Nishan Pillay, a 14-year-old from St Albans College in Pretoria, has been named winner of the third phase of Disney XD’s Aim High. Nishan beat stiff competition from entrants across South Africa, all vying to win a “once in a lifetime’ mentoring session with the internationally renowned South African cricket icon, Dale Steyn, currently the number one ranked test bowler in the world.
Disney’s XD’s Aim High is an initiative designed to inspire a generation of kids to get the most out of life, try new things and be the best they can be. In a first for Aim High South Africa, Nishan will be jetting overseas to claim his prize and will spend a day with Dale in London, learning the tricks of the trade and getting a glimpse of a day in the life of an international cricketer.
At the time of the mentorship day, Dale will just have completed the third test in the Protea’s Tour of England, a series that will determine the top cricketing nation in the world. The mentorship day will also be filmed with Nishan’s incredible experience being broadcast on Disney XD (DStv, Channel 304).
Nishan comments: “Words cannot express how excited I am. It has always been a dream to meet and play cricket with Dale Steyn – he is my hero! I am also a fast bowler and I would like to follow in his footsteps.’
Dale Steyn comments: “Having realised my own dreams in becoming a provincial and international cricket player, I have been motivated to inspire kids across South Africa to be all that they can be. I look forward to meeting Nishan and sharing with him some of the skills I’ve learnt getting to the highest level.’
Now in its third phase since its launch in 2011, Disney XD’s Aim High gives kids across the country the chance to win a series of mentorships in a different field to learn how to realise their true potential. Seeking inspiration from renowned musicians and sports stars, Disney XD’s Aim High gives kids everywhere the chance to do what they love and love what they do.
Previous mentors of the initiative include South African singing sensation Elvis Blue and Springbok rugby player Tendai “Beast’ Mtawarira. Aim High is also rolling out in the UK and Poland where mentors include international basketball players, premiership footballers and music stars.
Whatever the route, the important thing is to Aim High.
Visit www.disneyxd.disney.co.za/stunt/aim-high for more information.
