On 23 January 2026, the LK Foundation donated 120 pairs of school shoes to learners at Edalinceba Primary School, Duduza Primary School, and Sibonisiwe Primary School in Duduza, Ekurhuleni, as part of its Back-to-School Drive. This annual drive, in its 3rd year, is part of the foundation’s continued commitment to supporting learners from disadvantaged backgrounds as they begin the academic year.
This year’s theme, “Walking into the Year with Confidence”, focused on addressing one of the most basic yet essential learner needs: adequate school footwear for children at the primary school level. “For the LK Foundation, school shoes represent far more than material donation. They symbolise each child’s schooling journey that is shaped by diverse circumstances, challenges and aspirations,” said Simisile Simelane, founder of LK Foundation. “Through this drive, the foundation is not only supporting learners to attend school with dignity but also affirms that their different journeys matter and deserve care and support,” Simisile.
Not far from this notion, LK Foundation’s formation stems from a deeply personal journey shaped by perseverance and the transformative power of support. While working in the United States of America as an Au Pair. Simisile received meaningful care and support from her host grandmother, Laurance Kaplan, whose belief in her potential left a lasting impact. On her birthday in 2020, Laurance Kaplan gifted Simisile a monetary gift, an act that inspired the formation of the LK Foundation, named in Laurance Kaplan’s honour.
This year’s drive marked a significant milestone for the foundation, as it expanded its reach to two additional schools: Duduza Primary School and Sibonisiwe Primary School, the additional support reflects the foundation’s growing impact and commitment to serving more learners within the Duduza community. “Beyond material support, we are building long-term learner support systems and developing initiatives that promote mental health awareness. The foundation aims to positively impact learners’ overall school experience by addressing both the practical needs and providing emotional wellness support,” said Simisile.
“This work would not be possible without the dedication and selfless contribution of our volunteers, as well as MNS Attorneys for their continued support of our initiatives. Their partnership enables us to walk this journey with more learners and create sustainable impact,” concluded Simisile.
