From tragedy to triumph: Ethan Naicker tops KZN matric results

ETHAN Neil Naicker, 18, from Port Shepstone Secondary School, has been named KwaZulu-Natal's top achiever for the Matric Class of 2025, despite facing profound personal loss.

He never expected to reach such heights, balance grief and academic excellence to become not only the province's best but one of South Africa's top 40 achievers.

At the KZN awards ceremony at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) yesterday (Tuesday), Ethan was visibly overwhelmed when he was announced as the province's top performer. He told the POST that the reality of his achievements had “not sunk in as yet”.

“To be number one is an incredible honour. But if I am being honest, I am in shock. I have not processed any of this as yet.”

Ethan said behind the accolades was a deeply personal journey marked by tragedy a month before his matric year.

He said he had suffered the loss of his cousin in December 2024.

“My matric year started with this profound loss. She was a sister to me … It was really challenging going into matric without her. On top of that, there was the usual matric stress and the overwhelming workload.”

Despite moments of self-doubt and emotional strain, Ethan said a strong support system helped him persevere.

“I had a lot of support from my family and teachers. They helped me move forward even when I doubted my own capabilities,” he said.

When asked how it felt when he heard his name being called at both the national and provincial awards ceremonies, Ethan said it was a “surreal moment”.

 “Everything happened one after the other. I am still in shock and still trying to process it all."

Ethan paid special tribute to his mother, who was present at the ceremony.

“A huge thank you to my mom for always supporting and pushing me. She has been my biggest supporter, even when I completely doubted myself.”

Reflecting on his academic journey, Ethan said he never imagined reaching this level of achievement.

“I knew I was okay at school, but I never thought I would be number one. I did not even expect to secure a spot at national level.”

Ethan completed his National Senior Certificate exams with a demanding subject load that comprised English, Afrikaans, mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, life orientation and accounting. 

He now plans to pursue a degree in medicine at UCT.

Offering advice to the Matric Class of 2026, Ethan emphasised consistency over cramming.

“Work consistently and smartly. You will be thrown assignments, tests, exams and projects all at once. Even just an hour of work a day goes a long way. There are days when you will not want to study. You just have to keep going, even when it feels overwhelming."

Cayden Packreeappen, 18, of Verulam Secondary, was placed third in the province.

“It is an amazing feeling to reap the rewards of my hard work. I never thought I would come this far. It feels so surreal. I am so proud of myself,” he said.

Cayden admitted he did not expect his name to be called.

“I really did not expect it at all. I always reminded myself that I only needed to do my best for myself and no one else.”

He credited careful planning and a strong support network for his success.

“I studied in advance, planned myself well, and I enjoyed the full support of my friends, family and teachers. They really kept me motivated.”

His subjects included English, Afrikaans, mathematics, physical sciences, life sciences, life orientation and IT, with mathematics named as his favourite subject.

“As long as you try your best, you have already won,” he advised future matric pupils.

"Just believe in yourself,” he said.

His mother Sureka said they were shocked to hear their eldest child's name be called. 

“As parents, we were super excited for him and proud. It has been overwhelming. When we heard his name being called, we were in shock and emotional. We also noticed Cayden’s shocked face. 

“We expected him to do well, but he surpassed that. We just want him to be happy. He worked consistently and was balanced in his matric year. He worked hard and played sports,” she said.

Cayden will study electrical engineering at UKZN.

Here are the Top 10 pupils in KZN:

1. Ethan Neil Naicker - Port Shepstone Secondary School 
2. Kuo-Kung Wang - Northwood High 
3. Cayden Packreeappen - Verulam Secondary
4. Owami Angoba Simesihle Khuzwayo - King Bhekuzulu High
5. Zenzele Mayenziwe Dube - Anton Lembede MST
6. Ruby Beukes - Ferrum High
7. Daelin Padavattan - Northwood High
8. Prudence Senamile Tabete - Mathubesizwe High
9. Jerome Naidoo - Northwood High
10. Hafsa Mansab - Ridge Park College

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