Bhodla vows to touch more lives through its school shoes campaign 

  

Kwa-Thema – Bhodla Lets Talk, a local NPO, handed over 50 school shoes and sanitary pads to its beneficiaries on February 16.

The handover was at Calvary Bible Church International in Kwa-Thema. The initiative, spearheaded by Bhodla Lets Talk’s founder and TV personality Phume Khethang, is in its fifth year.

The annual school shoes and sanitary pads drive has not only provided essential items to students in need but also fostered a culture of care, dignity, and empowerment within the community.

“When my late husband and I started, the need in KwaThema touched our hearts and we wanted to make a change and instil hope in the future generation. One act of kindness can change a child’s view about their education and we wanted to inspire that,” said Phume.

This year’s handover was a testament to the growth and impact of this initiative. School teachers, sponsors, and community members who have played a crucial role in driving the campaign forward attended the event.

Over 50 children received new school shoes and sanitary pads, ensuring they could focus on their education without barriers of inadequate resources.

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“The 50 pairs of school shoes we have given out today are just the few who can attend today. The rest we will deliver to the relevant beneficiaries. This year we collected over 150 shoes and are humbled because this is from people who support the initiative,” said Phume.

She said when they started the initiative, they aimed at supporting a small group of learners. But this has grown and benefitted four schools and other community groups and individuals requesting assistance.

“Over the years, the campaign has gained momentum, drawing in local businesses, community members, and volunteers eager to be part of the change.

What was once a school-specific project has now expanded to assist families and young people across the community and that humbles me. We can only hope it will get better and we can support more learners,” said Phume.

She expressed gratitude and joy at the handover.

“Thank you to Isenzo Logistics, who have been with us the past three years and every year they show up and ensure we get shoes for learners.

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“Also, Greensky Brand Architects, School of Affirmations in Germiston and every individual who made this initiative a success,” said Phume.

Beneficiaries this year were from Msobomvu and Theo Twala primary schools, Calvary Bible Church International and individuals in and around KwaThema. She said she was delighted to donate to the church this year because of the role they play in the community.

“The church does several outreach projects to create a better community and cater to children in need. When the church sent a request this year, we were happy to answer the call. A church can be a support system for a child and Calvary is that kind of church,” said Phume.

The church also does outreach programmes for the youth and pre-loved clothes handouts. She said the impact of the school shoes and sanitary pads drive continues to grow with each passing year.

Plans are already in motion to expand the initiative, reaching more schools and households in need. As the initiative moves forward, one thing remains; this is a movement powered by compassion, unity, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive.

What started as a small act of kindness has now become a beacon of hope, proving when a community comes together, real change is possible. Bhodla School Shoes has donated over 2 500 shoes since its inception. Anyone who wants to donate to the NPO or to know more about what they do can contact them at 076 0355 872.

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