THE Isuzu Foundation, a partnership between Isuzu Motors South Africa and its dealer network, has embarked on a drive to ‘help a child get to school’ through the donation of 250 pairs of school shoes to Primary Schools in Willowvale in the Eastern Cape.
“The Isuzu Foundation is mindful of the challenges that learners in areas such as Willowvale are confronted with daily. These include walking long distances to and from school barefoot. Through the donation of 250 school shoes, we aim to bring hope and restore the dignity of these learners”, says Isuzu department executive dealer and Business Development South African Customs Union Markets (SACU), Marcia Mayaba.
The donation forms part of the Isuzu Foundation’s response to Mandela Month, a call to action for people to recognise their individual power to make an impact and change the world around them. It also forms part of Isuzu’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy focused on education, youth empowerment, community development, and environmental impact.
“At Isuzu, we are passionate and intentional about making a positive impact within the communities within which we operate. We hope that the donation of school shoes will allow learners to focus on their studies and serve as motivation to take bold steps to navigate a bright future despite the challenging circumstances,” says Isuzu executive for corporate and public affairs, Lebogang Makoloi.
Meyers Motors in Mthatha and the Isuzu Foundation have identified Nqabarha, Nduku, Ngwane and Lower Gwadu Primary Schools to benefit from the donation, with the handover taking place at Nqabarha Senior Secondary School in conjunction with The Methodist Church of Kumkani Hintsa District.
“With the rise in unemployment in and around areas of Mthatha, learners are confronted with harsh circumstances, making it difficult for them to reach school. Through this donation, we hope to create a safe space and motivate learners to consistently attend school as the foundation for pursuing their dreams,” says dealer principal of Meyers Motors Mthatha, Ndomelele Sidlova.
