Disadvantaged learners boast shiny new shoes, thanks to businessman

Local resident Tshepo Musi, owner of T-Exclusive Boutique, continues to inspire and instill self-confidence in needy learners around the schools of Tembisa.

Musi, a self-employed family man, ensures that every year he donates at least 10 pairs of new school shoes to disadvantaged learners.

This year he donated to the learners at Tswelopele Secondary School, where 15 learners benefited from his kindness on September 7.

Musi said he realised most learners in Tembisan schools were still struggling to obtain full, proper school uniforms because families were experiencing financial difficulties.

“I am trying my level best to ensure that I buy these shoes every year for needy families. It shouldn’t just be a saying that it takes a whole village to raise a child. As communities we should take action. I am hoping these learners are learning something from these donations so that when they grow up, they become better persons, do the same and teach other learners how to look after one another,” said Musi.

Musi said since he started working for himself over 10 years ago, he has made sure that wherever he runs his business, he gives back to the people.

“I am a people’s person, a Christian, and giving has always been my desire. I’ve learnt from others about giving back and bringing change to the people who are most in need,” added Musi.

Musi encouraged other local business people to consider giving back to previously disadvantaged families, schools and homes.

His T-Exclusive Boutique business expanded into two branches. One is based in the Mega Mart Shopping Complex, while the other is at the Esangweni Shopping Centre.

“I would like to thank community members who are supporting my business – especially members of Ivory Park Taxi Association (IPTA) because they’ve remained loyal customers to me. It is through your support that I am able to buy these learners school shoes,” said Musi.

When Musi delivered his donation, he was joined by Andries Mathe, the centre manager of Mega Mart Shopping Complex, based at Tswelopele Extension.

Lesly Maluleke, Tswelopele Secondary School deputy principal, said as a school they thank T-Exclusive Boutique for thinking about them, especially since their school caters for many learners from disadvantaged families.

“It is challenging to see these learners coming to school wearing torn shoes. I think they are going to concentrate more now without having to stress about their torn shoes. It is going to enhance their education,” added Maluleke.

Sibiya Keke, the school head of department for life orientation, who handles donation projects, said they hope more donations come through as 90 per cent of the learners struggle to get a proper school uniform.

“Of the 1 146 learners in the school, 65 are orphans, 20 come from child-headed families while others come from disadvantaged families. We thank T-Exclusive and other shops from Mega Mart Shopping Complex for always remembering us. Their support makes a huge difference to our school,” added Keke.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Lindokuhle Dumakude, a Grade 10 learner, said they were grateful for the donation.

“We appreciate the donation and, of course, this donation will allow us to focus more on our education,” said Dumakude.