About the authors

Joanne Elke Pohl

Greetings

Hi! My name is Joanne Elke Pohl, but am better known as Jo. I am 17 years old and live in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. I am an 11^th-Grader at The Wykeham Collegiate, a girl’s school in Pietermaritzburg. I enjoy Art and Drama immensely, which are subjects I take along with Biology and Maths. My hobbies are art, films, reading writing and karate.

ThinkQuest

I became involved in ThinkQuest at the end of last year, when I became quite interested in this competition. I believe the Internet is a tool too little harnessed by everyone, especially South Africans, and once you know how to make it work for you, you can achieve a lot. I believe ThinkQuest can teach a group of young people so much. Involved in creating this broadly educational website on the Renaissance, I have acquired numerous skills that I am grateful for. I know I, and our team has learnt patience, how to communicate effectively, teamwork, time management and an appreciation for individuality and culture. Especially, it was a big challenge and exhilarating experience to share ideas with teenagers thousands of kilometers away.

A bit more about Myself

I have two lovely parents, Elke and Geoffrey, who have been a great support to me during this project. I also have two wonderful brothers, Jonathan and Terence, who attend Maritzburg College. Speaking roughly 4 languages, I am proud to say we are true South Africans who enjoy a good Rugby match and a braai. As I have mentioned, I am an artist and would like to take that career route after school. I am interested in filmmaking, animation and acting, and undertake part-time jobs as a commercial artist.

Special Thanks

First and foremost, thanks to Mom and Dad for all the support and encouragement, and computer facilities. Mrs. Dyer, our coach, thank you for all the assistance and guidance, despite your full schedule. Thank you to my school, The Wykeham Collegiate, for providing computer facilities. Thanks to all the people involved in SchoolNet, an organization giving support to South African ThinkQuest entrants.

To my team: Amanda and Vlad. Thanks so much for all the cooperation , teamwork and fantastic ideas. You guys were great and we make a wonderful team. And Thank You to God, who gave me this great opportunity and helping me through it.