World-famous pastor and motivational speaker Eric Thomas once said: “All roads that lead to success have to pass through Hardwork Boulevard at some point.”
Maloney’s Eye Primary School, situated a few kilometres from Flow client Maropeng in the Magaliesberg, surely sits on Hardwork Boulevard. Its 300-plus learners come from desperately poor homes and their education – not to mention survival – is a daily struggle, but they work hard to succeed.
Flow Communications supports Maloney’s Eye Primary School as one of its corporate social investment projects, and a recent staff whip-round at the office raised over R2 000 for the school. On Monday 1 December, Flowstars Melanie Feris, Roela Hattingh, Nomthandazo Peyise and Daphney Mngomeni, and I were pleased to visit the school for a special festive season event to treat the learners and hand over the donation.
"Flowstars are known for their generosity to others. I was so proud that we were able to yet again dig deep and raise a substantial contribution in cash towards giving something to the children at Maloney's Eye Primary School before Christmas," said Flow’s CEO Tara Turkington.
The event was arranged by Flow client Maropeng, a long-standing supporter of the school, and several of Maropeng’s suppliers were invited to go along. The learners were treated with food packs and toiletries, and the top achievers in each grade received gifts.
The school’s principal, Mpho Sechotlo, was very thankful for the generosity of the visitors. "This brings a feeling of emotion. Getting all this help from the sponsors; it’s something that is worth being grateful for," she said.
Upon our arrival we were warmly welcomed by Cathy Findley, managing director of Cathy Findley Public Relations, and Rob Jackson, chairman of the Dads’ Charity Challenge.
The children were delighted at the arrival of all the visitors, singing and performing traditional dances to welcome them.
The event was very inspiring. Thapelo Marais, who is currently training to be a pastor, was one of the speakers. He emphasised the value of being grateful, and he encouraged the children to acknowledge what they are and what they have.
Lindsay Marshall, Maropeng’s marketing manager, had this advice for the children: "Follow your dreams. Whatever they are, you will make it at the end of the day."
