From classrooms to stardom: how Rayyan Ebrahim became SA’s top learner
Meet Rayyan Ebrahim, a young South African who is nothing short of a trailblazer.
At just 19 years old, he recently earned the prestigious title of South Africa’s top learner — a gift that arrived just after his birthday on January 3rd.
Rayyan’s remarkable achievement is not just about the accolades; it’s about the story, the journey of consistency and a balanced life that led him to this point.
Rayyan’s academic career began at Pinelands Primary, also known as The Blue School.
As a primary school learner, he was already on a winning streak.
“I was generally a top achiever, always placing in the top three,” he recalled.
But for young Rayyan, it wasn’t about being the best — it was simply the norm.
“I never really understood it at the time. I just thought, okay, I am doing well.”
But beneath this casual approach, there was a quiet determination, shaped by his two older sisters, who were his role models.
“I always thought they are so cool when I watched they study with their books and markers. I wanted to be like them,” Rayyan said.
He attributes his good study habits to his siblings: “Consistency, prioritizing sleep, and sticking to a plan that became my mantra and learning that the most studying happens while you are in the classroom.
“But overall I would say it runs in the genes,” he joked with a sense of pride, explaining that he also drew a lot of encouragement and strength from his faith and parents.
“Both my parents are former teachers who met at Grassy Park High during apartheid. They taught me how to figure things out, guiding me without giving me the answers outright.
“They allowed me to work things out myself- which helped me in the long run,” the proud Rayyan said.
But, Rayyan’s path was not without its hurdles.
During his matric year, he faced the heartbreaking loss of his aunt to cancer.
“I had to navigate through losing her, we were close. She would’ve been so proud,” he reflected.
He however put all that energy into his love for learning, writing and also walks with his mom, who he enjoys spending quality time going for walks along Sea Point.
“Writing is an outlet for me to express my feelings,” he said
His talent in writing is evident, with three of his poems published in English Alive, a collection featuring the best 50 high school students across the country.
Although his academic focus has been clear, there’s no rush for romance.
“No girlfriend, that wasn’t on my priority,” he said with a smile. “We’ll see how it goes after high school,” he laughed.
As for his future, Rayyan has chosen to journey into the world of Data Science, studying at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
He also received offers from the Universities of Stellenbosch and Western Cape, as well as University of Johannesburg.
“Choosing between business and science wasn’t easy, that's why I decided on Data Science because it's a perfect blend between the two fields.”
Reflecting on his journey to becoming South Africa’s top learner, Rayyan describes the moment he was announced among the top 30 as a blur.
“I didn’t fully comprehend it at the time. My heart was beating fast, and I just told myself, ‘shake the minister’s hand, collect the certificate, and don’t fall!’” he laughs.
Rayyan also shared his secret to achieving good results: “I realized it’s about consistency. Focus on living a balanced life, and that’s when you’re at your best.
“I also found that the most effective way to study depends on your learning style. Whether it’s visual learners creating mind maps, using colour coding, or auditory learners listening to YouTube videos and repeating content aloud.
“I never worked excessively, I believe it's about pacing. I made sure to go to sleep early,” he explained.
His proud mother, Dilnawaz Ebrahim, sums it up best: “He made it easier for us to raise him.
“We never had to stand behind him. He always wanted to do his homework, never cried to not go to school. I’m so grateful.”
For her, seeing Rayyan walk across the national stage as the top Learner, was a very emotional moment for her.
“It’s like his whole schooling journey was flashing before my eyes. I could see him from nursery school to high school, I felt so proud. I just wish him the best.”
As for girlfriends, Ebrahim playfully said: “They're going to have to stand in a line…”
Ebrahim also wished the rest of the matric class of 2024 a very prosperous road ahead.
Rayyan’s school principal, Graham Sayer, couldn’t be more proud of him. “Rayyan and Matthew (ranked number two) are excellent examples of hard work and perseverance.
“We are really grateful to them for the example they’ve set, and we hope that this will be emulated by future students.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za