For this week’s Meet the Pupil, we’re excited to introduce Donya S from Collinson House, who began her journey at Mill Hill International and is now thriving in her final year at Mill Hill Sixth Form.

We caught up with Donya to hear about her experiences at Mill Hill and her leadership responsibilities.

Tell us about yourself…

I’m passionate about helping others improve their physical well-being and aspire to study Physiotherapy to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I’m currently the captain of the Girls’ Basketball team, where I encourage and motivate my peers to participate in sports. I also serve as a Senior Monitor, a role that involves leadership, public speaking, and working closely with school leadership to drive positive change. Balancing my academic pursuits with my leadership roles and love for sports has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of teamwork.

Have you ever taken on a leadership role in school, and what did you learn from that experience?

Yes, I have held several leadership roles, including being the Captain of the Girls’ Basketball team, a Senior Monitor, and a Prefect in Year 11. These experiences have taught me how to communicate effectively, inspire others, and take responsibility for team dynamics and school initiatives. I’ve learned the importance of listening to others’ perspectives and leading by example, especially when motivating peers or addressing challenges.

Are you involved in any school clubs or societies? What do you enjoy most about them?

I’m actively involved in sports, particularly Basketball and Badminton. As the Captain of the Girls’ Basketball team, I enjoy the sense of community and teamwork that sports bring. I love encouraging others to participate and seeing how team spirit and perseverance can lead to growth and success, both on and off the court.

What is your favourite subject?

My favourite subjects are Physical Education and Psychology. PE allows me to understand human movement and performance, which aligns with my interest in physiotherapy. Psychology fascinates me because it explores human behaviour and mental processes, which I find crucial for understanding how to support and motivate others effectively.

Who is someone you look up to, and what do you admire about them?

I look up to leaders who demonstrate resilience, empathy, and a commitment to helping others. In my roles, I’ve been inspired by mentors who balance authority with approachability, showing that effective leadership is about serving and uplifting those around you.

If you could give one piece of advice to younger pupils in school, what would it be?

My advice would be to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to remember that setbacks are just stepping stones to success. Staying motivated involves setting realistic goals, seeking support when needed, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It’s important to find activities you’re passionate about, as they provide purpose and a positive outlet during stressful times.