Selborne College grade 10 and 11 pupils are once again working on their life orientation campaign projects.
Each campaign consists of five pupils who choose a sport or interest of their choice, set a date and film a promotional video.
Jody Emslie, Dominic Stegman, Aaron Senekal, Morgan Owen and Zandre September are five grade 10 boys behind the multidisciplinary Sport for Lives campaign that aims to raise funds through a 12-hour multi-sport ultra marathon charity relay, which will include swimming, running, paddling, cycling, and surfing.
The boys are working towards raising funds to assist an Mdantsane school with building their literacy centre. Once they have registered their campaign on the Sports for Lives website, they then share their campaign with others and start raising funds. While the suggested amount is R1,000, the boys can choose their own goal amount.
Emslie, who will be doing his part by running, says he is happy to be raising money for a good cause, despite not being a runner.
“For our ultra marathon charity relay, we aren’t necessarily doing sports that we are good at, which makes it even tougher. It is good for us to take a step back and realise that not everyone has these same opportunities and to do something which will make a difference in the lives of others and in the community.
“We have also realised that doing something small can make a big difference especially if we join forces and work together as a team.
“We also need the support of others in the form of sponsorship as just doing the event on our own isn’t going to help raise the necessary funds,” Emslie said.
Life orientation teacher Stephanie Hartmann said she had seen a positive response from the boys since they first started the project last year.
“I was overwhelmed by how excited and enthusiastic the pupils became. At first, they were apprehensive as it was totally out of their comfort zone and definitely not the usual LO ‘take home’ project, but once the boys started designing their promotional videos and taking part in their event, there was a great mindset change.
“I believe the pupils have learnt how fulfilling it can be to serve one’s community and be part of social good endeavours.
“This year, some pupils have designed posters, pamphlets and T-shirts for their campaign.
“It is thrilling to see them be so innovative and creative,” Hartmann said.
To assist the boys on their mission, check out their video on the Sports for Lives website. Search for the Multi Sports For Lives Ultra Marathon Charity Relay under the Selborne College tab.
