The Tomorrowland Doll Collection is a heartwarming initiative that is aimed at raising funds to help Tomorrowland Day Care Centre pay off over R200,000 owed to Buffalo City municipality by November to prevent the beloved Buffalo Flats pre-school from being closed down.
The dolls are designed and handmade by Veronica Van Heerden and Lynne Peffer.
The school’s financial troubles stem from multiple challenges, including governance issues, possible lack of internal financial controls, and deteriorating infrastructure, which contributed to inaccurate municipal billing.
The money raised from the sale of the dolls will be used to cover the costs of the outstanding municipal bill, building renovations and other costs involved in restoring the school.
Each doll is designed with its own unique design and personality. Among them is The Emaan Fatima Doll, created in honour of the brave nine-year-old from Buffalo Flats who was recently kidnapped and, thankfully, reunited with her family a few weeks ago. The doll serves as a symbol of resilience, hope, and the strength of community support.
Emaan’s father, Ghumman, recently spoke at a prayer walk in Buffalo Flats, thanking the community for their support.
“Amidst the darkness, something truly incredible has happened,” he said.
Fundraising co-ordinator Simone Klaasen said the idea was born after she saw Van Heerden’s designs. “We had a social gathering and Veronica shared how she used to sew outfits for Tomorrowland when her children went to school there many years ago. She showed me all her many amazing and beautiful projects and I was captivated by her talent. She can make everything and anything.
“I saw one of her beautiful projects and the dolls resonated with me. That’s when we decided to start the Tomorrowland Doll Collection, a series of dolls every week,” Klaasen said.
“The impact of the Tomorrowland Doll Collection is one of faith, love and kindness. Every little person who buys a doll will be told the story of how they are part of saving a school and helping a community. The Tomorrowland Doll Collection Collector is part of history and restoration. We hope to sell a million dolls. I’m a big dreamer and believer in hope and change,” Klaasen said.
Each doll is sold at R250, with new doll designs being released each week.
The school also has a special R38 debit order initiative.
For more information on the doll collection and other fundraising initiatives, follow the official Tomorrowland Day Centre Facebook page.
