Ellen Duneside's Dux learner
A true example of excellence
Duneside High School announced Ellen Shatilwapo as the DUX learner of 2025 - a title that crowns her years of hard work, leadership and dedication.
Ellen’s journey at Duneside is nothing short of inspiring. Having been part of the school since pre-primary, she has grown up in its classrooms and hallways, becoming a symbol of consistency and achievement.
From Grade 1 to AS-Level, Ellen has remained in the top five of her class, a remarkable record that reflects not only her intelligence but also her strong sense of discipline. She believes that success comes from hard work, balance and a genuine love for learning. “It wasn’t always easy,” Ellen admits. “There were times I felt overwhelmed, but I always reminded myself of my goals and remained focused."
Ellen describes Duneside as her second home. Having been there since her earliest school days, she has shared her learning journey with classmates and teachers who have watched her grow from a shy little girl into a confident young woman. “The school shaped not only my academic growth but also my character. It taught me discipline, teamwork and the value of leadership.”
Leadership has always been a big part of Ellen’s school life. In 2024, she served as head girl. Beyond the school walls, she was also CEO of the Junior City Council, where she used her voice to represent young people in her community. Her leadership extended to sports and creativity as well: she was an active netball player and a dedicated member of the media team, proving that excellence is not limited to academics alone.
Despite her many achievements, Ellen remains humble and grounded. She often mentions her mother as her greatest inspiration. “She taught me to stay humble and always give my best in everything I do,” she says. “My teachers have also played a huge role; they believed in me even when I doubted myself.”
When asked for advice for younger learners, Ellen encourages them to believe in themselves. “Never compare yourself to others. Everyone’s path is different. Stay focused, work hard and don’t be afraid to fail. Every mistake is a lesson. And most importantly, enjoy school. It goes by faster than you think.”
Reflecting on her school years, Ellen describes her Duneside journey in one word: unforgettable.
Ellen’s journey at Duneside is nothing short of inspiring. Having been part of the school since pre-primary, she has grown up in its classrooms and hallways, becoming a symbol of consistency and achievement.
From Grade 1 to AS-Level, Ellen has remained in the top five of her class, a remarkable record that reflects not only her intelligence but also her strong sense of discipline. She believes that success comes from hard work, balance and a genuine love for learning. “It wasn’t always easy,” Ellen admits. “There were times I felt overwhelmed, but I always reminded myself of my goals and remained focused."
Ellen describes Duneside as her second home. Having been there since her earliest school days, she has shared her learning journey with classmates and teachers who have watched her grow from a shy little girl into a confident young woman. “The school shaped not only my academic growth but also my character. It taught me discipline, teamwork and the value of leadership.”
Leadership has always been a big part of Ellen’s school life. In 2024, she served as head girl. Beyond the school walls, she was also CEO of the Junior City Council, where she used her voice to represent young people in her community. Her leadership extended to sports and creativity as well: she was an active netball player and a dedicated member of the media team, proving that excellence is not limited to academics alone.
Despite her many achievements, Ellen remains humble and grounded. She often mentions her mother as her greatest inspiration. “She taught me to stay humble and always give my best in everything I do,” she says. “My teachers have also played a huge role; they believed in me even when I doubted myself.”
When asked for advice for younger learners, Ellen encourages them to believe in themselves. “Never compare yourself to others. Everyone’s path is different. Stay focused, work hard and don’t be afraid to fail. Every mistake is a lesson. And most importantly, enjoy school. It goes by faster than you think.”
Reflecting on her school years, Ellen describes her Duneside journey in one word: unforgettable.
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