The award, presented in partnership with Fairlady, Sarie and True Love, recognises inspiring women who are improving the lives of disadvantaged and underprivileged children in South Africa. The award was started 18 years ago as an initiative by Clarins Paris and now takes place in more than 15 countries around the world.
Midrand Reporter spoke to Andy Clarke from Botshabelo, a project in Midrand that works with abandoned children, about the nomination. She said she was thrilled to be nominated as the money would help grow Early Child Development centres she works with in Olievenhoutbosch.
“There are over 80 crèches, mostly backyard, in Olievenhoutbosch and only eight are registered. Our project, Uplifted, which is part of Botshabelo, aims to empower and seek ways to help the crèches get registered as they are a much-needed aspect in the lives of children in the area,” she said.
Clarke explained that she and her team work with women in the community who have taken on a teaching role at the centres. “We offer training and empower the women with skills and the knowledge they need to offer an education to most of the children, who come from families that are in need.”
She said the most fulfilling part of her work was seeing the teachers at the centres grow and how children enjoy coming to spend a day at the centres, a safe and educational learning environment.
“The challenge, of course, is getting the centres registered. Together with local community forums we are assisting them to become established and recognised centres of learning, we also provide lesson plans and posters for the teachers, each year we impact of 300 Grade R children who are ready for Grade 1,” said Clarke.
Jody Bunkell, communications executive at Clarins South Africa said the work done by the three finalists was inspiring. “The finalists bring educational support to children from underprivileged backgrounds. Their selfless dedication to their charities is making a big difference for so many families, empowering children to take control of their futures and, ultimately, laying a foundation for a better South Africa.”
The winner will be officially announced on 2 February next year and will receive R200 000 to support her cause and uplift the lives of the children she is working with.
Details: office@botshabelo.co.za
