When Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira's sponsor Husqvarna South Africa had the idea for a social development project, the Mtawarira's pre-existing relationship with Sizani School — situated in the heart of Salt Rock — offered a natural synergy, says the trio.

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, "people are worried about two main things," says Kuziva Mtawarira, alluding to some of Sizani's challenges: "getting food on the table and being healthy." 

Kuziva, who has a background in counselling psychology and a shared passion with Tendai for empowering children, had identified Sizani's needs early on. Her comments set the scene for the relationship between the Mtawarira family, project drivers Husqvarna, Sizani School and co-sponsors The Digital Media Collective, Starke Ayres and Future Life Smart Nutrition.

Husqvarna, a leading global brand in outdoor power products for the forestry, commercial and domestic garden and lawn industries, initiated a holistic plan to 'green' the school's outdoor spaces and build a sustainable vegetable garden.

Regional marketing manager for Husqvarna Africa Jenna Robinson says, "Growing vegetable gardens, knowing the importance of access to fresh food for many who receive one meal a day, means that we believe the project benefits are beyond just monetary investment."

Over the years, Sizani has grown from 150 to 900 learners and, according to the organisation, is stretching resources to the limit. This is why Husqvarna has committed to achieving long-term outcomes and will offer ongoing support.

The total value of the sponsorship is almost R120 000, with Husqvarna providing equipment and training time, a generator and other essential items. Collaborative sponsors Future Life is providing over 9 000 meals, while Starke Ayres donated the vegetable garden starter kits and TDMC donated face masks for the scholars.

Principal Ntombenhle July, who has dedicated her career to Sizani School having served there for three decades, notes that Sizani can only succeed with the support of the community.

"This will make such a difference to the students, the educators and the parents of Sizani, and I'd like to thank everyone who has contributed," she says.

She cites access to water as an additional hurdle and one that this project could help solve. "The school still requires many resources and the Mtawarira family are calling on the community for help," she adds.

The event also served as a springboard for the Mtawarira's new endeavour, The Beast Foundation, which will soon be gaining momentum in its efforts to offer physical and mental upliftment to children, using the medium of sport.

Along with Husqvarna, there is a fruitful future ahead to helping those in need, concludes the trio.

To assist with the Sizani School project, individuals are encouraged to contact The Beast Foundation on [email protected].

For more information, visit www.sizaniprimaryschool.co.za or www.husqvarna.co.za.