Finalists bring happiness to vulnerable children

As part of the Siyaphumelela Youth Development Initiative’s outreach programme, finalists of the Miss Tembisa and Miss Teen Tembisa Beauty Pageants spent a fun day with the children of the Bulamahlo Orphanage Centre recently.

The day was part of celebrating the birthday of former Miss Tembisa 2014 and brand manager of Siyaphumelela Youth Development Initiative, Ms Tsholofelo Gasebone, who turned 23.

The founder of the initiative, Mr Philly Mhlongo, said the finalists had a fun day with the children, playing several educational activities.

“They played soccer and mostly interacted with the children, motivating them about the ups and downs of life. They encouraged the children to always put smiles on their faces, to enjoy their childhood and focus on going to school in order to acquire a better life,” said Mr Mhlongo.

He said the finalists also contributed with collected clothing and sanitary goods for the children.

Ms Gasebone shared her birthday cake with the children.

“This was my way of teaching the children that a beauty pageant is not just about beauty but being active in community projects. It is all about giving back to the community. People should know that it does not require a title in order to serve the community but love and support,” said Ms Gasebone.

The Difateng-based Bulamahlo Orphanage caters to several orphans, who are permanently based at the centre.

The orphanage was established and is operated and owned by Ms Regina Sekgobela, an elderly Sotho woman who has used her own funds to create the facility to provide services that she saw were in desperate need.

The orphanage is approved by the government and receives children who are referred by the SAPS and social workers, but has no regular funding sources and survives on donations.

The facility provides a loving, caring home for those who live there but is grossly inadequate.

Dormitories are too small, the kitchen is not equipped and the toilets are inadequate.