Springs Girls High School hosted its annual Crochet Circle event on May 23 to crochet blankets.
The school decided to order 75 blankets this year to mark its 75th birthday.

Teachers, learners and community members gathered on Saturday to crochet blankets that will be donated to those in need through their Nelson Mandela Blanket Drive.

One of the crocheters and a Grade Eight learner, Bontle Ntsibande, said she started crocheting in Grade Five after a friend taught her the basics.

“I realised that it’s a good hobby to escape the world so I watched videos to get better,” she said.

She adds that it gets easier with practice and requires patience. Bontle discussed what it means to be part of the initiative.

“I feel like I’m a part of something important while doing what I love,” she said.

Grade Six learner, Zanokuhle Mhlambi, shared similar sentiments, stating that crocheting provides a sense of belonging and freedom.

“It’s a way for me to feel relaxed. When I don’t feel happy or like myself, whenever I pick up the hook and wool, it’s hard to put it down,” Zanokuhle said.

As a first-timer at the Crochet Circle, she says her experience has allowed her to connect with like-minded people.

“It’s been lovely seeing all the different creations because you can tell a lot about someone based on what they crochet,” Zanokuhle said.

Kaitlyn Wheller, one of the organisers, said the initiative’s community engagement has increased.

“We have had an increase of donations not just from the Springs community, since a wool shop in Kempton Park also assisted us,” she said.

Wheller shared some advice on being part of impactful community work.

“Start small. It’s always good to see something that you’ve done help others. It reminds us that we are not alone in this world, even when we have struggles, there are always people who are struggling more and need your help,” she concluded.