Johannesburg, 31 July 2026 – Diepkloof Ladies FC celebrated Mandela Day at Kaalfontein Primary School in Tembisa on 31 July 2026, dedicating 67 minutes to giving back to the community through the donation of school shoes to learners. The initiative brought smiles to learners while helping them attend school with greater confidence and dignity.
The initiative was sponsored by ZAHub, an organisation that shares Marumo Cares’ vision of creating positive change in communities and providing individuals with opportunities to improve their lives.
The event opened with a warm welcome from learners at Kaalfontein Primary School, who entertained guests with exciting performances. This was followed by a speech from Oratile Mphunga, a Grade 7 learner, who welcomed the guests and highlighted the importance of coming together as a community to celebrate education and create opportunities for young people.
Jabulile Baloyi, coach of Diepkloof Ladies FC, inspired the learners with a powerful message about self-belief, kindness and the importance of hard work in achieving their dreams. She encouraged the learners to take their studies seriously while highlighting that education and sport can work hand in hand.
Using Paballo, one of the Diepkloof Ladies FC players who received a sports bursary to further her education, as an example, Baloyi demonstrated how sporting talent can open doors to educational opportunities.
“Nothing beats hard work in life,” stated Baloyi.
Kelebogile Mokhuoa, captain of Diepkloof Ladies FC, also engaged with the learners on the importance of balancing social media, education and sport. She explained that each plays a role in shaping responsible and successful young people.
“Education provides us with knowledge, sports build our character, and social media offers us a platform,” she said.
The highlight of the day came when Diepkloof Ladies FC players presented school shoes to the learners. The donation brought excitement and joy to the school community, while reinforcing the importance of supporting learners with some of the basic resources they need to participate confidently in their education.
The event concluded with an energetic gumboot dance performance by the learners, reinforcing the day’s message that dedication, perseverance and hard work can pave the way to success.
Mr Mohale, Principal of Kaalfontein Primary School, expressed his sincere appreciation to Diepkloof Ladies FC and Marumo Cares for the generous donation, describing the initiative as a meaningful investment in the learners’ futures.
He also called on partners and organisations to continue supporting the school in its efforts to provide quality education despite limited resources. In his closing remarks, he reaffirmed the school’s commitment to making the most of the resources available.
“With the little resources that we’ve got, we will always push ourselves to elevate,” he stated.
Through initiatives such as this, Marumo Cares, in collaboration with Diepkloof Ladies FC, continues to demonstrate that even seemingly small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and help address challenges within communities.
The initiative also reflects the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela, who famously said:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Marumo Cares and Diepkloof Ladies FC are committed to supporting young people and creating opportunities that enable them to learn, grow and pursue their dreams. The organisations also encourage businesses and community partners to invest in the future of young people by supporting initiatives that improve access to education and essential resources.
ENDS
