Shawn “Denzel” Chirunga is sewing his way through a Law Degree at the University of Johannesburg by selling dog and cat beds.
Bryanston, South Africa (05 July 2022) – Shawn “Denzel” Chirunga was taught to sew by his granny when he was very young. The skill is now helping to pay his way through law school, keep a roof over his head and enable him to give back to animals in need.
Bee Dodds shared his story on her Facebook in the hopes of getting a few new clients for his pet bed and blanket business. She explained that his sewing skills enabled him to earn an income while doing good.
“Denzel is a wonderful young man who is currently enrolled at UJ and is working hard to put himself through law school.
The money he makes goes towards his varsity fees as well as the room he rents. His grandmother taught him to sew and he makes these beautiful, thick dog blankets in a variety of patterns. Not only that but for every blanket or bed sold he is donating R50 to PETS JHB – Pet Empowerment in Townships.”
PETS (Pet Empowerment in Townships) strives to empower animals in townships and poor communities. The team works with the community to improve the lives of these disadvantaged animals by giving them daily meals, warm shelters, regular vaccinations, sterilisations and vet care in emergencies. They also rehome those ones that are unwanted, unloved or lost.
Denzel’s contributions can go a long way in helping, and Bee goes on to explain that even if you do not have a dog to purchase a blanket or bed for, you can have one donated to the organisation on your behalf.
“Even if you don’t have a pet you can purchase one to donate towards township dogs in need.
They are machine washable, well made and really thick.
The blankets are available in small 90cm x 75cm (cats and miniature dogs);
medium 140cm x 90cm (suitable for dog up to beagle or border collie size) or large 146cm x 184cm (medium to extra large dogs).His prices are as follows:
- Large with Shweshwe R450
- Large with fleece only R400
- Medium with Shweshwe sell for R350
- Medium with fleece only are R300
- Small blankets with Shweshwe are R200
- Small blankets with fleece only are R150
He also makes a variety of dog and cat beds that can be customized with material of your choosing (Denim, fleece, Shweshwe or a combo) ranging from R400 – R1000 depending on the size of bed. The beds have zips so the covers are machine washable.
If you would like to support him and township animals at the same time please WhatsApp him your order and you can collect it from
Happy Tails Doggy Daycare Bryanston. His number is 083 943 2659.”
We love sharing stories like this, where people use their incredible skills to not only uplift themselves but those around them too. In this case, Denzel uplifts the animals that need it most.