A wave of generosity hit local schools on Monday, 2 February, as the Sydenham Taxi Operators Association, in partnership with the Sydenham Scholar Transport Association, rolled out 120 brand-new school shoes to learners in need. The donations were spread across four local schools, bringing smiles to countless young faces.
The tour kicked off at Charles Hugo School, where the associations were welcomed by principal Allan Harms, the department head, and a group of eager learners. “My heart goes to both associations for this support. This kind gesture will go a long way, as many of our children are in need of proper school shoes. The relationship we have with STOA is long-standing, and we hope it continues for years to come,” Harms said.
Next up was St Theresa’s RC Primary School, where the head boy Cruz Lawrence and head girl Zoey Prince accepted the donations. principal Everad Simpson praised the initiative, saying the timing couldn’t have been better. “This donation fits perfectly with our school theme this year, which is all about doing good.It will reach the learners who need it most.”
At Spearman Primary, excitement filled the air as learners eagerly picked out the new shoes. Acting principal, Nitrvana Rattipaul expressed heartfelt thanks to the associations. “Many of our parents struggle to provide uniforms and school shoes. This donation could not have come at a better time, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.”
The final stop was Clayton Primary School, where Acting principal, Imraan Osman welcomed the team. “Our school has been very fortunate to be identified as a deserving beneficiary,” Osman said.
Rahman Bux, secretary of the Sydenham Taxi Operators Association, thanked the taxi owners, operators, and the scholar transport association for making this year’s shoe drive a huge success. “Without everyone’s contribution, this would not have been possible. We hope our next donation drive will be even bigger, helping more schools across the community. We are grateful to the parents, learners, and their families for supporting the taxi association in this initiative,” said Bux.
The shoe drive not only provided much-needed support but also highlighted the ongoing commitment of local transport associations to the welfare of Sydenham’s children.
