This laaitie from Lansdowne is working hard to fulfill his dream of competing in the national karate championships in October.
Raees Jassiem, seven, needs about R8000 to compete after qualifying at the Western Province trials earlier this year, but instead of asking for donations, he is running his own stalletjie in Rylands, selling atchars, dried fruit and sauces.
ENCOURAGE: His stalletjie innie Rylands. Photo: Monique Duval
Proud mom, Fazlin, says Raees took up karate when he was just four years old.
“He watched a lot of movies and always liked karate so we took him to GoJu Kai in Mowbray. Initially he used to cry but we encouraged him to keep at it and he’s done exceptionally well,” she says.
The Grade 1 learner from Grove Primary School received his WP colours earlier this year and is now training five times a week as he aims for glory at the South African Goju Kai Championships to be held in Stellenbosch.
He currently has an orange belt.
AIM: Raees Jassiem of Lansdowne. Photo: Monique Duval
Fazlin says when they received the letter, they were excited but soon realised the competition would cost them.
“He needs about R4000 for the champs but in addition, he needs the protective gear and other equipment. He needs about R8000 in total and so we encouraged him to do something to earn the money and that is when he started the stall on Saturdays,” says Fazlin.
“He sells dried fruits, glasses, atchar and homemade sauces. We took the money he got for Eid and bought the initial stock and it just took off after there. So far he has raised R3000.”
Speaking to the Daily Voice on Thursday, Raees said: “I like karate because you learn to be disciplined. I am excited for the competition and I want to win.”
Oupa Moegamat Dout, 67, helped him erect the stall along Reen Avenue in front of Elite, which is open every Saturday from 8.30am to 2pm.
If you would like to assist Raees, send a WhatsApp message to 073 406 7417.