Candice Pugin Brings Life-Changing Eyecare to Children in Need

Photo Credit: Supplied by Faye Curtis

Seven children once struggling silently at the back of a classroom have received vital eye care, thanks to the compassionate vision of Mrs Curve South Africa finalist Candice Pugin.

Durban, South Africa (29 October 2026) – Children once struggling to see the board in the classroom and read their homework have now stepped into clearer futures. As part of her heartfelt efforts to give back to her community, Mrs Curve South Africa pageant finalist Candice Pugin chose to partner with the Lungisani Indlela (LI) non-profit organisation to make a lasting difference in young learners’ lives.

The children in need of an eye test were identified by LI’s Youth Workers, who take care of the needs of the learners in the Learner Support Programme. Because of their close relationships with the schools LI work with, they were uniquely positioned to spot the quiet struggles of those who might otherwise have slipped through the cracks.

The Literacy Group volunteers, who mentor another wonderful circle of children on Wednesday afternoons, also stepped forward to help identify learners in need of this intervention.

Entirely organised by Candice, 10 learners were each thoroughly and lovingly checked by Neervani at Umhlanga Optometrists. Five of them are now looking forward to a much brighter future, as they are being blessed with custom glasses, while two have been referred for specialised hospital care.

“It turned out that one of the children has a cataract, another has possible nerve palsy, and they have been referred to local government hospitals. One of the other young boys has a follow-up with the wonderful and very generous optometrist, Neervani, this Saturday for further treatment,” shares Faye Curtis, who heads LI’s Management.

The day was also about creating beautiful memories and giving the children an experience beyond their everyday environment. They got to visit the Umhlanga Fire Station and were also treated to a nourishing meal at The Flying Chick, ensuring that the outing included not only learning and exploration, but also an opportunity to share a meal and enjoy time together.

This is the second time LI has been blessed as a beneficiary of the pageant.

“This allows us to also work together with the finalists and change lives, over and above the money received. All of the finalists are required to raise funds for charity. Candice organised the visit to the optometrists, the lunch treat, the visit to the Umhlanga Fire Station as well as transport,” Faye tells us.

As a finalist in Mrs Curve’ South Africa 2026, Candice says the experience has taught her that the true value of this journey lies not only in the opportunities it creates for herself, but in the difference she can make in the lives of others.

“Being part of a platform that supports Lungisani Indlela Children’s Village has strengthened my commitment to serving with purpose and creating meaningful opportunities for the children in our communities,” Candice tells us.

The inspiration behind this particular initiative came from the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to see, learn and dream without unnecessary barriers standing in their way.

“Education is fundamental to a child’s future, yet we sometimes overlook how greatly a child’s eyesight can influence their ability to learn and thrive. This inspired me to arrange an eye-care outing for the children where their eyes could be tested and their needs identified.”

“The assessments revealed that some of the children required spectacles, highlighting just how important access to essential eye care can be in supporting their educational journey and overall development,” Candice says, who believes making a difference does not always require grand gestures, but begins with recognising a need, bringing the right people together and taking that first step towards finding a solution.

Through the gift of vital eye care, these young learners have been given more than just glasses; they have been handed the clarity to read their books, the confidence to engage with their lessons, and a newly unlocked world of possibility.