The Shimuzic Foundation donates 3 000 pairs of school shoes to children in need across Gauteng as the project continues to grow in reach and impact
Tembisa, South Africa (15 January 2026) – Ashley “Shimza” Raphala continues to prove that his impact stretches far beyond the music stage, using his influence to bring practical support to communities that need it most. With schools reopening, many families worry about providing essentials for their bundle of joys. Through the Shimuzic Foundation, the acclaimed DJ and philanthropist recently led the donation of 3 000 pairs of school shoes to vulnerable children across Gauteng.
The Hopeful Soles handover took place on 13 January 2026 at the Rabasotho Community Centre in Tembisa, marking another milestone for an initiative that has grown steadily since its inception. This year’s drive reached 52 schools and children’s homes, benefiting learners from 33 children’s homes in Tembisa, nine schools in Soweto and ten schools in Mamelodi. The focus was on supporting orphans and vulnerable children as they prepared for the start of the academic year.
The initiative blended music, culture and social impact. The event has become a key pillar in sustaining the foundation’s community work, allowing each year’s reach to extend further than the last.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Shimza highlighted that Hopeful Soles goes beyond the simple act of giving.
“Hopeful Soles is about more than just school shoes. It’s about restoring dignity and giving children the confidence to walk into their classrooms feeling equal and prepared. Every year we try to do more, because the need is growing, and so is our responsibility to respond.”
Now it’s firmly established as an annual programme, the school shoe drive reflects Shimza’s long-term commitment to meaningful, hands-on support, particularly within and around his hometown of Tembisa.
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