The Uitenhage High School community came together recently to honour the memory of 14-year-old Shemeeque Gia Davis, a Grade 8 pupil who tragically took her own life, leaving the school in what officials described as “unfamiliar territory.”
The school created a dedicated space in its foyer for students, staff, and visitors to pay tribute to Davis, who had been enrolled at the institution for only a few months before her untimely death.
A well-attended memorial service was held at the Uitenhage Congregational Church, where school officials, local dignitaries, and fellow pupils gathered to remember the young student. Mark Williams, Principal of Hoërskool Uitenhage High, addressed the gathering with a poignant message about child protection.
“We are grateful for the support for the passing of our learner who had been with us for only a couple of months,” Williams said during the service. “So much more needs to be done to protect our children, and to guide them to become the leaders they ought to be in future. A combined effort is needed to set a good example, and to protect them from evil.”
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Speaker of Council, Councillor Eugene Johnson, attended the memorial service and offered words of comfort to the grieving family, school, and community.
“Shemeeque Davis’ passing has left many questions in our hearts. Life, as we know, is like a mighty sea – unpredictable, often stormy, and at times filled with sorrow,” Johnson said. “In moments like these, we are reminded that we may not always understand why things happen, but we are called to hold on to faith.”
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Mayor, Johnson added, “This tragedy is a very sad loss, so we’re here to support and also motivate the teachers and fellow learners, especially because of the manner in which she died.”
The school’s rugby team paid a moving tribute during their match against Humansdorp Secondary School, carrying a poster of Davis across the field as they entered.
Following Davis’s funeral, which was held on May 24, the school’s Representative Council of Learners (RCL) organised a special assembly to mark Mental Health Awareness Month, an initiative that took on added significance in the light of recent events.
The assembly began with a rendition of the song “Everybody Hurts,” serving as a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles. The programme, directed by RCL Vice-President, Tristan-Lee Hill, featured posters created by council members to raise awareness visually.
Linathi Niyki, President of the RCL, spoke about the importance of discussing mental health openly and seeking help when needed. Fellow RCL members Shanley Smith and Lerayll Connon emphasised the need to prioritise mental and emotional wellbeing alongside physical health.
Edwardo Rank, RCL Treasurer, delivered a powerful message about valuing mental health in everyday life, whilst a poem titled “Uitenhage Ontwaak,” written by Josephine Steyn, was recited by educator, Elton Dennis, who had led the assembly.
In a statement following the events, the school expressed gratitude to all who had offered support during this difficult period.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all individuals, schools, and institutions who have reached out with their condolences and support. Your kindness and compassion mean so much to us during this difficult time,” the statement read.
The school also specifically thanked Davis’s family for allowing the school community the opportunity to honour and remember her in what they described as “a meaningful and respectful way.”
As the school continued to process this profound loss, they concluded their Mental Health Awareness Month activities with a quote from psychologist Noam Shpancer, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.”
The school pledged to continue fostering “a culture of empathy, understanding, and wellness, not just in May, but every month of the year,” as they navigated the challenging aftermath of losing one of their own.
• If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, reach out to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG). Trained counsellors are there to help and refer you to local counsellors, facilities and support groups. Call their 24-hour toll-free emergency helplines on 0800 567 567.
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