Local Businessman Brings Hope Through Back-to-School Program in Soul City and Luipaardvlei
Thabo Motlhabi
A back-to-school program led by businessman Andrew Barnard has brought renewed hope and dignity to learners from Soul City and Luipaardvlei in Mogale City on January 17, 2026, hosted in various sports grounds.
“Let’s remember: one book, one pen, and one businessman can change the world for good, of course.”
These words captured the spirit of back-to-school initiative, recently organized by local businessman Andrew Barnard.
The program aimed to support disadvantaged learners by providing 100 pairs of school shoes for both boys and girls. Moreover, girls received sanitary pads and book covering services to ensure learners were prepared and confident for the new academic year 2026.
Local businesses were highlighted as key stakeholders in community development, working hand in hand with other partners to improve living conditions—especially for vulnerable families. Many of the beneficiaries came from households where parents are unemployed and dependent on government social grants, while others receive no income support at all.
Speaking at the event, Barnard emphasized the importance of community involvement:
“There’s a need in our community, and as a local businessman, we want to start giving back. This is not about politics: everyone is here today to support and unite. Late last year, December 2025, we successfully distributed food parcels. We may not have many resources yet, but we are starting small and will grow bigger and bigger. Today, we are donating 100 school shoes and sanitary pads, and later we will serve them with food.”
As a community leader of Ward 16 in Soul City, Mr. Benjamin Kgatsu welcomed the initiative, saying:
“Today’s program is about our learners receiving school shoes and girls receiving sanitary pads. This is to boost their confidence and morale and encourage them not to bunk school. This is not about politics but about community. We thank Andrew Barnard for his continued commitment to service delivery and also for coming to help our children to focus on their education. These donations will truly help our children.”
At the conclusion of the program, parents received the donated school shoes and sanitary pads on behalf of the children, while all learners had their books neatly covered in preparation for the school academic year.
The initiative stands as a powerful example of how local businesses can play a meaningful role in uplifting communities through practical and compassionate actions.