Mooifontein Primary hosts first-ever community market
Residents turned out in large numbers for Mooifontein Primary School’s inaugural market, supporting local vendors and raising funds for the school.
Mooifontein Primary School opened its gates for residents to attend their first-ever market on November 29, drawing a large crowd eager to support local vendors.
The event also offered sellers an opportunity to reach new customers while raising funds for the school.
The market was organised to address the lack of goods and services in the Birch Acres area, providing a space for local money circulation and community engagement.
Photo by: Masego Mashilo
ALSO READ: Seven-year delay leaves Birch Acres Primary School unfinished despite urgent need
Event organiser Pieter van der Merwe said the experience exceeded expectations despite some challenges.
“We had to compete with rainy weather and Black Friday, but people came out in numbers, and the vendors sold well. Some even made profits.
“It was a great experience, and we plan to host a similar market during the week when students are in school, as the end of the year is always a busy period,” van der Merwe said.
Melissa Burger and Lenny Mametsa assisted with organising the market, handling bookings, and ensuring the school was ready to host the event.
The market catered to all ages, offering food, drinks, clothing, and handcrafted items. While the event was designed to be child-friendly, adults also found plenty of items of interest.
Visitor Isabella Pillay said she enjoys supporting local businesses and collecting handmade bracelets as souvenirs.
ALSO READ: Community fitness day returns to Kaalfontein Primary School this November
“I think it’s important to support local businesses. People make their own bracelets, and it’s great to encourage them. I have a lot of bracelets from markets I’ve attended, and the ones sold here really stood out,” Pillay said.
Photo by: Masego Mashilo
Despite challenges such as Black Friday, the end-of-year exams, and holiday travel, the school was praised for its organisation, communication, and advertising. Timing, however, will be improved for future events to avoid clashes with busy shopping periods.
First-time visitor Busisiwe Msimango said she thoroughly enjoyed the market and was glad her younger sister encouraged her to attend.
“This was my first market, and I had so much fun. I tried a boba drink, which stood out, and I also bought a cute teddy bear. The experience was lovely,” Msimango said.
