The Lakefield resident has been nominated as the Youth Ambassador in the 2017 Woman of Stature Awards.
Her mother, Madelain, has been nominated for the Woman in Media category.
READ: Shannon makes the cut
Madelain is the managing director of PR Worx, which was established in 2001.
The awards will take place on March 11 at Emperors Palace.
Shannon is the co-founder of DeskBags, which was founded in 2012.
DeskBags are functional, ecofriendly school bags that provide a portable desk solution.
“The bag allows the child to carry his or her schoolbooks and stationery safely to and from school, while the flap, which is reinforced with durable Perspex, becomes an instant, durable desk when unfolded,” said Shannon.
“These bags are made from the vinyl of recycled billboards and are strong; if looked after well, they can last a whole school career.”
The bags are waterproof, reflective and light enough for pre-primary learners to use.
Shannon said she got the idea to create DeskBags when she visited North West with her mother to do charity work.
“We saw all these children walking around with a plastic bag and a make-shift desk, like an ice cream tub or piece of cardboard,” she said.
This had her and her mother thinking of how they could help these children and possibly make a difference.
“We went home and decided that there has to be something done, and that’s how the concept of DeskBags was created.”
The 25-year-old said she is thrilled about being nominated, as it wasn’t expected.
“It really shows that the good we are doing is being recognised, and it’s fulfilling knowing that they are making a difference in the lives of our future leaders,” she said.
When asked what winning the award would mean to her, she said it would be a stamp of approval and would show that South Africa is behind DeskBags.
“Winning will make everyone realise the impact that DeskBag has.”
She said her next step is to extend the brand further into Africa.
The Lakefield resident said DeskBags have created jobs for previously disadvantaged women and men who are either disabled or unemployed or, in many instances, have suffered abuse.
She said all employees are trained as either patterncutters or seamstresses.
Shannon encourages other young people to pursue their dreams.
“I know it’s a terrifying thing to start something, especially when you don’t have a full-time job, but push through, because at the end of the day it’s the most beautiful and rewarding experience ever.”
Shannon said about 100 000 children have benefited from DeskBags since they started.
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