Orginisation donates 50 winter uniforms in Thembisa

The Citizen

19-06-2025

Growthpoint Properties, in partnership with the NPO Threads for IKasi Foundation, donated 50 full winter school uniforms to learners at Ikusasa Comprehensive School in Thembisa.
The handover ceremony on May 23 highlighted the spirit of employee-driven social impact. Each uniform set includes a jersey, Drimac, trousers, a shirt, shoes, socks and a winter beanie.
This donation is part of the Growthpoint Gives programme, which empowers staff to participate in upliftment initiatives within their communities.
Ikusasa Comprehensive School has steadily improved its matric pass rate, rising from 77.1% in 2021 to an impressive 95.8% in 2024.
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The school aims for a 100% pass rate and a 75% Bachelor's pass rate this year. It also promotes holistic development through the arts, sports, culture and awareness campaigns on bullying, substance abuse and health.
Despite its progress, the school supports many vulnerable learners, including eight child-headed households and 47 orphans.
It faces infrastructure challenges and urgently needs better resources, technology and classroom upgrades.
Principal Gladwell Makhoba expressed gratitude,'These uniforms mean more than just clothing. They restore dignity, boost self-esteem and remind our learners that they matter. The support sends a powerful message: our children are seen, valued and have a community that believes in their future.'
Threads for IKasi has implemented similar initiatives at over a dozen schools in Thembisa. The foundation's mission is to ensure no child is left behind by creating supportive environments that foster emotional, social and academic growth.
'For me, a school uniform means more than clothing; it represents pride, belonging and a promise of potential,' said Khabo Mnguni, the co-founder of Threads for IKasi.
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'Growing up in the township, I saw how something as simple as a uniform can transform a child's self-image.
'That's why this mission is so close to my heart. Our partnership with Growthpoint weaves a golden thread of care into these learners' futures. It's about dignity, confidence and showing our children they are seen, supported and worthy.'
The donation aligns with Growthpoint Gives' core values, encouraging employees to lead with empathy and make a tangible impact.
'A Growthpoint team member introduced us to Threads for IKasi and brought Ikusasa's needs to our attention,' said Shawn Theunissen, the head of corporate social responsibility at Growthpoint Properties.
'We are honoured to support this initiative. Beyond providing warmth this winter, it affirms dignity and helps learners focus on their education without added hardship.'
Growthpoint's corporate social responsibility approach reflects its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.
Through Growthpoint Gives, every employee gets eight hours annually to volunteer in their communities, reinforcing a culture of service.
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'We believe corporate responsibility lives not just in boardrooms, but in every hand that helps,' Theunissen added.
'This donation is one part of our broader commitment to employees, their communities and education. Partnerships with educators will drive meaningful progress toward building a better life for all.'
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