Despite financial constraints growing up, Ameleo Benans’ dedication to his studies, combined with his natural leadership qualities, quickly made him a standout student. Now appointed Grabouw High’s 2025 head boy, Ameleo is not only setting a remarkable example for his peers but also inspiring countless others to reach for their dreams.
Western Cape, South Africa (23 October 2024) – All many of us need is someone who believes in us and our untapped potential. With a little support, guidance, and encouragement, we can overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary things, transforming hardship into triumph.
One young man who can attest to this is Ameleo Benans, who has become a symbol of hope and resilience after being appointed as Head Boy of Grabouw High for the 2025 academic year – a feat that has been made possible by his commitment coupled with the support of SOS Africa who sponsored his education from his very first day of primary school.
Ameleo joined the charity in Grade 1 in 2014 as part of the first group of SOS Africa children to be sponsored in the Western Cape region.
Alongside the other children selected from Agape Creche, his parents couldn’t afford to send him to a good school even though he had huge academic potential.
However, Ameleo’s story took a positive turn when SOS Africa intervened to provide the necessary support. The organisation registered him to attend Grabouw High from Grade 1 until Matric.
“We have provided him with transport, clothing, stationery, nutrition and comprehensive after-school care each afternoon. He and the other children have thrived on our programme,” shares Dr Matt Crowcombe, CEO and Founder of SOS Africa.
Since 2013, the charity has flourished and now has four education centres in the region sponsoring hundreds of children, thanks to the generosity of sponsors from around the world.
Ameleo is the first SOS Africa-sponsored learner to have accomplished such a commendable milestone, which has sent a ripple of excitement throughout the charity’s education programmes across South Africa.
The news was first announced during a school assembly and came as quite a surprise for Ameleo:
“I was very nervous when I heard my name being called out to be Head Boy for next year. I will try my best to fulfil this role and be an example to the rest of my peers and I am very grateful to SOS Africa and the school for always believing in me.”
It was less of a surprise for SOS Africa Grabouw Centre Manager Sharnice Barties, who has seen the leadership potential of Ameleo for some time:
“Ameleo has always been a learner with leadership qualities and is liked and respected by everyone at SOS Africa. We were all so excited when we got the news that he is to be Grabouw High School Head Boy in 2025. We are all so proud of him for being the very first SOS Africa-sponsored child to be given such an honour!”
Amelo’s achievement is a shining example of the transformative power of education and support – something all those in his corner and younger self can be proud of!
Sources: SOS Africa
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