What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a powerful movement for change.

Damelin and Kribashnee Sewnarain, a husband-and-wife team from Stanger Heights, are the founders of the MeToo Foundation, a non-profit organisation that supports under-resourced schools in rural and township areas.

After several years teaching in China, the couple returned to South Africa in 2023.

During Damelin’s teaching practical at Mbekamuzi Secondary, he was shocked to see pupils writing on their laps due to the lack of desks. Deeply moved, the couple donated 60 desks and chairs to the school. That one act of kindness became the seed for their foundation.

Coming from humble beginnings himself, Damelin understands the challenges of growing up without basic necessities.

“Children don’t choose their circumstances. It’s our duty to give them what they need to succeed. We don’t have much, but even helping one child at a time makes a difference. Nothing will change unless we, as a society, stand up and help each other,” he said.

The MeToo Foundation focuses on identifying real needs and taking practical action. On Workers’ Day this year, the team and volunteers returned to Mbekamuzi to repair broken windows, leaking roofs and damaged doors. Just last Friday, they donated sanitary pads, soap and beds for the school’s sick room.

“These may seem like small things, but to the pupils, they mean the world,” said Kribashnee, who is also a teacher, life coach and author.

The couple thanked everyone who has supported the foundation.

“None of this would be possible without our sponsors, volunteers and the community. Your help is changing lives,” said Kribashnee.

Their next mission is to help Thembeni Primary School, where pupils learn in run-down prefab classrooms and the borehole no longer functions. The foundation is appealing to residents, businesses and organisations to help meet this urgent need.

“We can’t do everything, but we can do something. And together, we can do even more,” said Damelin.

To support the MeToo Foundation, email themetoofoundation@gmail.com or contact 083 376 5870.

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