiatives and seeing the positive impact on others is one of the most fulfilling things ever.” Mikayla, who also started at Strathallan in year 9, agrees. She had always wanted to take on a leadership role, and being appointed house prefect last year gave her an opportunity to hone her skills. “My confidence in myself grew significantly,” she says. She sees being Head Girl as a privilege. “It’s an incredibly rewarding experience for me. I enjoy collaborating with everyone, learning from their experiences, and contributing my own ideas.”

Both value their involvement in extra-curricular interests as opportunities to connect with others while also developing key personal skills. Mikayla has been involved in netball, volleyball, touch rugby and the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge, and has also choreographed the school production, activities which she says “have not only allowed me to develop my teamwork and leadership skills, but also taught me the value of dedication and resilience.” Dylan plays volleyball, badminton and football, has represented the school in cross country and tennis, and has been involved in school productions, the jazz band and Epro-8.

Despite the busy-ness of their roles, their academic studies remain a priority, and they are both excited about the future. This year, Mikayla is taking A2 English Language, A2 Chemistry and A2 Biology, with a view to studying either medicine or the sciences at the University of Auckland, while Dylan is taking A2 Physics, A2 Chemistry, AS Computer Science, and AS Psychology and plans to study mechatronics engineering, also at the University of Auckland.

So, what advice would they give to other students at Strathallan who aspire to take on a leadership role? 

Mikayla: Get involved in as many school activities and extracurriculars as possible. They not only give you an opportunity to showcase your leadership skills but also help you create lasting memories and connections. High school years pass quickly, so taking advantage of these opportunities ensures you make the most of this time. 

Dylan: Being a leader begins before you attain the leadership role. A title doesn’t define a leader, it’s about being an active member in the school community, demonstrating responsibility, resilience, and integrity, building strong relationships with students and teachers, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Growth comes from challenges, so embrace opportunities to develop your skills, whether it’s doing the right thing even when no one’s looking or improving your public speaking.

Mikayla and Dylan are well aware of the responsibilities that come with their leadership roles but are excited about the opportunity to have a positive impact on the Strathallan community. We wish them well for the year ahead.