Potchefstroom’s Rising Star: How 14-Year-Old Lemeese Williams Is Heading to Dubai for Learning and Discovery

At just 14 years old, Lemeese Williams of Potchefstroom Girls High is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime. A journey that blends academic enrichment, career exploration, and cultural discovery. From 4 to 12 December 2025, she will travel to Dubai as part of a programme designed to broaden young learners’ horizons and connect them with opportunities abroad.

This initiative is spearheaded by The Company Travel and Sports, which partners with schools across South Africa to create international learning opportunities. Their mission is to expand children’s perspectives about their future careers by exposing them to institutions beyond South Africa’s borders.

A Scholar Destined for Greatness

Lemeese has already distinguished herself as one of Potchefstroom Girls High’s top learners. She received an Academic Achievement certificate in Grade 8 and earned distinctions in Economic Management Sciences and Creative Arts. On top of her academic brilliance, she is a passionate tennis player with dreams of becoming a paediatrician.

Her mother, Marcell Williams, says the Dubai programme comes at the perfect time, “This trip is about so much more than travel. It’s about learning, career inspiration, and seeing what opportunities lie beyond our borders. We believe it will spark something in Lemeese that she can carry into her future.”

Universities Beyond Borders

Only 16 learners were selected from Potchefstroom Girls High for this global programme. They were given three universities to explore:

• British University of Dubai

• Heriot-Watt University

• Middlesex University

Ten learners, including Lemeese, will go to Dubai, while five others will head to the USA. The academic itinerary includes three private lectures and in-depth campus tours that will allow learners to see what it’s like to study internationally.

But the programme also balances education with cultural immersion. Learners will enjoy a guided city tour, visit landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, splash around at Wild Wadi Waterpark, enjoy a desert safari and BBQ dinner, and even experience Ferrari World.

According to Marcell, this balance is exactly what makes the initiative so valuable. “The children get to learn and explore careers, but they also see the world outside South Africa. It’s both an educational gain and a cultural experience, which broadens their perspective.”

The Price of a Dream

The cost of the trip is R58 990 per learner, which includes:

• 7 nights of hotel accommodation

• Daily breakfasts and dinners

• Three private lectures

• Guided excursions and university visits

On two or three days, learners will cover their own meals.

The Williams family has been determined to raise the funds. With her father, Captain Dawie Williams of the South African Police Service, and her mother by her side, they paid a R6 500 deposit upfront and have been contributing monthly.

Fundraising has been a true community effort. The family sold biscuits at church, received donations from their church ministry, and had support from local community members. The media has also played a crucial role, with Shane Davis from Eersterus in Pretoria, Sheryl Mudly from Radio Pulpit, and Liezl Smith from the Kuiermet Liezl Smith Podcast helping to spread the word.

Even so, they still face a shortfall of R17 000 that must be covered by the end of September 2025.

Marcell reflects on the journey so far, “We are so grateful for every single person who has helped us. From those who bought biscuits at church to those who gave donations or shared our story, it has all made a difference. Now we just need that final push to help her get there.”

How to Contribute

For anyone moved by Lemeese’s story, donations can be made directly to the following account:

• Account type: Cheque account

• Account number: 407 084 5967

• Bank: ABSA

• Branch code: 632005

• Reference: 24TA3 POT LK WILLIAMS

Why It Matters

Educational travel programmes like these are about more than sightseeing. They give learners the chance to dream bigger, think globally, and return home inspired. For Lemeese, the opportunity to step inside international universities is a crucial step toward her goal of becoming a doctor.

Her mother sums it up best, “This trip will shape her outlook on life and show her what is possible. As parents, we have done all we can, but we need the community’s help to cross the finish line. It’s not just about Lemeese, it is about showing all young people that their dreams are valid and achievable.”

With just R17 000 left to raise, the community’s support could make the difference between a dream deferred and a dream fulfilled. And as December draws closer, the countdown to Dubai is not just for Lemeese, it is for everyone who believes in the power of education to change a young girl’s future.