Story: Linda Magazi
Nongxa shares that her aspiration to donate shoes stems from a deep emotional place, especially after losing her mother last year. This past August marked a year since her mother’s passing. He reflects on how he wanted to honor his mother’s memory and create a memorial for her, recognising that her mother was a teacher who inspired her to make a positive impact in the world.
He also mentioned that those who contributed to the forty pairs of shoes he purchased included Professor Nongxa, his wife, his father Bashe, Solam Gqobozi, and his superiors at work. He observed children wearing worn-out shoes, some held together with wires, while others appeared to be wearing what resembled flip-flops.
He expressed his joy at witnessing the smiles on the faces of the children who received the gifts.
The schools that benefited from this initiative included Sosebenza, Ed Keik, Umhlanga Primary School, Ratespruit Senior Primary School, St. Augustine’s, and Phakamani School.
Majali expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from the Imhlanga Development Forum, parents, local councilor Cllr Nolwomozo Mkhethi, and school principals. Nongxa mentions their desire to extend this campaign into next year and beyond, emphasising that contributions of any size are welcome and appreciated.
