Spark Rivonia High lead with heart in support of Thuthuzela Aid Centre
What happens when young people lead with heart? Spark Rivonia High students take initiative, mobilise their school community, and deliver more than just donations to Thuthuzela Aid Centre; they deliver hope, empathy, and lasting impact.
In a heartwarming display of youth-led action, learners from Spark Rivonia High School proved that leadership has no age limit as they spearheaded a major outreach initiative to support vulnerable children at the Thuthuzela Aid Community Centre in Marlboro Gardens on September 17.
Driven by the school’s core value of service, the Representative Council of Learners and school leaders took ownership of the initiative, planning, collecting, and delivering more than 100 boxes filled with essentials such as clothing, food, books, DVDs, and sanitary products.
But this was more than a donation drive. For these young leaders, the visit was an opportunity to connect, listen, and learn; demonstrating a powerful model of socially conscious youth leadership in action.
Assistant principal of social services and counselling at the school, Phethego Malapane, said, “This initiative was about more than charity; it’s about empowering our students to understand their role in shaping society through service and empathy.”
One of the key drivers of this initiative was Grade 9 learner Paballo Lebuso, who chose Thuthuzela Aid Community Centre as the beneficiary.
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“I chose Thuthuzela not just because my dad is a board member, but also because it connects me to my late mom. Some of her old clothes are donated here, and that brings me closer to her memory. I know how important it is for kids in our community to receive support, especially those who are facing challenges like abuse or neglect.”
Her compassion for the children at Thuthuzela stems from her own experiences growing up in Alexandra, where she’s seen firsthand the struggles faced by many children in townships.
“I had the privilege of growing up in a stable home, and I want to see other kids, especially girls, have the same opportunities to succeed,” she added.
While the donations were gratefully received, what left a lasting impact was the time and attention the learners gave to the children at Thuthuzela. Games were played, stories shared, and bonds formed, turning the day into a celebration of unity and humanity.
Established in 2005, Thuthuzela continues to serve as a lifeline for orphans, child-headed households, and at-risk youth in the Marlboro area. From infants to young adults, the centre provides shelter, food, and early childhood development programmes.
“Many of these kids arrive here with nothing,” said Radebe. “Support from schools like Spark Rivonia High helps us keep going, but we need more help, especially to improve our infrastructure.
“Right now, we’re working hard to provide for the children, but additional support would go a long way in ensuring we can continue to offer them a safe and nurturing environment.”
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