Hope for Africa Foundation reached out to the needy learners of Zonkizizwe Primary School on Wednesday, January 1.
The Kathorus MAIL reported in its issue of Wednesday, November 9, that the Hope for Africa Foundation members walked to Durban over 16 days with the aim of raising funds to donate school shoes to underprivileged learners.
Unfortunately they were turned down by a number of people who had promised them donations.
Now, however, they have finally managed to raise funds to donate at least 35 pairs of shoes, 20 000 sanitary towels and 100 school uniforms to less fortunate learners, thanks to the local municipality and Chris Hani Crossing Mall management.
According to Jabulani Thabethe of Hope for Africa Foundation, if learners can start to dream big in life, nothing will stand in their way.
“In everything you do in life, you must aim high. Then you will always succeed.
“You don’t need to be a mighty person with financial muscle. All you need is a kind heart. I am still a student but I can still help the community because of the love I have for the them.”
Thabethe thanked all those who helped make his dream come true.
“I would like to thank my colleagues who accompanied me on the 16-day Barefoot Walk to Durban in November last year. Without you this would not have happened. I would also like to thank Lebohang Matlala, the marketing manager at Chris Hani Crossing Mall, for her contribution in making this day a success. Not forgetting the help we received from the municipality,” concluded Thabethe.
Nozipho Khumalo, a Grade Seven learner at the school, thanked Hope for Africa Foundation on behalf of the learners.
“We thank you for ensuring that no learners will miss school just because it is cold and they have no shoes or uniform. No girl will miss school because it is her menstrual cycle,” said Khumalo.
According to the MMC for Human Settlements, Lesiba Mpya, who was there on the day, learners will succeed in life if they put their education first and don’t involve themselves with blessers.
“Education must come first in life. Other things must follow.
“I have nothing much to say except that we are here to support you, both learners and teachers. We want you to know that you as teachers have our support,” said Mpya.
School principal Norman Mokoena thanked everyone who made the day a success and promised to guide learners to be successful in life.
