The Drakensberg Boys Choir School (DBCS) has appointed
respected strategist, reputation consultant and governance adviser Willem S
Eksteen as Chairperson of its Board.
The appointment marks a new chapter for one of South Africa’s most distinctive independent schools as it intensifies its focus on musical excellence, learner recruitment, long-term sustainability and the continued development of boys through its unique integration of music, academic prowess, sports and Christian values. Elected at the School’s Annual General Meeting on August 3, 2026, Eksteen succeeds Dr Terence G Sibiya, whose exemplary tenure as Board Chairperson concluded at the end of July following more than a decade of leadership and service to the School.
The appointment represents an important step in leadership continuity as the School builds on a strong foundation of governance while preparing for its next phase of sustainable growth. The Board remains committed to ensuring that Drakensberg Boys Choir School continues to rank among the world’s leading centres of musical excellence while providing an outstanding holistic education that develops boys intellectually, spiritually, physically and creatively.
Building on an
extraordinary legacy
For more than ten years, Dr Sibiya helped guide the school through a period of sustained strategic development, characterised by integrity, humility and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the School’s unique mission. The Board expressed its sincere appreciation for his outstanding contribution and the lasting impact he has had on the governance and long-term direction of the institution.
Reflecting on his years of service, Dr Sibiya said: “It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve the Drakensberg Boys Choir School over more than a decade. I am deeply grateful to every Board member, Executive Head, member of staff, parent, learner, alumnus and supporter who has walked this journey with me.”
Congratulating his successor, he adds: “Willem has served the School with integrity, wisdom and genuine passion over the past few years, and I have every confidence that he will lead the Board with humility and a servant heart. I wish him, the Board and the entire DBCS family God’s richest blessing as they continue building on the remarkable legacy of this extraordinary institution.”
A leader deeply
invested in the School
Eksteen brings extensive strategic leadership experience together with a longstanding personal commitment to the School. He first became involved when his son joined as a Drakie New Boy and soon after served on the Drakies Parents’ Association before joining the Board in August 2023, where he has served as the Board Director responsible for Marketing and Fundraising, helping strengthen the School’s strategic positioning, stakeholder engagement and fundraising initiatives.
Professionally, he is the founding Chief Executive of Stone, a strategy, communication and marketing consulting firm he established in 2008. Holding qualifications in both Law and Journalism, Eksteen has advised South African and international organisations on strategy, governance, leadership, stakeholder engagement and organisational transformation.
Accepting his appointment, Eksteen pays tribute to his predecessor. “Dr Terence Sibiya has set an extraordinary standard of leadership and leaves very big shoes to fill. On behalf of the Board and the entire DBCS community, I thank him sincerely for his wisdom, humility and exceptional service.”
Describing the role of Chairperson as one of stewardship rather than status, Eksteen says: “Leadership is never about position. It is about service. Our responsibility is to serve this remarkable institution with humility, unity and wisdom, always placing the interests of the School and every boy entrusted to our care ahead of our own.”
Securing the School’s
future
Looking ahead, Eksteen said the Board’s immediate priorities will centre on growing learner enrolment, strengthening donor partnerships and ensuring the School remains financially sustainable for generations to come.
“As an independent school, Drakensberg Boys Choir School receives no public operating funding. Our long-term sustainability depends on school fees together with the generosity of donors, alumni, parents, companies, foundations and friends who believe in the transformative work of this remarkable world-class institution. Growing learner recruitment and expanding fundraising are therefore among the Board’s highest strategic priorities. They are investments in safeguarding one of South Africa’s greatest cultural and educational treasures.”
Eksteen says the School offers a unique educational proposition that extends far beyond the internationally acclaimed Drakensberg Boys Choir. “Parents choose Drakensberg Boys Choir School because it develops well-rounded young men. Our world-renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir programme is complemented by strong academics, competitive sport, Christian values, leadership development and a healthy boarding school life within the magnificent mountain environment of the Central Drakensberg. Few schools anywhere in the world offer such a distinctive and holistic educational experience.”
Calling on the wider DBCS community to unite behind the School, he adds: “Every parent, alumnus, donor, supporter and friend has an important role to play in securing the future of Drakensberg Boys Choir School. Together we can ensure that future generations continue to benefit from an education that changes lives through music, character, academic excellence and service.”
Executive Head Hendrik Bekker welcomed Eksteen’s appointment, describing him as a leader who understands both the School’s heritage and its future. “Willem understands that the strength of Drakensberg Boys Choir School lies in the unique balance we achieve between world-class musical excellence, outstanding academics, competitive sport, character formation and healthy boarding school life. His strategic leadership and high work ethic will help ensure that this distinctive school model continues to flourish for generations to come.”
Reaffirming the School’s enduring purpose, Eksteen concludes: “Our motto, ‘Music is our Ministry’, must continue to guide everything we do. If we remain faithful to our Christian values, united in purpose and committed to excellence, the future of this extraordinary School will be every bit as inspiring as its past. Let us continue working hard with a good attitude.”
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