For many children, a worn-out pair of school shoes is more than an inconvenience. It can affect their confidence, expose them to ridicule, and make them feel excluded from their peers.
Recognising this challenge, Bongani Denice Maphanga from Steelpoort in Limpopo told News24 that he dedicated his time and skills to helping learners put their best foot forward.
The young cobbler repaired school shoes for disadvantaged learners free of charge, ensuring that children from struggling households could attend school with dignity and confidence. His initiative was inspired by his own experiences as a learner and the hardships he witnessed among classmates growing up.
Maphanga remembered seeing learners being teased because of their worn shoes or because they carried their books in plastic bags. The experience often affected their self-esteem and, in some cases, discouraged them from attending school.
Having learned shoe repair skills from his grandfather while still at school, Maphanga used those skills to help fellow learners and earn pocket money. After finishing school, he eventually established his own business, Denice Shoe Repairs, and continued supporting children in his community.
His impact extended beyond repairing damaged shoes. When a pair was too worn to fix, he often used money from paying customers to purchase new shoes for learners in need. Parents who could not afford repairs frequently expressed their gratitude, with some offering small donations to support his efforts.
What made Maphanga’s contribution particularly meaningful was the difference he observed in the children he helped.
According to him, learners became more confident, more focused on their schoolwork, and more enthusiastic about attending school. The simple act of receiving repaired shoes helped restore their sense of pride and belonging.
His work demonstrates that addressing barriers to education is not always about large-scale interventions. Sometimes, small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on a child’s educational journey.
By helping learners walk into school with confidence, Maphanga not only repaired shoes but also helped restore dignity, encourage participation in education, and strengthen community support for children who needed it most.
Description:
A young cobbler from Limpopo used his skills to repair school shoes for disadvantaged learners free of charge, helping restore confidence, dignity, and a sense of belonging among children who might otherwise have felt excluded.
Editor’s Note:
This story highlights how a simple act of service can have a profound impact on children’s wellbeing and educational experience. It demonstrates how community members can use their skills to address everyday challenges that often prevent children from participating fully in school life.
