EMPOWERING DREAMS IN HLUHLUWE: UPDATES FROM HLUHLUWE 2024
In a recent visit to Ekuseni Primary School and Makhasa High School in Hluhluwe, South Africa, Founder and Chairman Sophie Lööf of the Lööf Foundation, alongside Star for Life, illuminated the path towards a brighter future for the local community. This visit not only highlighted the importance of education but also showcased the profound impact that collaborative efforts can have on shaping young minds and empowering communities.
Star for Life, an organisation dedicated to guiding young individuals away from harmful behaviours and towards a future filled with promise, has been actively engaged in this mission since 2005. Through avenues like self-awareness, health education, and the universal language of music, Star for Life endeavours to instill in youth the confidence and skills they need to navigate life’s challenges successfully.
Keys To Success
At Makhasa High School, the “Keys to Success” workshop conducted by Star for Life proved to be a game-changer. Focusing on essential skills like goal-setting, confidence-building, and effective planning, the workshop yielded remarkable results. The school achieved an astounding 100% pass rate in 2023, a testament to the transformative power of empowerment and guidance.
Teen Pregnancy
Meanwhile, Ekuseni Primary School received an informative workshop on teen pregnancy, addressing a pressing issue within the community. Additionally, the Lööf Foundation pledged to enhance the school’s feeding program, ensuring that more learners have access to nutritious meals daily. This commitment to holistic support underscores the foundation’s dedication to nurturing both the minds and bodies of the youth they serve.
Furthermore, the provision of coaches, therapists, and social workers by the foundation has created a safe and supportive environment within Ekuseni Primary School. This nurturing atmosphere has directly contributed to the school’s academic success, with its pass rate rising from 70% in 2018 to an impressive 82% in 2023.
Star For Life Mobile Health Clinic
Beyond academics, Star for Life’s mobile health clinic plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being within the community. Conducting regular HIV screenings and comprehensive health checks, this initiative ensures that young individuals have access to vital healthcare services, thereby laying the foundation for a healthier future.
As we reflect on the positive impact of these initiatives, we are reminded of the profound difference that can be made when individuals and organisations come together in pursuit of a common goal. The success stories emerging from Ekuseni Primary School and Makhasa High School serve as beacons of hope, inspiring us all to contribute to building a brighter future for our youth.