Good manners go a long way

AMAJUBA PARK – A real gentleman, Akwande Mavimbela was duly acknowledged for his good manners and politeness.

Just over a year ago, Susan de Waal opened a tuckshop opposite Amajuba High School.

Little did she know how Akwande, a seven-year old Grade 1 learner, would change her outlook on life.

Everyday Akwande visits ‘aunty Susan’ or ‘Gogo’ as he affectionately calls her.

“He comes to my tuckshop every day and can’t wait to greet me. He is very well mannered,” she said.

Taking to social media to relay her experience with this kind lad, Mrs de Waal wanted Newcastle to know about this particularly pleasant child.

Her post gained more than 2000 likes in a matter of a few hours, and comments on the virtual platform were overwhelming, to say the least.

This caught the attention of staff at Favourite Office National stationers.

“We were blown away by the response. We wanted to give this young, respectful boy a gesture to keep him going,” said marketing manager, Darren Dorasamy.

Favourite Office National decided to sponsor a portion of Akwande’s school fees and donate stationery to him.

“Positive posts like this catch our attention, and is very rare in the community,” he said.

The handover took place at the school on Wednesday, January 25, where the bashful Akwande was recognised in front of his peers for his polite nature.

Not much of a talker, Akwande’s bright smile sufficed to convey his delight.

The grand surprise was not yet over. In light of Mrs de Waal’s post, Favourite Office National also sponsored signage for her tuckshop, Toeks Tuckshop.

Mrs de Waal was elated and pleasantly surprised.

“I did not expect this. Thank you Office National,” she said teary-eyed.

With smiles, euphoria and tears of joy all round, Favourite Office National can rest assured they have made a difference in more than one life.

“This is what true good spirit and humanity is about. The aim of this donation was to unite the community and I think we have achieved it,” Mr Dorasamy concluded.