Johannesburg – An old video of St Stithians College learner Cameron Waldeck-Cooks discussing her student exchange experience in the United States has resurfaced following her death.
The 17-year-old is believed to have died in a suspected murder-suicide involving another teenager, Ethan Coetzee, a former matriculant, in Mpumalanga.
The video shows Cameron speaking about her student exchange programme in the US, where she spent time at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta.
Reflecting on the experience, she said she felt “safe and welcomed” and described the trip as feeling like “I’m in the movies.”
Cameron said one of the highlights of the exchange was driving with her new friends, noting that the legal driving age in the US is 16. She also enjoyed attending football matches and spending time with fellow students.
The two teenagers’ bodies were discovered at a lodge near the Sabie game reserve in Mpumalanga about a week ago.
Their deaths have prompted an outpouring of grief, with social media users describing Cameron as having had a “bright future” that was tragically cut short.
Cameron was a Grade 11 student at St Stithians Girls College and was working towards the Gold level of The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment, part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
Her family said she had recently completed a five-day hiking expedition as part of her efforts to achieve the award.
She was also involved in rowing and netball and was described as a “natural leader” and a “big sister” by those who knew her.
Ethan, who matriculated in 2025, was a member of his school’s first-team rugby club and a national champion in equestrian Eventing. He was also described as a respected senior student at Penryn House.
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The President’s Award said it was aware that the circumstances surrounding Cameron’s death were being investigated and pledged to assist authorities where required.
“The safety and well-being of every young person who participates in The President’s Award is of paramount importance to us,” the organisation said.
It added that it would “continue to work closely with our partners, volunteers, schools and the relevant authorities” to ensure the programme remains a safe and supportive environment for young people.
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Picture: Facebook/Derrick Cooks
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Compliled by Betha Madhomu
