Cape Town - In a touching ceremony, a grade 10 learner from Excelsior Secondary School in Belhar was honoured with the esteemed Mayor’s Civic Pride Award yesterday.
Cai Damane, 16, was recognised for his outstanding community service through his Happy Helper Edward initiative.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis personally presented the award, which came with a R2 000 cash donation, recognising Damane's commitment to enhancing education and inspiring his peers.
During the ceremony, Damane expressed his surprise and gratitude for the recognition.
“It was very unexpected. I'm very blessed for my support structure, the school, all the communities, and everywhere I’m involved,” Damane said.
“Kids shouldn’t give up on their dreams, if you believe you can achieve it.”
Damane is the founder of Happy Helper Edward, an after-school programme designed to support learners who are facing challenges in their studies.
He started his journey in 2017 by assisting his siblings with their homework, and soon realised the needs of his community were much larger.
From Monday to Friday, the programme offers free help with homework and reading for children.
There is a nominal fee for exam preparation and various school projects.
Damane was nominated by his teacher, Betena Cloete, who highlighted his commitment to enhancing education for his peers, which has significantly impacted the broader community.
Cloete said moments like yesterday reaffirmed her belief that her career is a true calling.
“Cai isn’t just good in the community but in his academics as well, and I saw today that a lot of kids don’t know what he did, but I hope he can inspire them,” she said.
The Civic Pride Awards aims to cultivate a sense of pride in Cape Town while recognising and celebrating individuals who are making a positive difference.
Hill-Lewis said he was amazed when he read Cloete’s letter detailing Damane’s story.
“One of the letters I got was from his class teacher about Cai, and obviously it was wonderful to read about his project and that's why I decided to meet him personally and hand over the prize personally,” he said.
Hill-Lewis said several learners across Cape Town receive similar awards.
“Hopefully as word spreads about these awards as more and more schools participate, it will inspire many young people,” Hill-Lewis said.
Damane’s grandmother, Selma Louw, expressed her pride in her grandson, noting that he has become a source of inspiration for many.
“I feel incredibly proud because if I hadn’t taken an active role in the community and continued to pray, he wouldn’t be where he is today,” she said.
Damane said of his project: “The team got big, and we got bigger now. We want to take it further as an organisation to have our own educational institution to not only help the people of Belhar but other areas.”
Cape Argus