In a touching and personal initiative, Phumza Somhlaba is illuminating the path of education and hope through an annual #PS24 Birthday School Shoes Drive. The initiative was born in 2022 from a deep well of personal experience. It has become a beacon for positive change, reaching the hearts of many a child in need.
“The roots of the school-shoe drive delve into my own family history,” Somhlaba related. “Witnessing my brother’s heart-rending struggle, compelled to abandon his education in Grade 10 due to lack of proper shoes left an indelible mark on me.”
This, coupled with her own challenges in pursuing higher education due to financial constraints, sparked a profound commitment to addressing seemingly small yet influential obstacles that hinder a child’s journey.
At the heart of the #PS24 School Shoes Drive lies a primary mission, to restore hope, pride, and dignity to learners in need by providing them with new school shoes.But beyond the practicality of footwear, Somhlaba said, it offers an opportunity for education and a brighter future.
In 2021 300 school shoes were collected and 94 donated to PJB Cona, Alfred Stamper and Siyafuneka Primary School, the rest going to Vusisizwe Secondary. Five high-spec computers were donated to three top Grade 7students from Alfred Stamper, PJB Cona and Siyafuneka primary schools and two to top Grade 11 learners from the two high schools in Zwelethemba.R60 000 was donated to six learners from the two high schools towards their registration fees.“The 2024 campaign sets a goal of collecting a minimum of 300 pairs of new school shoes and cash donations” said Somhlaba, “with a unique focus on aiding the class of 2023 with university registration fees.”
Her community has rallied with enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of collective support. Friends, family, business associates, and community members actively engaged in the drive, contributing not only school shoes but also vital cash donations.
“Partnerships with local businesses and organisations have played a pivotal role in extending the campaign’s reach and garnering widespread support.”
For Somhlaba this initiative was not merely a charitable act, but the restoration of hope and pride, coupled with the provision of educational opportunities for vulnerable children.
The impact over the years seems to be personally fulfilling, reinforcing a deep commitment to supporting children and youth in realising their full potential.
At the heart of the initiative lie the tangible success stories that have emerged from previous school-shoe drives. Beyond statistical figures these serve as powerful testimonies, highlighting the transformative impact on the lives of children.
Looking ahead, Somhlaba envisages an expansion of the school shoe drive’s reach and impact.
The consideration of additional initiatives and projects that complement the current effort reflects a commitment to adapt and grow in response to the evolving needs of the Zwelethemba community.
Somhlaba warmly invites everyone to contribute by donating new pairs of school shoes for primary schoolchildren (Grade R7) or providing cash towards university registration fees for learners in the class of 2024. Outreach coordinators are available to facilitate easy and convenient ways for individuals to make a meaningful difference.
For those eager to learn more or contribute, please reach out to Phumza at 083 513 4720, Unathi at 073 914 1260, or Ncumisa at 073 406 0288.
