PUPILS were all smiling as they queued to receive school shoes.
This was a special gift for them since the schools reopened for the 2024 academic year on Wednesday, 17 January.
Represented by their NGOs, more than 1 000 pupils were happy to receive school shoes from DJ Shimza's Shimuzic Foundation and Hollywood Bets Foundation.
Shimza, whose real name is Ashley Raphala, said the money he used was from his One Man shows, with the last one held at Mehlareng Stadium in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni on 25 December.
He said the Hollywood Bets Foundation joined hands with him to make a difference in many kids' lives under the theme "Hopeful Souls".
"These shoes already have owners. We have the names and other details of the beneficiaries. We asked those organisations who know disadvantaged kids who may not benefit today to leave their names," he said.
DJ Shimza promised there'd be a second round where more schoolkids would receive shoes.
ALSO READ: Dr Malinga crawls back to ANC
Comedian Skhumba made a brief appearance as he entertained guests and motivated pupils to work hard in their studies.
The Rabasotho Community Centre roared in thunderous joy as media personality Somizi Mhlongo arrived.
Somgaga, as Somizi is popularly known, came to support DJ Shimza.
Hollywood Bet Foundation representative Welsh Mukombachoto said they were pleased to join hands with the Shimuzic Foundation to make a difference in the lives of pupils from Tembisa schools.
Sergeant Pitsi Makgatho of Rabasotho cop shop's social crime Prevention unit urged parents to teach their children addresses, especially those going to school for the first time.
She also encouraged pupils not to bully one another.
"Say no to bullying," she said.
Masechaba Sibiya, who represents NGOs in Tembisa and is the founder of Tshepang Care Centre, said they thank God for giving them Shimza.
"We thank God for blessing us with Shimza and for his mum to allow him to bless Tembisa. May God give him all his heart's desires," said Tshepang.
Another beneficiary, Mervis Mkhize, a member of a charity organisation called Trimax Fitness Club in Rabie Ridge,said they were pleased their children benefited.
"About 35 of our kids will receive brand-new shoes and we say thank you to Shimza."
