Four underprivileged matriculants from Symphony High School were able to slay their big day with a memorable matric ball experience thanks to Hair Whizz Beauty Salon in Belhar.
The matriculants were uitgevat and fully sponsored with hair, make-up, dresses, suits, nails and kwaai cars, while being escorted by Grim Reapers Bikers all free of charge.
Founder of Hair Whizz Beauty Salon Lizel Fransman started the initiative in 2021, reaching out to different schools in Belhar and helping matriculants in need who thought they would not be able to go their matric ball, attend their matric ball in style.
The lucky learners were Mfuneko Stancu, Madiana Yonda, Dion Kadzombe and Nuru Mohammed
Lizel explained: “Our initiative aims to bridge the gap in support for underprivileged learners.
"We believe that every child deserves to feel confident and celebrated, regardless of their background. Our motivation stems from the lack of support for scholars in our community, and we are committed to making a positive difference in their lives.
"We are overwhelmed with joy knowing that our initiative is bringing together the community to support our future leaders. By providing these learners with a chance to feel glamorous and confident, we hope to boost their self-esteem and create lifelong memories.
"The selection of learners is made in collaboration with the schools. We send letters to the principals, and they help us identify the learners who need our support the most. This process allows us to understand the unique needs of each learner and provide targeted support.”
Nuru Mohammed said she was raised by her grandmother as her mother is on drugs and is very thankful for the opportunity.
Ouma se kind Nuru told the Daily Voice: "My grandmother sacrificed so much for me and took me under her wing because my mother is on drugs. She used to work, day and night and I am so thankful.
"I always dreamt of attending my matric ball because it is a chance to celebrate all the long nights, tears and hard work I put in to make it this far.
"When I saw Hair Whizz had a sponsorship, I immediately wrote my essay and was happy I was chosen.
Proud ouma, Johanna Abrahams said that she is grateful for the sponsorship as she was not in a financial position to send her child to her matric ball.
“I found out about the sponsorship through family. I am a single parent and having financial issues. I am very thankful for this donation and appreciative.”