Jess bares her sole for the underprivileged

DURBAN North athlete and teacher, Jessica Khomo has started a sports equipment and shoe drive to help children from underprivileged areas.

The SPAR Proteas netball player, who teaches at Our Lady of Fatima Dominican Convent School, has been working with children from Umgababa, the Briardene Informal Settlement and learners at a primary school on the south coast.

The 26-year-old who recently started the non-profit organisation, Mpiloyonke Foundation, said she has been blown away by the support of her school in her endeavours.

The NPO mentors and educates the youth on the importance of their passion, talents and skills in empowering themselves, families and their communities.

You may be interested: Trail builder promises ‘more fun’ at Sharks Trail Adventure

“The learners and the staff have been great so far. The school has donated a whole bunch of sporting equipment which will be shared across the three communities I help. I’m currently piloting a programme called Iskolo Sethu where I’m helping Kingsburgh Primary School on the south coast with a sports programme. It is really to help get the children active and help empower the children,” she said.

Khomo explained she was also trying to collect sports equipment for Briardene.

“The boys who have formed a soccer club recently had their kit bag stolen so I’m trying to get some soccer boots and sporting equipment donated to them. I’m also hoping to help the younger girls with shoes and netball equipment,” she said.

If you would like to support the initiative, a drop off box has been placed at the school. Khomo said if schools would like to get involved she would happily go to the schools to collect.

For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram