 The Class of 2004 from Alexander Road High School recently gathered to celebrate their 20-year reunion, a milestone event that not only marked two decades since their graduation but also honoured the lifelong connections forged during their formative years. Held at Tapas Bar and Restaurant in Walmer, the reunion was a night of reflection, celebration, and rekindling friendships that have stood the test of time.
A Legacy of Excellence: Alexander Road High School’s 69-Year Journey
As Alexander Road High School celebrates its 69th anniversary this month, the reunion served as a poignant reminder of the school’s enduring legacy. For nearly seven decades, Alexander Road High has been a beacon of academic excellence and a nurturing ground for countless successful individuals. The Class of 2004 is no exception, with notable alumni including SAFTA award-winning television actress Masasa Mbangeni, known for her roles in eTV’s Scandal and Netflix’s Blood and Water – Season 4; commercial and movie actor Grant Ross, recently featured in Netflix’s One Piece and The Kissing Booth, andDan Howitz, celebrated IRONMAN triathlete and successful local business owner. Delon le Roux, a former international model, and the reunion’s event organizer, has also made significant strides as a writer, project and event manager, and entrepreneur.
Reunion Committee: A Collaborative Effort
The reunion was meticulously planned by a dedicated committee, with Delon le Roux leading the charge as the event organizer. Alongside him, Mr. Kyle Ayrton Schimper and Mr. Kevin Philip Golightly, Staff Reunion coordinators, worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. Their combined efforts ensured that the evening was not only a celebration of the past but also an opportunity to strengthen the network of alumni who have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields.
The Role of Alumni Networking in Continued Success
In his heartfelt welcome speech, le Roux highlighted the significance of the event as more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. “Tonight is about more than just nostalgia—it’s a chance to reconnect with old friends, reminisce about the moments that shaped us, and reflect on the incredible journeys we’ve all taken since we matriculated,” he said. le Roux emphasized the power of alumni networking, urging attendees to share their experiences and explore opportunities to support each other in both personal and professional endeavours.
Generous Sponsors: The Backbone of the Celebration
The success of the reunion was bolstered by the generosity of several sponsors, whose contributions were instrumental in making the evening memorable. Donovan, Alicia, and the team from Tapas were praised for their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the event was executed to perfection. Chill Beverages, the official celebration partner represented by Justin Moore, provided Chateau Del Rei, , adding a special sparkle to the evening’s toasts. Mandy Leo, an Old Alexan from KWV, generously supplied complimentary drinks, while Christian Langeveld from Redbull energized the event as the official energy drink partner.
Lauren Nash, a serial entrepreneur and owner of 78 on Havelock, delighted attendees with her delicious sweet treats, and Lindt Walmer Park assisted with guest gifts that satisfied everyone’s sweet tooth. The contributions of Athurlene from Edgars Beauty Walmer Park, who provided skincare and perfume samples along with makeover vouchers, added a touch of glamour to the night. A special mention was made of Michelle Pearce-Nakatani, who, despite being unable to attend, generously sponsored a R5000 Lux Authentic voucher for the lucky draw.
A Night to Remember: Celebrating the Class of 2004
The 20-year reunion of the Alexander Road High School Class of 2004 was a resounding success, filled with laughter, memories, and the joy of rekindling old friendships. As the evening progressed, it became clear that the bonds formed during their school years had only grown stronger with time. The reunion was not just a celebration of the past but a testament to the enduring spirit of the Alexander Road High School community—a spirit that continues to thrive and inspire.
The alumni left the event with renewed connections and a shared commitment to supporting each other in the years to come. As they raised their glasses to toast the past two decades, the Class of 2004 looked forward to many more years of friendship, success, and shared memories.
PICTURE: Lauren Nash (2014 organizer), Alicia Tapas Manageress, and Delon le Roux (2024 Organizer)
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