As 2024 drew to a close, ZS Uniforms paused to reflect on a year of unprecedented impact. Through the Fudumala School Jersey Drive and various community partnerships, we successfully donated 570 school jerseys across 12 schools in Tembisa – our biggest year yet.
What began as a simple idea to keep learners warm during winter has grown into a movement that touches lives, transforms communities, and proves that businesses can be powerful forces for good.
By the Numbers
Corporate Partners Who Made It Possible
None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our corporate partners. Sandvik stepped forward as a major sponsor, demonstrating that global companies can make meaningful local impact. Their contribution funded a significant portion of our jersey procurement, allowing us to reach more schools than ever before.
The Eskom Group Technology Communications team also played a crucial role, not only providing financial support but actively participating in distribution events. Their hands-on approach showed learners and parents that they truly cared about the community's wellbeing.
"Every jersey has a story – a child who can now focus on learning instead of shivering, a parent who can redirect limited funds to food and transport, a teacher who sees full attendance on cold mornings."
Stories Behind the Statistics
While numbers tell part of our story, the real impact lies in individual moments: the shy Grade 2 learner who smiled for the first time when receiving her jersey, the single mother who cried with relief knowing her child would be warm at school, the principal who reported improved attendance on the coldest days of winter.
Teachers across the 12 schools reported noticeable improvements in learner confidence and participation. When children feel properly dressed and comfortable, they're more likely to engage in classroom activities and build positive relationships with peers.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look toward 2025, our goals are ambitious: more jerseys, more schools, more provinces, more impact. The foundation has been laid, the community believes in our mission, and corporate South Africa is responding. Together, we'll ensure that no learner is left out in the cold.
We're already planning expansion into the Eastern Cape and exploring partnerships in KwaZulu-Natal. With each new province we enter, we bring the warmth of community support and the promise of dignified education for all.