Keagan de Melo seems to be having fun – a flashback to 2019 (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
Last November a highly succesful fundraising event based on BMX match races between jockeys and kids in the Songo.info programme was held at Kenilworth.
“It was a hugely successful event, which we’re repeating on 21 November, after the running of the last race. The jockeys are looking forward to reversing what was largely one-way traffic last year. Of course, the super-competitive kids are hoping to extend their lead!” organiser Oscar Foulkes told the Sporting Post on Monday.
However, Oscar adds that this isn’t just about having some fun.
“The big picture is that the funds raised from the event support the Songo programme, which delivers life skills and educational support to kids in the Kayamandi community (in Stellenbosch). Already at a massive disadvantage due to 60-plus pupils per classroom, not to mention the socio-economic factors that limit their opportunities for both learning and earning, the extended lockdown effectively shut down their education. The home-schooling that has been the subject of memes was not an option for them.”
Oscar points out that this experience demonstrated how important it would be to escalate Songo’s move into digital learning, as well as investing more resources around the kids’ education.
“Unfortunately, they cannot rely on the schools in the community to set them up for life,” he concludes.
There are just a few jockey sponsorships remaining. The donation is R5000, and a Section 18a certificate is available.
Anyone interested should contact Oscar Foulkes – [email protected] or on mobile (083)297 3402
Please watch the clip to find out more
