Three learners from Meqheleng Primary School in Ficksburg, Free State, made their school proud after receiving the prestigious Pick n Pay Hero Awards.
The learners recognized for their outstanding contributions are Lerato Mokhele, Oratilwe Mavaleliso, and Pheletso Moramotse.
Lerato Mokhele, a Grade 7 learner, won a R1000 Pick n Pay voucher for her exceptional kindness. She identified a fellow student in need of a school uniform and selflessly used her own pocket money to purchase a pair of socks and a shirt. Her thoughtful gesture significantly impacted the student’s confidence, enabling them to participate fully in school.
In Grade 5, Oratilwe Mavaleliso was also awarded a R2000 Pick n Pay voucher for her initiative in founding the LK DOWN CLEANING GROUP, a project where learners clean their school environment three times a week. She took the initiative to request outdoor dustbins from her principal to curb littering. Additionally, as part of the Junior Land Care Programme, Oratilwe has been learning effective land management and believes in the strength of community and uplifting one another.
Pheletso Moramotse, also in Grade 7, received a R2000 Pick n Pay voucher for her dedication to gardening. Inspired by the Junior Land Care Programme, she plays an active role in her school garden by watering plants and caring for the crops. Her commitment was acknowledged by the school’s general worker, who commended her for gathering seeds from local farmers to benefit her school.
The Pick n Pay Hero Awards celebrate learners who positively impact their communities despite facing challenges. Launched 15 years ago, the awards aim to cultivate self-awareness and social responsibility among students, aligning with Pick n Pay’s belief in the principle that ‘doing good is good business.’
This year, a total of nineteen young learners from across the country received recognition in the annual Pick n Pay Hero Awards, sharing R35,000 in vouchers and receiving a large Hero certificate for their commendable actions.
“Watching these learners overcome personal challenges with optimism, excellence, and courage is a lesson to us all. The winning learners are celebrated in their communities, which is the primary goal of the Hero Awards—to inspire communities,” said Vaughan Pierce, Executive for ESG at Pick n Pay.
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