Hillside Secondary School stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, the late Lonnie Kalua-Manduwi. Lonnie’s journey was one of breaking barriers, pioneering new paths, and passionately advocating for education. Her story is not just about the establishment of a school, but about a life devoted to empowering others through knowledge and opportunity.
Lonnie Kalua-Manduwi was a trailblazer from an early age. She grew up in the city of Blantyre, and she had a deep love for the waters of Lake Malawi, a passion that led her to become the first female marine captain in the country’s history. Her pioneering spirit and determination shattered gender norms and opened doors for other women in the maritime industry. Lonnie’s success as a marine captain was only the beginning of her journey.
After years of navigating the waters and commanding ships, Lonnie transitioned into academia, bringing her wealth of knowledge and experience to the Marine College of Malawi. As a lecturer, she was not just an educator but a mentor, inspiring countless students to pursue their dreams with the same tenacity and courage she embodied. Her commitment to education was evident in her approach to teaching; she believed in nurturing curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and instilling a sense of responsibility in her students.
Lonnie’s career in education continued to flourish when she took on the role of Principal at Gracious Secondary School. There, she implemented innovative teaching methods and worked tirelessly to improve the school’s infrastructure and academic standards. Her leadership was characterized by compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to her students’ success.
In 2010, driven by her enduring passion for education and her desire to create a more significant impact, Lonnie Kalua-Manduwi founded Hillside Secondary School and Excel Primary School in Mangochi. She envisioned these institutions as places where young minds could flourish, where education was not limited to the classroom but extended to developing life skills, leadership qualities, and a sense of community. Lonnie believed that every child deserved access to quality education and that through education, they could transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
Hillside Secondary School, under Lonnie’s guidance, quickly became a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development. The school’s curriculum was designed to balance rigorous academics with extracurricular activities, fostering well-rounded individuals prepared to face the challenges of the future. Lonnie’s legacy lives on through the dedicated faculty she mentored, the innovative programs she established, and the countless students whose lives she touched.
Excel Primary School also reflected Lonnie’s educational philosophy. She believed in laying a strong foundation in the early years of a child’s education, emphasizing the importance of nurturing creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning from a young age.
Lonnie Kalua-Manduwi’s impact extends far beyond the walls of the schools she founded. Her story is one of resilience, vision, and an unyielding belief in the power of education to change lives. Through Hillside Secondary School and Excel Primary School, she has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and uplift the community of Mangochi and beyond.
As Hillside Secondary School celebrates its milestones and achievements, it does so in honor of the remarkable woman whose dream and dedication brought it to life. Lonnie Kalua-Manduwi’s passion for education has created a ripple effect, empowering generations of students to dream big, work hard, and make a difference in the world.
