Drama students stay awake for 12 hours for charity
The students were inspired by the idea of using their talents for charity when they performed skits and stayed active all night, collecting items worth over R75 000.
A group of drama students took part in a 12-hour overnight drama challenge, not only to test their endurance, but also to give back to those in need.
The 12-Hour Staying All Night Challenge brought together teens from various age groups, united by a shared love for performance and a strong desire to make a difference.
When asked what inspired him to join the event, Desmond ‘Desi’ Koolen said: “The idea of doing something I love, drama, for a cause bigger than myself was so motivating. It wasn’t just about staying up all night, it was about using our talents to help others. That gave the whole night meaning.”
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For 16-year-old Molly Piedally, it was a combination of creativity and compassion. “I loved the idea of doing drama for 12 hours, and helping a charity made it all the more special.”
As the night wore on, the students found themselves energised, not only by the performances, but by the growing impact of their efforts. “The highlight, for me, was watching the pile of donated items get bigger through the night,” shared 15-year-old Regan Egbers. “Each hour that we completed, we added more to the pile, and realising that we were going to make a difference in people’s lives, just by being sponsored, was really beautiful.”
Desi added: “Seeing how everyone came together – performing, laughing, staying motivated – it was powerful. Every skit and monologue felt like it had a deeper purpose that night.”
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Staying alert for 12 straight hours was no easy feat for the students. Desi admitted that the night wasn’t without its challenges. “There were definitely moments where I felt really tired, but the energy of the group kept me going. That, and the coffee.”
Coach Jill Avis and her team kept spirits high with constant activities. The steady supply of pizza, coffee, and energy drinks didn’t hurt either. “I had requested the students get 48 items each, which would have been 1 248 items, but they more than doubled that, which was just so special.”
In the end, the students collected an astonishing 2 788 items, from food and toiletries to warm blankets, amounting to over R75 000 worth of donations.
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“We wanted to show people that you can use whatever you have, your talents, your passion, and regardless of your age, you can make a big difference,” said another student, Loyolo Matyolo.
Though the event was physically and mentally taxing, the students were unanimous in their reflection: They’d do it all over again.
“Yes, it was exhausting but knowing we helped so many people made it completely worth it. I would definitely participate in another event like this,” said Desi.
The challenge proved that with passion, teamwork, and a little caffeine, young people can truly move mountains, or, at the very least, build a mountain of donations that changes lives.
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