“If you want to change the world, you change the world of a child”.
The spirit of Patricia Schroeder’s words was felt at RA Padayachee Primary School (RAP), in Shakashead, on Monday morning, 11 May 2021. Simbithi Eco-Estate was thrilled to officially hand over a new Early Childhood Development prefabricated classroom to the school’s principal, Mrs. Aleen Maharaj and her delightful Grade R learners.
Mrs. Maharaj and her team of dedicated educators presented a heart-warming programme of song and dance, during which learners expressed their thanks to Simbithi for the donation.
Simbithi Eco-Estate’s partnership with RA Padayachee Primary School began in 2017, when General Manager, Malcolm Samuel was paired with Mrs. Maharaj in the first North Coast circle of the Partners for Possibility initiative. Mr. Samuel and Mrs. Maharaj forged a strong partnership and the school, and surrounding community of Shakashead, benefited from Simbithi’s active Community Social Investment (CSI).
In 2019, the Simbithi golf committee raised R110 303,42 through a charity golf day, which was allocated to the classroom project. The 2020 COVID-19 lockdown caused some delay to the delivery of the facility, but eventually the project was completed a few weeks ago. All involved, including contractor GR Extra Space, were ecstatic to see the finished product, sitting proudly on the school field.
Speaking on Monday, Mr. Samuel commented on the strength of community. “When I first visited RA Padayachee shortly after I was partnered with Mrs. Maharaj, she remarked on their desperate need for more classroom space, specifically for ECD. I am proud of our association with RAP and of how generously our community keeps giving to our CSI projects.”
Golf section Chairman, Mr. Brad Caulfield, pledged further support for the school and even joined the learners in a rendition of the popular Jerusalema dance! “It is humbling to be a part of your school’s story. You are our future of Ballito. I hope, one day, to see all of you excel. We are proud to be in partnership with you.”
SEEHOA Chairman, Mr. Jeff Leaver, also wished the educators and learners well for the future.
An emotional Mrs. Maharaj beamed as she stepped into the new classroom. “This is a historic day. Simbithi, I cannot even begin to thank you for what you have done for our school. To you, it might seem like a small gesture but, for us, it means everything. We will look after this gift you have given us.”
Watch the presentation on our YouTube channel!
If you would like to find out how you may assist the school, please contact hr@simbithi.com
