As part of the ongoing campaigns commemorating Nelson Mandela Month, The Star and Saturday Star have launched a heartwarming initiative, visiting schools to provide much-needed school shoes to underprivileged learners.
This act of kindness has ignited joy and hope in the hearts of many, particularly at Cosmo City Secondary One, where the atmosphere was filled with laughter and gratitude from both teachers and students alike.
Anna Mamabolo, an administrator who is deeply involved in supporting orphan learners in the area, voiced the challenges that many students endure daily.
“Cosmo City as a whole is in the middle of Honeydew, Kysands, and Lion Park, so our underprivileged children use buses to come to school. Some of them do not have parents; they live with their grandparents. Some stay alone. So we have a list that we write, especially for food. We try to find sponsors for food and also give them food. We also need sponsors for veggies to give them. Even other important things such as sanitary towels and cosmetics.”
Mamabolo also highlighted the dire need for assistance beyond just food. “This is important to us because we are parents. We are teachers, we are parents, we are social workers, we are priests, and we are everything. So when you see a child struggling, you feel like this could be my child in the same position, who does not have food in class or at home. For instance, last week I found a sponsor for spectacles, so I have a doctor that helps me, Dr. Tebogo. Then I deal with him for free. He checks up on them, so I have 10 that will be given to them next week. So before term two I’ll have another twelve to help them.”
Mamabolo’s efforts, echoed by the support from brands like Toughees and Bata Children's Program, underscore the importance of community engagement in fostering resilience among these young learners. “I’ve reached out to various companies for support. Some are willing, but many do not respond. We desperately need ongoing assistance,” she concluded, her tone a mix of hope and determination.
Many learners vividly shared their excitement upon receiving their new shoes, a gesture that has a profound impact on their school experience.
Kidetlweatsi Rankoloane, a young girl with ambitions of becoming a police officer, beamed with joy and couldn’t contain her happiness. “I am so excited. I can’t even express how I feel. My mother is going to be thrilled when I get home with my shoes,” she said, reflecting the sense of pride.
Another student, Phenyo Mathe, also expressed her gratitude, revealing that she had been eagerly anticipating this moment. “I’ve been waiting for months to get new shoes because of the struggles back home,” said Mathe, who had endured teasing from classmates about her previous footwear.
“Children in this school sometimes make fun of others. Yesterday they joked about how my shoes looked and even posted a picture on Facebook,” she said.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star
Related Topics: