KZN girl’s selfless can collection to raise money for her school stationery

WHEN 13-year-old Gabriella

- MONISHKA GOVENDER

GABRIELLA Mahabeer with her collection of cans. I Supplied

Mahabeer began collecting cans to help with her school stationery costs, she never expected to inspire thousands.Living with her aunt after her mother’s stroke, this determined teen’s small initiative has captured hearts across South Africa, and shown that age is no barrier to making a difference.

Gabriella was inspired by an unlikely source — homeless people collecting cans.

It all started when Nirashnee Govender, 46, owner of the NGO called Rescued Paw Friends in Tugela, shared a video on TikTok of her niece, Gabriella, collecting cans to raise money for stationery.

She never imagined the video would go viral.

Govender took in Gabriella in 2024 after her mother suffered a stroke, and her grandmother was unable to care for both of them.

“She was 11 years old at the time. We did not mind taking her in. We love having her with us, and she is happy to be with us,” Govender said.

Govender has a history of supporting extended family members.