KAREEDOUW – Kareedouw Online reached a significant milestone on 11 July, when the community-based homeschool support and tutoring centre celebrated its first-ever matric farewell.

The occasion honoured Heraldine Fisse, the first learner to complete her matric journey with the centre, which opened its doors in 2024.

Around 30 guests attended the celebration, including Heraldine’s family, school staff and community members who have supported Kareedouw Online since its inception.

Co-founder Melodie Lezar said the day’s programme began with a photo shoot before guests gathered for a welcome, speeches, gift-giving and prayer.

After enjoying a meal together, family and friends shared their gratitude and words of encouragement before the celebration concluded with cake.

As a keepsake, Heraldine received a daily devotional from the centre as a symbol of its hope that she will carry her faith with her into the next chapter of her life.

Melodie said the farewell represented far more than one learner’s achievement.

“Celebrating our very first matric farewell was an incredibly special and emotional milestone for Kareedouw Online. As a centre that was established to provide opportunities for learners who often do not fit into traditional schooling environments, seeing our first matric learner reach this important stage was a reminder of why we started this journey,” said Melodie.

“It was not only a celebration of Heraldine’s achievement, but also a celebration of God’s faithfulness and the growth of our school community.”

Melodie said the milestone was particularly meaningful given that the centre had only been established in 2024.

“To host our first matric farewell so soon after opening was a proud moment that demonstrated what can be achieved when learners are given the right support, encouragement and opportunities to succeed,” said Melodie.

Heraldine first joined Kareedouw Online as a part-time learner in 2024 before later enrolling full-time.

According to co-founder, Shawn Lezar, staff watched her develop from “a quiet, reserved young girl into a confident and determined young woman” over the past two years.

He said Heraldine faced personal responsibilities during her matric year but remained committed to her studies.

“Throughout her journey, our role was to provide encouragement, academic support, guidance and a nurturing environment where she could grow in confidence and believe in her own potential. We are incredibly proud of the resilience and determination she demonstrated,” said Shawn.

He added that celebrating the achievement with the wider community reflected the centre’s values.

“Kareedouw Online is deeply rooted in the local community, and we believe that every success story belongs not only to the learner but also to the wider community that supports and encourages them. Celebrating Heraldine’s achievement publicly sends a message of hope to other young people and their families,” said Shawn.

Since opening with just two learners in 2024, the centre has grown to serve 36 learners ranging from two years old to matric.

As previously reported, it focuses on supporting children who learn differently, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Down syndrome and other learning differences.

Shawn said the growth reflected the increasing need for alternative educational support in the community but also brought new challenges.

“Our biggest challenges include securing sustainable funding, expanding our facilities, obtaining educational resources and ensuring that we can continue providing quality support to learners while keeping education affordable for families,” said Shawn.

The community-based homeschool support and tutoring centre depends on fundraising, sponsorships and donations to continue its work.

For more information or to support Kareedouw Online, email kareedouwonline@gmail.com or contact 060 965 7015.

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