Phalaborwa | 22 January 2026
On 22
January 2026, the Enock Mathebula Foundation (EMF) successfully hosted its
annual Back-to-School Campaign in Phalaborwa, reaffirming its commitment
to restoring dignity, hope, and opportunity to learners through education
support.
In partnership with Foskor and Standard Bank, the Foundation visited three schools to hand over much-needed school uniforms, stationery, and toiletries to learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.
School Visits and Handover
The
campaign commenced at Mpondo Primary School, continued to Nkatekoto
High School, and concluded at Majenje High School. Nkatekoto High
School is home to current EMF mentees, while Majenje High School accommodates
EMF mentees who progressed to Grade 8 this year after completing primary
school.
At Majenje High School, the Foundation engaged with the school principal, who expressed her appreciation for the initiative and her enthusiasm for continuing the journey with EMF in supporting learners holistically. At Nkatekoto High School, the Deputy Principal, Mr Langa, shared heartfelt words of gratitude, acknowledging the positive impact EMF and its partners continue to make in the lives of learners.
Words of Encouragement and Learner Engagement
Learners
were addressed by Diditle Tlhabanyane from Foskor and Tracey from
Standard Bank, who inspired them to remain focused, disciplined, and
hopeful about their futures. Esqunita Pretorious, EMF’s Head of
Beneficiary Support, also offered words of encouragement, reminding learners
that they are supported and capable of achieving greatness despite their
circumstances.
In a
meaningful demonstration of care and dignity, the EMF team and partners
personally assisted learners in fitting their school shoes to ensure comfort
and proper sizing. EMF Director Katie Venter, Head of Beneficiary
Support Esqunita Pretorious, Diditle Tlhabanyane (Foskor), Tracey
(Standard Bank), and SG HR Fumani Miyeni worked hands-on with the
learners, reinforcing the Foundation’s belief that impact lies not only in
giving, but in showing care.
Chairman’s Brunch: Celebrating Academic Excellence
Following
the school handovers, the Foundation hosted the Chairman’s Brunch at Borwa
Lifestyle Centre, dedicated to celebrating Grade 12 mentees who
successfully completed their matric examinations in 2025.
Ten
learners who performed exceptionally well were honoured during the brunch, with
the top three achievers receiving university starter kits in
preparation for their transition to residence life as they begin their higher
education journeys.
Learners
were encouraged by Bishop Chanza, who delivered an uplifting message
centred on faith, perseverance, and purpose. Dr Enock Mathebula,
Chairman of the Foundation, congratulated all matriculants on their
achievements and reminded them that they carry not only their own dreams, but
also the hopes of their communities.
Once again, Esqunita Pretorious, Head of Beneficiary Support, shared motivational words, reinforcing EMF’s continued commitment to walking alongside beneficiaries beyond school completion.
Alumni Giving Back
Adding depth and inspiration to the day were two EMF alumni, Mbali Mathebula and Memory Mnisi, who participated in both the school handovers and the Chairman’s Brunch. Their presence stood as a powerful testament to the Foundation’s long-term impact, having once been mentees themselves and now giving back to the programme that helped shape their journeys.
Media Partnership
Ballanoto Radio partnered with the Foundation throughout the day, capturing content across all activities and amplifying the voices and stories of learners through their radio platform.
A Collective Effort for Lasting Impact
The Enock
Mathebula Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Foskor, Standard
Bank, school leadership, media partners, and the EMF team for making the
2026 Back-to-School Campaign and Chairman’s Brunch a success. Together, we
continue to build pathways of dignity, education, and opportunity for South
Africa’s future leaders.