A Glimpse into 2026 - Where Branding Meets Character

What an incredible experience to present to the Grade 11 Kearsney College pupils on personal and business branding and then brief them on creating a House and Class Brand for 2026.

On Friday, 5 September myself, Terry Flack from Cannect Digital, Nomfundo Ndumndum, Marketing Manager for Highbury, and Tammy Fraser, Foundation Officer at Highbury Preparatory School had the privilege of hearing each House present their House Brands for 2026 to us.

Not only did they need to create the content, and compile the presentation but had to select who presented. I found it so interesting that each House chose three or four boys and Pembroke chose one person to represent them. Isn’t this, in itself, such an valuable exercise - these are the decisions they will need to make one day in a business environment.

Here are some of the standout points for me from each House:

• Finningley - I loved their tradition of shouting Finningley three times after dinner. They spoke about a holistic commitment to carry out their values of integrity, tradition and excellence, and actions like this play an important role in maintaining unity and camaraderie.
• Gillingham - for this House rejecting all forms of bullying was a priority. Their decision to deal with conflict through teaching and ensuring traditions are inclusive was impressive. Having games evenings with all grades in the House is something that the juniors can look forward to.
• Pembroke - they had me at the first slide of their presentation which stated ‘Our House, Our Home’. They mirrored Gillingham’s value of getting buy-in from all boys. Leading with strength and consistency is their objective. They understand that leading by fear does not create long-term respect and cohesion.
• Sheffield - being the Lighthouse of the school is the goal for this House and they ended their presentation with the fact that they will shine even brighter in 2026. They focused on healthy masculinity, courage, and Faith. One of their highlighted actions was evening devotions.

The common theme throughout the presentations was 'every voice will matter'. Terry, Nomfundo, Tammy and I were blown away, not only from a brand building viewpoint but from an emotional intelligence perspective.

The boys have enjoyed the privilege of working with the school's deputy head, Mr Nkuli Gamede, throughout this year on the importance of self-reflection and humility. To instil this in young men has and will have a lifelong impact.

Thank you Andrew Morgan, Wayne Voogt, Dave Goldhawk and Heather Pearse for your assistance. I had fun engaging with each of you to make this presentation relevant to the boys of the College.