Our Clifton Old Boys’ Association recently caught up with Old Boy and former College Head Boy, Max Koenig (Class of 2015), who is currently living and working in Cape Town, for a short Q&A.
Max recently returned to campus to record the Centenary song, and his story is the latest feature in our series ‘From Our Old Boys’ Network’, where we celebrate the journeys and achievements of our Old Boys. He opens up about his path from Clifton to where he is today, sharing his successes, cherished memories, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
How did you end up where you are now? And where to next?
It’s been a long road since school to get to where I am today. After five exciting yet challenging years at Stellenbosch University, followed by three years of audit articles with BDO Cape Town, I am now just a few months away from qualifying as a CA(SA). It has been a journey of ups and downs, but every step has been worth it. Along the way, I’ve met incredible people from across the country and the world, and I’ve been fortunate to enjoy some unforgettable experiences. Highlights include touring Llangollen (“hlang-goth-luhn”), Wales, with the world-renowned Stellenbosch University Choir, and being part of the first non-European team to compete at the Annual BDO International Five-a-Side tournament in Prague last September.
As my contract with BDO Cape Town comes to an end, I’ve been asking myself the big question: “what next?” After years of intense studying and work, I’ve decided to take a break from the professional world and dedicate much of next year to revisiting my passion for music.
During varsity, I formed a band called ‘Red Sheep’ with a friend from Res. We quickly became a prominent Afrikaans band in the greater Stellenbosch area – a bit ironic for a through-and-through Durban boy! Later, we were signed by South Africa’s largest Afrikaans record label and artist management company. That period was packed with gigs and tours across the country, until the Covid pandemic slowed things down, and we cut back on performances to focus on our careers.
With my articles ending, I’m excited to throw myself back into music -writing and recording by day, performing live by night, and fitting in plenty of golf, fives football, and beach days along the way.
Looking ahead to late 2024, I’m in the final stages of signing a contract with BDO Netherlands to work at their Amsterdam office. I’m thrilled at the prospect of living in Europe for a few years after some much-needed time out of the office.
What are some of the good/fond memories you forged during your time as a schoolboy at Clifton?
Looking back on my 13 years at Clifton, some of my fondest memories are from the sports tours I was lucky enough to go on. From my very first tour in Grade 4, travelling overnight to Johannesburg by train to play cricket against The Ridge, to our Bloemfontein football tour in my matric year, and everything in between, they never failed to disappoint.
I also treasure the times spent with friends during school – whether joking around in class, hanging out on weekends, or simply chilling and chatting during break. It’s amazing to see how many of us are now spread all over the world, but it’s such a treat to bump into them when they’re back in SA and reminisce about the good times we shared at Clifton.
What had the biggest impact on your life whilst still a schoolboy at Clifton?
Most definitely the music department, in its entirety. I used to spend many break times in the music block – at first because I wasn’t allowed to miss or be late for a lesson, and later because I couldn’t think of a better way to take a break from classes than by making music. Whether it was a lesson, playing alone, or casually jamming with friends, it always offered an escape and a release from everything else going on.
Even though the music department at Clifton was small, the teachers were incredibly passionate about music and about helping us grow as musicians, which created such a warm and positive environment. So many people played a huge role in nurturing my passion for music over the years, and I will be forever grateful to them – from Shirelle Daniel and Maddie O’Toole in prep school, to Meneer du Toit, Glenn Meyer, and Tania and Naum Rousine in high school.
What lesson did you take away with you from Clifton?
Something that has stayed with me since school is the idea that you don’t have to stick to just one hobby or interest. I distinctly remember sitting in Ken Mackenzie Hall early in Grade 8, shortly after starting high school, listening to some of the matric prefects give the age-old “small school, big heart” speech. They emphasized that if we wanted to compete with larger, more traditional schools, each of us would need to carry the weight of not one, but three students.
This message stayed with us throughout high school and motivated many of us not to limit ourselves to a single discipline or sport. It encouraged us to branch out, step out of our comfort zones, and get involved in as much as possible.
Entering the working world, it’s often hard to find time for sport, music, or other hobbies, as careers can be all-consuming. One of the most valuable lessons I learned at Clifton is that no matter how busy life gets, you have to make time for the things you enjoy.
What do you attribute your successes in life to? What is your personal ethos or creed?
The unwavering support of my family and friends over the past few years has been incredible and has played a huge role in where I am today. Let’s be honest – the accounting career I’ve chosen is far from the most exciting or glamorous path and has demanded many late nights and sacrifices. The encouragement, distractions, and even the criticisms from those around me have made it all bearable and continue to keep me motivated.
I would also say that the interpersonal skills I’ve developed through school, varsity, and articles have been invaluable, constantly helping to open new doors and opportunities.
“My personal ethos is simple: work hard at everything you do, but always make time for the things you love.”
Max Koenig
What advice would you share with yourself as a schoolboy knowing what you know now?
I would say, first and foremost, don’t take yourself too seriously, and second, allow yourself to make mistakes. School can sometimes feel like the be-all and end-all, and a little pressure can be motivating – but don’t let it overwhelm you.
Lost a sports game? Bad luck – pick yourself up and focus on the next one. Made a mistake during a performance or speech? Learn from it and let it fuel your confidence rather than shake it. Didn’t do as well as you hoped on a test? Stay positive – we’ve all been there, and trust me, in the greater scheme of things, it will all work out.
There’s a big world waiting for you beyond school, so enjoy your time there while you can.
What is your message to other Clifton Boys to inspire them to contribute or get involved in an Old Boy's Association?
Having recently attended one of my first Old Boys’ gatherings in Cape Town, it was fantastic catching up with old schoolmates and meeting some of the newer COBWEB members. Since then, I’ve organized a braai to watch this weekend’s RWC with three old boys, had a quick catch-up with another, and even formed a (so far slightly unsuccessful) padel partnership with someone else.
The point is, we often lose touch with schoolmates over time, but it’s surprisingly easy to rekindle those friendships – and we’re lucky to have a platform like the Old Boys’ Association to do it. So get involved!
Any last thoughts?
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share where I am today and to reflect on my time at Clifton. I’m really excited for the centenary celebrations next year and can’t wait to see many familiar-and new-faces!
Thank you, Max, for sharing your story and reflecting on your time at Clifton. We wish you continued success in all your endeavors and can’t wait to welcome you back for the centenary celebrations next year!
#FromOurOldBoysNetwork #WhereAreTheyNow #AdventureAwaits
