The first day of school is a feeling that many of us will never forget. It usually represents feelings of excitement and joy to meet new friends and learn new things. Children also eagerly await new school supplies for the first day of school, such as stationery, and school uniforms. Unfortunately, most households cannot afford to buy staple school supplies for their children after the festive season. Using the Back to School campaign, the Hollywood Foundation aims to ensure that children, who are based in predominantly disadvantaged areas in South Africa, are given basic school supplies to assist them as they prepare for the year ahead.
19 January 2023 marked the first day of school for learners in KwaZulu-Natal. To continue with the Back to School campaign that kicked off last year in the province, the Purple Team partnered with The Sharks to make a difference in the lives of many learners this year. The Team braved the heat and headed to Hluhluwe Primary School in the North Coast, to hand over school supplies. The learners’ excitement as the Team arrived with Mpilo Gumede from The Sharks and Sharkie, set the hall on fire. The guest of honour and fast-paced loose forward, who also happens to be from Mtubatuba, took to the stage and motivated the learners, where he highlighted the importance of taking pride in their studies. The learners were excited to receive this special visit on their very first day, and they were more than happy to engage in song and dance items to show their appreciation to the Team for their support.
Mr Louis van der Watt, the Principal of Hluhluwe Primary School, said that this is the first time in more than 18 years that the school has ever received assistance from any organisation, and he expressed his gratitude to both the Hollywood Foundation and The Sharks for their generosity.
