While many learners across South Africa proudly put on their school uniforms each morning, the reality is quite different for hundreds, possibly thousands of children who face a daily struggle to attend school without proper school shoes.
Recognising this challenge, YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay relaunched its impactful school shoe campaign last month, during Human Rights Month, to address the gap, and restore dignity to learners in need. The youth-focused nonprofit organisation, situated in the Northern Areas of Gqeberha, has been running this initiative for the past four years under the leadership of CEO Lerato Lebopo.
Highlighting the necessity of the campaign, Lebopo said, “Some children don’t even know their shoe size because they last received school shoes years ago. This initiative is not just about footwear; it’s about restoring dignity and ensuring that every child can walk into school with confidence.”
This year, YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay received a generous contribution from the local business, The Little Slipper, which enabled the organisation to expand the reach of its campaign even further. The team recently visited Mzimhlophe Primary School, and Esitiyeni Primary School, both located in under-resourced communities in Zwide, where families often struggle to afford even the most basic needs.
For many children here, new school shoes are a luxury their families cannot afford. Despite this, learners remain committed to their education, and the gift of new shoes brings not only relief but also motivation.
Fion Mfenqa, Public Relations and Communications Manager at YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay, explained the broader significance of their ongoing efforts: “Our mission has always been about empowering young people for life, leadership, and service. Campaigns like this one go beyond just providing shoes – they remind children that someone cares and that simple gestures can help overcome barriers to education,” she said.
The campaign has also gained international attention and support. Eric Mann, President and CEO of YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, reflected on the impact of the 2025 US YMCA Coalition’s visit to the Mandela Bay YMCA.
“The visit has been emotional, inspiring, and impactful. Participating in the shoe programme is an experience we will never forget. The pure joy of seeing the kids’ faces when they received new shoes is priceless and a blessing – ‘good work in action.’”
For the learners at Mzimhlophe and Esitiyeni Primary Schools, the distribution of school shoes represents more than just charity; it is hope and encouragement woven into every step they take towards their future. The campaign aims to ensure that their access to education is not derailed by something as basic as footwear, Mfenqa expressed.
“Through initiatives like this, YMCA Nelson Mandela Bay aims to continue to uphold its mission of addressing critical youth issues in the region. By empowering those in need, the organisation is taking meaningful steps, both literally and figuratively, to build a brighter future for South Africa’s youth,” she concluded.
