Mngwevu gives gifts on his birthday
150 learners from primary schools in Kwathema received uniforms and school shoes as part of the Andile Mngwevu birth month celebration back to school campaign last Friday.
KwaThema – Andile Mngwevu celebrates his birth month by donating much-needed school supplies to learners at KwaThema Hall on Friday.
The regional chairperson for the ANC youth league in Ekurhuleni has always had the desire to give back to his community and make a tangible difference.
“Not too long ago, I was in the same position as these beautiful children,” he says.
Also read: Giving is the best gift for Loyiso
Mngwevu grew up in his grandmother’s house, while his parents struggled to secure stable employment.
“Like many households, I know my parents tried to give us what we needed, but most of the time we had to rely on gogo’s pension.”
He says going to school in a worn out school uniform and shoes was a sad reality.
Also read: Donation brightens the day for young girls
“I always believed in education and the power it has to change our circumstances.
“I wanted to do better so that I can come back and help change the lives of others.”
Mngwevu says when some of his friends approached him to organise a party to celebrate his birthday last year, he knew exactly what he wanted.
“I would not be satisfied with just drinking and having fun.
“That is when I decided to bring everyone together to collect as many school uniforms and shoes as possible.”
In 2017, the Andile Mngwevu Birth Month Celebration Back to School Campaign donated uniforms and shoes to 100 primary school learners from KwaThema.
“This year we extended it to 150.”
He says he hopes the project will grow even more and assist more children.
“The bigger goal is to take care of them, even through tertiary,” he adds.
Nkosana Lukhele, from the clothing brand Asazi Sophelelaphi, says he is happy to see the community members coming out in their numbers to support the initiative.
“This is what we mean when we say, ‘It takes a village to raise a child’.”
Wilma Msibi, from Zamani Primary School, believes the contribution encourages the learners to stay in school.
“The uniforms help their confidence and they feel special enough to receive this gift.”
