Diepkloof learners enjoy Shorts and Shades event
This year’s proceeds will assist with sporting activities, including supporting learners representing the school outside its premises, as well as other learner-related needs.
What started as an initiative to bring learners together has grown into an annual event aimed at inspiring young people and supporting school development.
Miyetani Masinga, popularly known as “Drip Dokotela”, founded the Shorts and Shades Spring Day event after serving as the school’s president at Diepdale Secondary School.
Wanting to leave a meaningful contribution to the learners he led, Masinga partnered with teachers serving on the fundraising committee to introduce the school’s first Spring Day celebration, which was held on September 11.
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With experience in the entertainment industry and previous collaborations with artists, Masinga used his exposure to help establish the event.
The initiative raises funds through tickets purchased by learners ahead of the event. This year’s proceeds will assist with sporting activities, including supporting learners representing the school outside its premises, as well as other learner-related needs.
Masinga believes the event offers learners an opportunity to interact with artists they admire while exposing them to positive experiences.
“Some learners get to meet their heroes, and that encourages them to push more because they are inspired by a particular artist,” Masinga said.
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The event has also contributed to Masinga’s personal growth, allowing him to collaborate with other schools and entertainment professionals.
Photos: supplied
Looking ahead, he plans to establish the Drip Dokotela Foundation in 2027, focusing on youth development and school-centred programmes.
The foundation aims to provide platforms for emerging artists to showcase their talents while expanding into community initiatives such as soccer tournaments and other youth engagements.
Masinga also encouraged young people to believe in their potential and avoid drugs, while calling for greater collaboration within the community. “Collaboration is better than competition. If we stand together as a community, we can have a youth to look up to. I would like the learners to know that it is possible to achieve our goals regardless of our backgrounds and the challenges we face in our lives.”
He pledged to continue giving back to Diepkloof and raising its flag wherever his work takes him.
