New shoes bring hope and joy to Mitchell’s Plain pupils

Smiles lit up the faces of pupils at West End Primary School in Mitchell’s Plain as they stepped into the hall to receive brand-new school shoes — a gift from a Good Samaritan.

The Samaritan’s Feet South Africa Foundation donated more than 600 pairs of shoes to pupils on Wednesday, October 22, bringing comfort, confidence, and hope to many children in need.

The foundation’s founder, Manny Ohonme, understands the struggles of poverty firsthand. Growing up in Nigeria, he often walked to school barefoot and went to bed hungry. His life changed when Americans discovered him during a basketball outreach programme — an opportunity that took him to the United States, where he built a new life and a mission to give back.

“I used to carry a bucket, selling water and soft drinks barefoot,” he recalled.

“There were times I prayed to God just for supper to make it through the day. When I finally earned money, I thought first about those who were like me. That’s why I established a shoe company.”

That company, now based in Ghana, produces millions of shoes and supports the foundation’s mission to serve communities across Africa. Before handing out the shoes, Mr Ohonme shared how humbling it was to be in Mitchell’s Plain for such a meaningful cause. He urged the children to stay humble, value education, and dream big.

“Right before me today, I see children who may one day become presidents, police chiefs, judges, business leaders, and even pastors,” he said.

“No one should tell them they can’t achieve something. It doesn’t matter where they begin. They were created for a purpose — to change the world.”

West End Primary was selected through a partnership between Samaritan’s Feet South Africa,  the Deen Louw Foundation, and Rivers of Life.

Deen Louw Foundation founder Deen Louw said he was honoured to support such an initiative.

“Giving a child a pair of shoes might seem small, but to that child, it means the world,” he said.

Mr Louw’s foundation has long been a pillar of hope in the community, providing meals and clothing to those in need. “I couldn’t just sit back while people around me are struggling,” he added.

Representing the school, teacher Mymoena Moses expressed gratitude on behalf of the principal and staff.

“What you are doing today reminds us of the value of being helpful — one of our core values,” she said.

“Your generosity is a true testament to community spirit. We know the impact this will have on our learners, and words cannot fully express our gratitude.”

As the formalities ended, the atmosphere in the hall turned joyful. The children eagerly washed their feet before slipping into their new shoes, their smiles lighting up the room. Many shared their dreams to become teachers, lawyers, and pilots, inspired by the kindness shown to them.