Umar Vadi makes Lenasia Secondary School proud. Picture: Supplied
Matric is often described as a race, one where exhaustion and determination run side by side. For many students, it’s a year filled with pressure, deadlines, and late-night study sessions, but also one of resilience and discovery.
When speaking to an exceptional student, Umar Vadi from Lenasia Secondary School about his experience, it became clear that success in this final year isn’t just about intelligence, it’s about discipline, faith, and a strong support system.
Achieving seven distinctions, he credits much of his success to the unwavering encouragement of his parents and family, as well as the dedication of his teachers and tutors.
“The time and effort they put into teaching me and preparing me for the exams played a huge role,” he shared. Having a solid foundation of support made even the most difficult moments feel manageable.
Yet, there were times when the journey felt endless. The pressure, the workload, and the constant demand to perform could be overwhelming. But his advice to current matriculants is simple: focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.
“They should try to remain disciplined and push even harder in the final leg of their journey,” he emphasised. It’s in that last stretch, when exhaustion peaks, that perseverance matters most.
Like many students, he faced academic challenges along the way. At the start of the year, he struggled to achieve an A in English. Instead of accepting defeat, he took extra lessons and worked consistently to improve his marks. “Alhamdulillah, it paid off,” he said. His story is proof that improvement isn’t about instant results, it’s about effort and patience.
When it came to exam preparation, he found one technique particularly effective: past papers. “Going through numerous past papers worked best for me, especially for Mathematics and Physical Science.” Practicing under exam conditions helped him understand patterns, manage time efficiently, and build confidence before stepping into the real exam room.
Of course, stress was inevitable. But rather than letting it consume him, he turned to both preparation and faith. “One should adequately prepare for the exams and then place their trust in Allah,” he advised. “Whatever the outcome, it’s His plan, and He is the best of planners.” There’s a certain peace that comes with knowing that effort is in our hands, but results are in His.
Despite the demands of matric, he didn’t let his life revolve entirely around academics. He made time for activities that allowed him to recharge. “I’d spend some of my weekends jogging, hiking, or fishing…it helped me take my mind off the upcoming exams.” A reminder that rest isn’t a distraction; it’s a necessity.
As he prepares for university, he knows new challenges await. “I expect university to be both challenging and exciting. Matric has prepared me in some ways, but there’s still a lot I have yet to experience and learn from.” One of his biggest takeaways from this year is the importance of time management, not just for studying, but for maintaining a balance between work and personal well-being.
When asked what kept him going, his answer was immediate: encouragement. “The reassurance of my parents and friends gave me the motivation I needed.” Sometimes, a few words of support are all it takes to reignite the drive to push forward.
Looking back, he’s learned a valuable lesson: consistency is the key to success. His tutor, Mr. Azeem Hussain, constantly emphasized. “If you wish to achieve a goal in any faculty of life, you should consistently work towards it.” Success isn’t about talent alone, it’s about showing up, every single day.
And while he values academic achievement, he holds an even greater perspective. “Secular achievements are important, but as a Muslim, engaging in Islamic studies and excelling in that should always hold the highest level of importance.” A reminder that true success is measured not just by grades, but by growth, both in knowledge and in faith.
Matric is a test of patience, persistence, and perspective. And if his journey has shown anything, it’s that hard work, trust, and the right support can turn even the toughest challenges into stepping stones for the future.
