Occupational therapist Sam Toweel-Moore is passionate about people and has a huge regard for the resilience of the human spirit.
As the daughter of ex-Olympic boxer Willie Toweel, the Growing Champions founder has seen first-hand what hard work and discipline can achieve.
“That’s where the ‘champions’ element of the name comes from. I come from a family of boxing champions. My father taught me that we all have choices, we don’t have to stay stuck. The ‘growing’ aspect is another facet I’m passionate about – growing others; growing their potential.”
The Fairland resident works closely with the community of Kersiedorp in Eldorado Park.
“These kids are fighting crime, poverty, drugs and cruelty. And it’s not that their parents don’t care – they do. There are just trials being faced by everyone. Growing Champions, a not-for-profit organisation, aims to help them by building on the tenets of leadership, service, celebrating the small things and uniting the community.”
Aside from running leadership and character development programmes, the children are also taught about service to the community.
They have run the Gift of the Givers marathon for the last three years to raise funds for Reach for a Dream.
There is also a huge focus on education with Toweel-Moore, trying to work closely with the schools to get extra assistance for students.
Toweel-Moore also focuses on character building through sport. “Some of these children are really talented footballers. Sport teaches them discipline and a code of honour.”
Despite all her efforts, Toweel-Moore cannot do it alone.
When asked what the community can do to help, her list is practical:
- Any educational support. The children need help with their studies.
- Transport – the footballers don’t have a van to get to and from games. They have to rely on taxis which is not always safe. In a recent trip, the wheel came off the taxi transporting them. Taxis cost about R1 500 per week.
- Any toiletries and school supplies.
- Anyone who can sponsor a child’s rental in a place of safety. Toweel-Moore has been able to move some children into flats in Westdene to allow them to focus on their education.
- Career counselling for the students who don’t know what the academic requirements are for their chosen career paths, and in some instances, they don’t know what their chosen careers properly entail.
- Any football kit, boots, balls, shin guards or tack suits.
Anyone who would like to get involved with Growing Champions can contact Toweel-Moore directly.
Details:
Sam Toweel-Moore, 082 803 3866.
