Al-Qalam 
Al Qalam Reporter
Jamila Janna, a former matric pupil of Phoenix Muslim School is making waves as a marine biologist and as an environmental filmmaker – her first documentary that she directed called Hluleka, was aired on SABC’s 50/50 show recently.
Staff and pupils of her former schools are naturally delighted at her admirable achievements. The Girls Campus Manager of Phoenix Muslim School, Mrs. R. B. Buckus, said Jamila had brought accolades and honour to the school.
Jamila and six of her colleagues were awarded an opportunity to produce a film in 2019 through NEWF (Nature, Environment, Wildlife and Filmmakers), WILD OCEANS, National Film and Video Foundation and KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission. Her first Marine Conservation themed documentary, Hluleka, highlights the plight of the Eastern Cape community’s issues regarding Marine Protected Areas.
“In her film, Jamila’s passion for the ocean and the community has revealed her talents and ability to accomplish her dream of resolving marine-related issues and to help conserve the beautiful oceans. She is an inspiration to all our learners, a true ambassador of our school and we wish her well in her future endeavours,” Buckus said.
Jamila completed her schooling career at Phoenix Muslim School where she matriculated in 2014. She has obtained her honours in Marine Biology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and is currently a Masters student at Stellenbosch University.
Phoenix Muslim School is an establishment of the Orient Old Boys Organisation, which consists of a group of philanthropic professionals. Since the School’s inception in 1999, it has become a beacon of hope to the diverse Phoenix Community and provides quality academic education with an Islamic ethos.
The vision of the school aims to empower the learners with critical skills and to nurture their talents to achieve their full potential through creative thinking.
“We attribute the success of the school to a dedicated team of educators, a compassionate Board of directors and the unstinting support of the Phoenix community.” Buckus added.
