Survé Philanthropies and Soong Ching Ling Foundation Inspire 500 Girls at Phoenix High School for Women's Day

IOL News

2 days ago

Celebrating Women's Day, Survé Philanthropies and the Soong Ching Ling Foundation inspired 520 girls at Phoenix High School, providing them with essential tools and gifts to navigate life's challenges.
Image: Independent Newspapers
In a powerful celebration of Women's Day, Survé Philanthropies, in partnership with the Soong Ching Ling Foundation, visited Phoenix High School in Manenberg on Monday, delivering a message of empowerment, hope, and opportunity to 520 female students.
The initiative, rooted in the belief that education and inspiration can transform lives, aimed to equip the young women with not only essential items but also the tools to navigate life's challenges with confidence and determination.
Addressing the packed school hall, South African free-diving champion and founder of I AM WATER Foundation, Hanli Prinsloo shared her journey with the learners. She spoke candidly about the challenges she overcame and encouraged the girls to hold onto their dreams, remain focused, and believe in their ability to shape their futures.
Each learner received a gift pack filled with practical goodies they need for school and personal care – an act that drew smiles, laughter, and heartfelt thanks from the students. In a touching gesture, the female teachers of Phoenix High were also honoured with special gifts in recognition of their dedication to shaping the next generation.
The day's programme was more than a gift-giving exercise; it was an exchange of values and visions. In a community where socio-economic challenges often overshadow opportunity, the event served as a reminder that there are people and organisations committed to investing in the future of young women.
For many of the learners, this was the first time they had attended such a large-scale Women's Day programme, and the excitement was palpable.
Survé Philanthropies has long championed initiatives that advance education, empowerment, and equality, particularly among disadvantaged communities. Today's event was another step in its ongoing mission to create a more inclusive and opportunity-rich future for South Africa's youth.
Guided by the legacy of Soong Ching Ling, a beloved figure known for her deep commitment to humanity, the SA Soong Ching Ling Foundation works to uplift vulnerable women and children, often through heartfelt donations to schools, orphanages, and community shelters.
Through the I AM WATER Foundation, Hanli creates transformative experiences for underserved youth – inviting them to explore, respect, and fall in love with the ocean. She reminds us that protecting our planet begins with feeling deeply connected to it and continues to inspire a generation of ocean guardians, one deep breath at a time.
As the learners filed out of the hall, chatting and comparing their gifts, the energy was unmistakable – a mix of gratitude, inspiration, and possibility. In the heart of Manenberg, for at least one day, the focus was not on the challenges, but on the promise of what these young women can achieve.