Grade 11 Dawnview High School learner Owami Kgafane recently donated pre-loved clothes to the community of Good Hope informal settlement in Germiston.

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Over 40 families were affected by a shack fire and were left with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

“Families were affected by the shack fire because they were left with nothing and have to rebuild from scratch. It can be difficult, and that is why I wanted to assist,” said the youngster.

Owami has a foundation called Wami Foundation. Its focus is helping the less fortunate and inspiring young people to achieve the best version of themselves.

“I posted on social media and requested people to donate pre-loved clothes to the Wami Foundation. The response was amazing because we received so much, and we know they will make a difference to those who will receive them,” said Owami.

The young philanthropist said her giving nature comes from her grandmother.

Families also received blankets from the 67 Mandela Blankets campaign, which were donated by Clr Nene.

GCN spoke to Owami about her foundation and the work it does.

She said her life experiences have made her see life differently, and she wants to use that to inspire her peers and those around her.

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The 16-year-old has had a challenging upbringing.

“It changed the way I viewed the world and made me a fighter. My mother was addicted to alcohol and after her death, I found forgiveness.

“I was young when my mother was going through her own challenges. Now, looking back, she might have suffered pain she was never able to deal with,” said Owami.

The foundation was inspired by her life struggles and her need to help others who have suffered traumatic and painful experiences to find love and hope.

The NPO collects clothes and donates them to the needy.

The foundation recently added youth development and women empowerment programmes to uplift the despondent.

Owami said she finds strength in her grandmother, who raised her and her brother.

“My grandmother is my hero because she has sacrificed a lot for me and my brother. I’m able to breathe life into the foundation because of her dedication and support to us,” said Owami.