Sharon Massop touched the hearts of fellow alumni when she shared this tribute to her beloved alma mater. In the poem titled "Mama Walton" (the name affectionately given to John Walton Secondary School), she reflects on moments in the school's history that have stayed with her throughout her life. The poem, written from the perspective of Grootboom, takes us back to a time that many regard as the golden years.

The first to the third stanzas tells the story of the school's inception and migration from its original location at the corner of Acacia avenue and Papegaai street (where C.W. Hendrickse primary is now situated) to its current location in Rosedale drive. Stanza 4 and 5 provides insight into the school environment from a learner's perspective, as well as the learner-teacher relationships at the time. Herewith, she manages to evoke feelings of nostalgia from those that had the privilege of being under the tutelage of the great educators mentioned. The strict, yet caring nature of teachers would ultimately create a learning environment that would foster success and excellence. In stanza 6 she reflects on John Walton's role in the liberation struggle and riots of the 80s and 90s, resulting in a visit by our late former president Nelson Mandela in 1993. Stanza 7 and 8 highlights the school's excellence in academics and sports. Around this time, the school engaged in fierce competition with neighboring schools and was known for producing strong rugby teams. She closes the poem with the school motto: "Sicitur Ad Astra', which roughly translates to "reach for the stars" or "journey to the stars" in a sign of undying love and solidarity to the school that helped shape her into the woman, citizen and writer that she is today.

Sharon has performed her poem at the "Woman of Africa" high tea in 2018, and in 2019 she was invited to be the guest speaker at the school's valedictory day. As a member of the alumni association group, she is showing that as we journey to the stars, we should always aspire to bring the stars within reach for the next generation.

Sicitur Ad Astra! #MamaSeKinders