Local Businesses Join Hands on Mandela Day
Mandela Day was momentous for two ECD facilities in Knysna, with local businesses coming together to give back to their community. This story of transformation began in the beginning of July when Kim Gess from Jeeves contacted Knysna Education Trust (KET) to nominate ECD facilities needing assistance. KET pointed them in the direction of two – Little Learners in Nekkies and Microtech Educare Centre in Concordia.
After visiting the ECD facilities and assessing their needs, Jeeves came up with a plan of action. For Microtech Educare Centre, they organized a discount with Kloppers for essential equipment, furnishing their kitchen with a new fridge, microwave, gas hob and bottle. This will assist the practitioners who work at the facility to provide warm, cooked meals for the children.
In addition, vinyl flooring was installed in the kitchen and one of the classrooms. The new flooring addresses safety concerns posed by uneven and aging floors, ensuring a more conducive environment for learning and play. Principal Petronella said “When you walk into the class you can see such a difference – it’s lighter, it’s brighter, and it looks very very nice. I appreciate it.” She added that the facility can obtain their Health Certificate now, thanks to the contributions in their kitchen.
Meanwhile, Little Learners was in dire need of structural repairs. Jeeves contracted Shaun Manual Carpentry, who agreed to rebuild the facility at a discount. BUCO, Steel & Pipes and Boltfast assisted to provide the building materials, and the rebuild included new cement floors and an entirely new structure.
Principal Khanyisa said “I don’t know how to describe my feeling right now. One thing I can say is that I’m very excited with my new school. As from today I would be proud to advertise my school as I was ashamed before because of the situation of the old school.”
Once the structure is complete, another local business, Seaqual, has volunteered to paint the facility. The final step in the transformation will be when Carpet Co. installs carpets, while Knysna Foam donated a customised mattress for the new nappy-changing table.
Lastly, Knysna Press and Creative Design Studio designed and printed new signs for both facilities.
This was an amazing convergence of resources by Knysna businesses to making a significant difference in our community, improving the learning environments of 63 children. As Nelson Mandela said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”
