Grade 10 learners at Trinityhouse Little Falls made a significant impact in the fight against hunger when they participated in the Rise Against Hunger Africa meal packaging event on Friday, May 22.

According to Life Orientation teacher and head of outreach Nevalea Zondi, the school’s involvement was driven by its commitment to community outreach and developing socially responsible young people.

“The initiative provided learners with an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution towards addressing food insecurity while serving the wider community,” Nevalea said.

The initiative brought together all 110 Grade 10 learners, who worked alongside the organisers to package meals destined for early childhood development centres.

Preparations for the event began well before the packaging day. Nevalea, together with Grade 12 Outreach prefects Lara Finke and Leah Barlow, met with Rise Against Hunger Africa organisers to learn more about the programme and its impact. The learners also learned about the goals of the initiative and how the meals were going to benefit people living in underprivileged communities.

On the day, the team carefully set up the packing stations to ensure a smooth and effective operation. While the original target was 32 400 meals, the learners exceeded expectations by packing an impressive 35 388 meals.

Also read: Trinity swimmers dive into the new season

Nevalea credited the learners’ enthusiasm and teamwork for helping them surpass the target.

“The learners exceeded the target through enthusiasm, teamwork and determination. Their energy and commitment motivated them to work efficiently throughout the event, allowing them to package more meals instead of the original target set,” she said.

Beyond the meals packaged, Nevalea believes the event provided learners with valuable life lessons. Through working together towards a common goal, they developed skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, responsibility and problem-solving.

“Community service is an important part of learners’ development because it teaches compassion, responsibility and active citizenship. It helps learners understand the importance of giving back to society and encourages them to become caring and engaged members of their communities,” she explained.

She added that the highlight of the day was witnessing the learners’ enthusiasm and sense of unity as they worked together to make a difference.