50 hampers given to Emshukantambo Secondary learners
We also wanted to show these learners that you can come out of a township school and be successful - Lindiwe Bhayi
50 learners at Emshukantambo Secondary School were the lucky recipients of toiletry hampers. The event, held at the school on Thursday morning, was the brainchild of a group called Umuntu Ngumuntu Ngabantu.
10 girls from each of the school’s 5 grades were given the hampers. Inside each hamper was toothpaste, soap, sanitary towels and deodorant amongst others.
Speaking on behalf of Umuntu Ngumuntu Ngabantu, Lindiwe Bhayi, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
“What we are doing today is all about boosting self-esteem. We’ve all been here before and know the challenges that young girls face when it comes to hygiene and how it can affect their self-esteem. Some may be too embarrassed to talk about it, but not every single parent will be able to afford these. So that’s why we decided to come here today and ease that burden. We also wanted to show these learners that you can come out of a township school and be successful,” she said.
Bhayi is a former learner at the school, having graduated her matric in 2008. She spoke to learners about her experience under the guidance of teachers like Pule Hlahane. The initiative also received support from local activists, Miss Township South Africa 2021 Semi-finalist, Goitsimang Eland and Miss Unity 2021 Finalist, Buhle Nkabinde. Both the pageant queen-hopefuls shared advice with the young ladies as well as conducting guided mentorship sessions.
Emshukantambo Secondary’s Projects Co-ordinator, Pule Hlahane extended the school’s gratitude to everyone who contributed.
“We are very proud to see these young women team up and decide to give back to learners. Some of them are former learners at the school and that tells us that we are doing a good job. We are just very grateful and I think learners have been inspired today,” concluded Hlahane.
