Stepping into the future with brand new shoes

In collaboration with TOMS Shoes, the Rotary Club of Benoni handed over about 1 200 pairs of shoes to learners at Actonville Primary School on January 26.

The Rotary Club of Benoni handed over 1 200 pairs of shoes to learners at Actonville Primary School recently. Seen here are (from left): Charmaine Williams, Njabulo Mabaso (8), Donnive Pillay (8) and Ian Williams.

Ian Williams, president of the Rotary Club of Benoni, addressed Grade Seven learners at the schools.

He said this is the biggest donation that has been made by the California-based company in Africa.

For every TOMS pair of shoes purchased worldwide, the business donates a pair to someone less fortunate.

“It’s unheard of that so many pairs have been donated in one single instance,” said Williams.

“Actonville Primary has made history once again.”

The shoes are made of a rubber sole and black elastic material, specifically designed as sports wear.

The event was themed “Steps of Hope” to encourage the children to take positive steps towards their future in their new shoes.

“‘Steps of Hope’ has been a phenomenal experience for Actonville Primary,” said Venessa Moodley, headmistress of Actonville Primary School.

“It has also been an emotional experience explaining to our learners that no matter the social or emotional ills, stepping into this shoe means taking the steps into their future with hope, academic success and making a difference to this country – one step at a time.”