BOPHELONG – A young philanthropist, Babi Makhetha has put smiles on the faces of needy pupils from Bophelong.
This comes after the 32-year-old Sasolburg-born youngster donated 51 pairs of Toughees to Emfuleni Primary School at the end of last month.
According to Makhetha, her donation was not just about delivering footwear, but about reviving hope and pride in those coming from underprivileged backgrounds.
Speaking to Ster South, Makhetha, a proud participant in the DA’s Young Leaders Programme explained why the project was close to her heart.
“My little brother used to attend Emfuleni, and I’ve seen firsthand the struggles these kids go through. When I was chosen for this leadership programme, I knew I wanted to help them.”
The programme annually picks 20 young people nationwide and encourages participants to take on leadership projects that positively impact their communities.
For Makhetha, helping children regain their dignity by replacing their worn out shoes was just the be-ginning.
“We wanted to give them high-quality shoes to last, and I’m hoping to provide school uniforms in the future,” she added.
Makhetha isn’t stopping there.
She’s in the process of turning her passion project into a registered NPO and is already planning a follow-up visit to Emfuleni Primary in January.
Speaking at the event, Local DA MP and Head of Emfuleni West Constituency, Tumelo Ramongalo praised the initiative.
“Seeing the smiles was emotional. Babi is a shining example of what leadership can do for our communi-ties. My hope is that these children, now standing tall in their new shoes, will realise the power of edu-cation to change their futures.”.
Ramongalo was joined by Emfuleni North Political Head Kingsol Chabalala and Vaal Regional Chairperson Prudence Nhlapo-Hlanyane as well as Midvaal MMC Thembi Maduna Modiba.
