The two Heideveld High School matriculants who asked for assistance with their matric ball had a jol at the dance on Wednesday night, thanks to the Daily Voice’s caring readers.
After reading about the plight of Thandokuhle Songelwa and Nicole Mutemi, several people offered their services to the teens, doing their make-up, hair and nails and getting outfits and shoes for them.
Since 2016, Thulani Philani Ngwenya from Gugulethu has been assisting needy learners with their matric balls, and he approached the Voice for help.
“The response has been amazing. We got calls from people as far as Atlantis offering to help.”
Zintle Sonxi, make-up artist Fezeka Dyantyi, Thonelwa Nkwenkwezi-Mlambo and Natasha Tlhapi joined hands to make sure the teens were the belles at their ball.
“As a young woman myself, I know how important and exciting it is going to your matric dance and I am glad the girls were not afraid to ask for help,” says Zintle.
“You don’t have to miss out on opportunities because you’re ashamed to ask, memories like these last a lifetime.
“There were other people as well that we worked with, who also read the article, so the girls had a lot of options and could wear elegant expensive outfits and make-up like all other privileged learners at the school.”
Video: Supplied
Thandokuhle says her ball was all she imagined it would be: “I don’t know what to say because I really enjoyed every moment.
“Thank you so much to those who helped me, may God bless you.”
Video: Supplied
Nicole adds: “It was an amazing experience, a dream come true. I didn’t want the event to end.
“Thank you Daily Voice for your help and everyone else, especially Philani who organised everything. We’ll never forget these moments.”