School uniforms of hope and heart

What began as a small personal mission to clothe a few children in need has grown into a ripple of kindness, thanks to a woman from Lawaaikamp.

- Kristy Kolberg

Samkela Gala (33), a working woman in retail, has been quietly making a big difference in the lives of local schoolchildren, many of whom come from extremely difficult circumstances.

Driven by her passion for education and community upliftment, Gala has taken it upon herself to provide full school uniforms for 15 children between the ages of seven and 12 of Mzoxolo Primary School in Lawaaikamp. Her self-funded initiative, which has yet to be formally named, aims to restore dignity and confidence to those children who often arrive at school without many necessities.

"It's heartbreaking to see a child start their day already at a disadvantage," said Gala. "No child should feel unseen or unworthy simply because they can't afford a uniform."

Mandela Day with meaning