St Mary’s DSG Welcomes New Staff
St Mary’s DSG Welcomes New Staff Members
St Mary’s DSG is delighted to welcome four outstanding new members to its academic and arts departments, further strengthening the school’s commitment to excellence in education and the performing arts.
Segomotso Masego Shupinyaneng – Classical Vocal Coach
The school proudly introduces Segomotso Masego Shupinyaneng as its new Classical Vocal Coach in the Performing Arts Centre. Segomotso’s journey in music began with her professional training at Gauteng Opera, which set the foundation for her Bachelor of Arts in Music at North-West University.
Following her studies, she joined the Young Artist Programme at Cape Town Opera, refining her craft before furthering her education at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama in the United Kingdom. While in the UK, Segomotso performed in various opera scenes, taking on lead roles such as Cendrillon in Viardot’s opera of the same name and Lucy in Menotti’s The Telephone.
Her most recent engagements include performances at the 2022 Glyndebourne Festival, where she was part of the chorus in celebrated productions such as The Wreckers (also featured at the BBC Proms), Le nozze di Figaro, La bohème, and Don Pasquale.
Keemetswe Tlaka – Educational Psychology Specialist
In addition to welcoming Segomotso, St Mary’s DSG is pleased to introduce Keemetswe Tlaka, who brings a unique and valuable perspective to the school community. Currently, in the final stages of completing a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology at the University of Pretoria, Keemetswe is deeply passionate about learner emotional well-being and inclusive education practices.
She strongly commits to creating a safe and nurturing environment and strives to empower every learner to reach their full potential. Her expertise in educational psychology will be invaluable in supporting the holistic development of students at St Mary’s DSG.
Dr Marieke Krynauw – Further Studies English Teacher
St Mary’s DSG also welcomes Dr Marieke Krynauw, who joins the school’s Further Studies English teaching team. Dr Krynauw has spent the last few years teaching English at the University of Pretoria but is eager to return to a traditional classroom setting. Her passion for literature is driven by the belief that books, poetry, and art introduce students to new worlds and perspectives while encouraging critical thinking and self-reflection.
Her expertise and enthusiasm for English will undoubtedly enrich students’ academic experiences and foster a love for literature and storytelling in the classroom.
Lynique Krüger – Visual Arts Department
Finally, St Mary’s DSG extends a warm welcome to Lynique Krüger, who joins the Visual Arts Department. Lynique is an alumna of the University of Pretoria and is currently completing an honours degree in Curriculum and Education Development in the Arts. Passionate about artistic expression, she continuously pushes herself beyond her comfort zone to explore new creative possibilities.
An avid educator, Lynique adores teaching and draws inspiration from the classic film Dead Poets Society. She also admits, with a smile, that she has yet to master the skill of riding a bicycle!
As the school continues to foster a culture of artistic and academic excellence, the arrival of these talented professionals marks an exciting new chapter. St Mary’s DSG looks forward to their contributions and the inspiration they will bring to the students and the broader school community.
